Basement Waterproofing
Basement waterproofing keeps groundwater and moisture out of your basement. Water usually enters through cracks, joints between the wall and floor, or through porous concrete, and it tends to get worse over time.
Common signs of a wet basement
- Water on the floor after heavy rain or snowmelt
- Damp walls, a musty smell or visible mold
- White, chalky mineral deposits on concrete or block walls
- Peeling paint or bubbling wall coverings
- Cracks in walls or the floor
Common waterproofing approaches
- Interior drainage and sump pump: a drain channel along the footing collects water and a sump pump moves it out.
- Exterior waterproofing: the soil is excavated, the wall is sealed and drainage is added outside.
- Crack injection: individual cracks are sealed, which works best for isolated leaks.
- Grading, gutters and downspouts: directing roof and surface water away from the house often solves or reduces the problem.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Did you find where the water is coming from before recommending a fix?
- Is the warranty in writing, and does it transfer if I sell?
- Does the system include a battery backup for the sump pump?
- Can I see an itemized estimate and a clear scope of work?