Are there crevices in your home’s foundation, sinking fireplaces or cracks in your basement floor? Often these signs indicate that the foundation has settled, although at times such signs indicate the ground has shifted beneath the home’s foundation. Common causes are the growth of tree roots or expansion and contraction of the soil during times of excessively wet weather or during periods of drought. If you suspect a problem with your home’s foundation, call for Basement Waterproofing in Lancaster.
There are two approaches to basement waterproofing utilized by Keystone Foundation Repair Inc.:
Interior Basement Waterproofing – In poured concrete foundations, cracks and openings around pipes are common entry points for water. These openings are easily filled with epoxy or urethane sealants. The sealant is pressure injected into the openings, working its way to the exterior, effectively cutting off the water’s path. The sealant also prevents mold and mildew growth. When the foundation is constructed of concrete block, an interior drain tile system can capture the water entering through the blocks and redirect it to a sump. Although not technically considered waterproofing, interior drainage systems are a widely accepted technique in mitigating basement water. Waterproofing basement walls using coatings or specialized latex paint is quite effective where condensation is the main source of wetness.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing – The ideal time to waterproof your basement is when it is first poured. The walls are sealed with a waterproof membrane and drain tiles (weep tiles) are placed alongside the footings. In an existing home or building, the foundation must be excavated to expose the footings, allowing waterproof membrane and tiles to be installed. Another process of exterior basement waterproofing is known as a French drain system. French drains are installed around the perimeter of the basement where the concrete floor meets the foundation and connected to drains that direct the water to a sump. When the water in the sump reaches a preset level it is pumped to the outside.
A home’s primary means of support and stability is its foundation. Providing proper maintenance and repairs for your foundation prevents larger problems later on like foundation failure and collapse. When there are cracks and gaps, these are areas where water can enter a basement. Even if your basement is not leaking yet, it is likely to leak soon. Don’t hesitate to take action and contact a Basement Waterproofing in Lancaster contractor today.
