Exterior Foundation Waterproofing Techniques

Basement waterproofing is the only solution to keep water from getting into your basement and causing major structural damage, as well as mold, decay, and other moisture-related issues. Interior and/or exterior foundation waterproofing is required when ground water builds up in the soil raising the water table. This process causes hydrostatic pressure to occur and push against the walls and floors of your basement. Unless your basement is properly waterproofed, the water will force its way in through cracks in the foundation walls, openings caused by expansion and contraction of the footing-foundation wall joint and up through the floor cracks.

As foundation waterproofing is necessary anytime a structure is built below or at ground level, which is the vast majority of cases, the industry has developed various foundation waterproofing techniques. Although interior waterproofing can also help solve part of the problems, it cannot prevent by itself severe damage. Exterior foundation waterproofing remains the only method recognized by the International Building Code as adequate for the prevention of wicking and molding of building materials.

Exterior waterproofing of the foundation starts with exposing the foundation by excavating around it down to the footing. The next step consists of cleaning and inspecting the exterior walls for cracks. Finally, the walls are sealed with waterproofing membrane and new weeping tiles are placed at the side of the footing. At this point, professional plumbers will check to see if the drainage is properly connected to the sump or drain for optimum operation. There are several exterior foundation waterproofing techniques and here are some of your options:

• Rubber membrane is a good solution to waterproof your foundation as it is effective and eco-friendly. Rubber membrane is easy to apply and you can spray or paint it on the walls without priming. As an exterior foundation waterproofing method, the rubber membrane maintains sufficient flexibility to deliver good results for many years to come.

• Bentonite is also a popular foundation waterproofing technology as it absorbs water, expands to its full capacity, and seals off cracks and holes at the same time. Sodium bentonite, which is a clay-like substance, is usually encased between two layers of polypropylene fabric and can be applied as panels on your foundation walls. Bentonite also comes in liquid form and can be brushed onto the walls after having repaired any existing cracks. Non toxic and safe to use, bentonite is often the choice of most foundation waterproofing professionals.

• Asphalt membrane – Rubberized asphalt membrane comes in self-adhesive sheets that can be easily fixed onto the walls. It is better to let professionals handle such a task as this type of foundation waterproofing solution gets stuck in place once positioned on the wall and it is impossible to remove. So you have to get it done right the first time.

Waterproofing your basement is one of the best things you can do to protect your home and your family. Ready to get started? Contact ExpressRooter today for more information on exterior waterproofing.