How to Waterproof Effectively After Basement Lowering

How to Waterproof Effectively After Basement Lowering: Expert Tips

Basement lowering is one of the best practices to add valuable space to your home. You get extra living space, where you can create anything you love, whether it’s a gym, wine cellar, or any other space. But here’s a problem. The more you dig deeper, the more you expose your foundation to water intrusion risks.

At Rock Bottom Underpinning, we understand that lowering your basement is essential, but it’s not fully usable until it’s waterproofed. Protecting it against moisture is crucial to ensure the foundation remains strong, and your basement stays dry and fresh. Here are some expert tips to keep your basement waterproofed.

Why Basement Lowering Increases the Risk of Moisture Problems?

Before knowing some tips, understanding the core problem is important. You should understand why basement lowering increases the need for waterproofing.

  • When lowering the basement, you have to excavate deeper, where the walls are exposed to the hydrostatic pressure that can increase the pressure on both the walls and the floor. This forces water to seep through the tiny gaps, causing water leakage.
  • If your foundation was already waterproofed, excavation could damage the existing waterproofing layers. Therefore, you may need to have it waterproofed again.
  • Removing soil when altering the foundation can lead to micro cracks that allow water to seep through the wall.

These are some of the most common reasons why your basement gets prone to moisture. Therefore, you must get it waterproofed before the damage worsens.

Waterproofing Tips to Keep Your Basement Dry and Fresh

Interior Basement Waterproofing Techniques

Interior basement waterproofing systems, including drainage and other methods, are key components that can be used to waterproof your basement. Internal waterproofing methods are crucial for preventing your basement from flooding and reducing hydrostatic pressure on foundation walls.

Sump Pump Installation

One of the most basic and effective methods of waterproofing, sump pumps work in coordination with drainage systems by collecting excess water and then pumping it outside the home. If you live in a flood-prone area or have a high water table, you can use this method for your basement.

French Drain Systems

French drain systems are installed alongside the perimeter of the basement to collect water seepage and direct it to the sump pump. This helps in efficiently managing water intrusion, keeping your basement dry.

Moisture Barrier Coating

Another method for waterproofing the basement from inside is to apply sealants and coatings to the interior of the wall. These coatings create a barrier that blocks moisture from entering the basement. These are often a DIY option that can be used in places with fewer moisture issues. Moisture barrier coatings are cost-effective, easy to apply and minimally disruptive.

Exterior Basement Waterproofing Methods

Exterior waterproofing is one of the most effective and durable solutions for keeping water out of your home. External waterproofing methods will keep water outside your foundation, ensuring your basement remains usable and intact.

Excavation and Sealing

The most common method of exterior waterproofing involves excavating around the foundation to apply waterproof membranes to the exterior walls.

The membranes are the barriers that prevent groundwater from entering the basement. To minimize the risk of leaks and long-term damage, consider this method. At Rock Bottom Underpinning, we offer a range of underpinning methods, including excavation and sealing.

Weeping Tile Installation

Another key method of exterior waterproofing is the installation of weeping tiles. These tiles are installed around the foundation to direct water away from the basement. These work in coordination with a designated drainage system, directing water from the basement to the system. To decide whether to waterproof your basement from the inside or the outside, check out the helpful article from Rock Bottom Underpinning

Foundation Crack Repair

Cracks in the foundation can compromise both the structural integrity of a home and its resistance to water infiltration. Rock Bottom Underpinning identifies these cracks and uses advanced sealants to close them effectively.

Crack sealing prevents water from seeping into the basement while preserving the foundation’s strength. For cases where the damage is more severe, structural reinforcement is employed. This involves underpinning techniques that stabilize and strengthen the foundation, ensuring that the home remains safe and secure while maintaining proper waterproofing.

Drainage Solutions

Effective basement waterproofing also requires proper management of water around the home. At Rock Bottom Underpinning, we address this through sewer and drain services. They inspect and repair clogged or damaged drain systems and can install backwater valves to prevent sewage from backing up into the basement. These solutions ensure that water flows away from the foundation efficiently, reducing the risk of flooding and water damage.

Why Should I Waterproof My Basement?

If you’re thinking, Why is waterproofing your basement essential, here are some of the common reasons why:

Reduce Water Damage

When water seeps through the walls of your foundation, it can cause damage to the furniture and even the foundation of your basement. But waterproofing can keep your walls, floors and belongings safe from leaks, flooding, and standing water.

Lessen Mould and Mildew

Excess moisture in your basement can cause this mould and mildew. Waterproofing your basement will help reduce the growth of harmful mold and mildew.

Better Air Quality

Humidity levels should be low to maintain a healthier and fresher environment. So any waterproofing method will help keep the basement dry, improving air quality.

Safeguard Structural Integrity

The structural integrity of a home is valuable. This is what keeps your home stronger and increases its value. However, if water continues to seep through your basement, it may compromise the structural integrity of your home.

Rock Bottom Underpinning: Experts in Basement Waterproofing and Excavation

Every homeowner deserves a dry basement that’s safe for living or can be converted into a valuable space. With the right waterproofing solution for your basement, you can reduce water damage, improve air quality, and increase your home value.

Rock Bottom Underpinning is one of the best waterproofing and excavation companies that can help you keep your basement intact. With over 35 years of experience in the field, our trusted professionals will deliver superior results that surpass your expectations. Don’t wait for small problems to turn into costly repairs, get in touch with us now to repair your leaking basement.