Common problems and wet basement solutions
In a finished basement, the diagnosis starts by identifying the area where water first enters the basement, then searching the exterior for a crack. Our wet basement solutions involve sealing foundation wall cracks in poured concrete foundations. Cracks can be sealed from the interior using our epoxy polyurethane injection process or from the exterior by using our wall-clay process. Both methods are very reliable in preventing further seepage through the crack and into the basement.
Another common basement waterproofing problem is when the source of seepage is at the cove joint. This is often caused by hydrostatic pressure, which occurs when the water table rises after prolonged rain or snow melt. The accumulated weight of water in the ground forces water underneath the footing and up into the basement. The best solution to this type of problem is the installation of a drain tile system, with a sump pump used to discharge the water. The drain tile relieves the hydrostatic pressure by providing an easy path for the water to escape, thus eliminating the water pressure so that the seepage problem goes away. The problem can be addressed from either the interior or exterior.
Foundation waterproofing and grading problems
More often, the diagnosis will show water coming over the top of the foundation, through the mortar joint between the brick that sits atop the foundation wall. This happens because the exterior grade is built up above the top of the foundation wall. We usually recommend that an exterior subsoil membrane be applied to the below grade portion of the wall. It has to cover the wall from the soil and overlap the foundation by about 6 inches. Foundation waterproofing membranes are also very effective for waterproofing brick and stone foundations.
Start with a free consultation
The key to waterproofing your wet basement starts with properly diagnosing the source of the problem. 911 Foundation & Roofing offers a FREE consultation and estimate by a trained and experienced foundation advisor as the first step in foundation waterproofing. If you have a finished basement, or can’t determine the source of your basement seepage, contact our office to schedule a free consultation and estimate. 911 Foundation & Roofing also offers FREE consultation to commercial services for businesses, including vaults, tunnels, parking garages, water treatment plants, swimming pools, retail facilities, banks, schools, churches, government buildings, hospitals and more.
