Like most homeowners, you would probably know already some basic information on waterproofing. Waterproofing, of course, is basically making an area impermeable to or unaffected by water.
With today’s needs for more living space, a dry basement can become a very useful area. It can be a recreation room, a rest area, or an extra storeroom.
All these would depend on the quality of your basement. You would want it dry, comfortable and without the musty odor most associated with damp and moisture-laden basements.
Basement waterproofing
By practice, most waterproofing contractors usually create some forms of drainage system in solving a wet basement. Drainage is critical, no doubt, in solving water problems.
However, homeowners should also know the limits of waterproofing. The waterproofing methods (interior and exterior systems) have their own advantages and weaknesses.
Unregulated industry
Interior waterproofing had been criticized due to the unregulated nature of the industry. Many less-than-credible contractors install systems without a thorough knowledge of their actions.
These could have been avoided if the job was done with the sealed system of basement waterproofing. Moisture could have been prevented from re-entering the homes, decrease humidity, and avoid mildew and molds.
Do it yourself
Once your basement leaks, you either call an expensive contractor or do it by yourself. If you have the right materials, do-it-yourself waterproofing can be simple and can save you time and money.
Today, there are several different products to help you in doing your waterproofing job. The following are some of them.
Crystalline waterproofing
For many years, this had been one of the world’s favorites. It is highly effective because it penetrates inside the walls and floors. After some years, the crystals expand and seal it permanently.
Aside from being able to withstand very high pressure, it can be applied to any concrete surface. Application is simply mixing it with water with a brush or a roller.
Basement dry
First, a hole is drilled into the basement floor. Then, a probe is inserted into the hole to detect ground water.
Once found, the probe will suck up the water with its pump. The principle is that when water is removed, there is relief from pressure. Consequently, there would be no more problems with water seeping into any crack or weak spots.
SquidGee dry
This system is for poured concrete and block walls. In block walls, the water is mainly trapped in the block’s holes.
The main procedure is drilling the lowermost block layer where water collects. Drilling drains the water into the SquidGee Dry. There is no need to drill all the blocks.
The process is just as simple in poured walls. However, these walls are solid, unlike the block walls. The technique is to seal the cracks all the way to the “cold joints” (the meeting edge points of the wall and floor). The bottommost is left unsealed, and water is collected with the SquidGee Dry.
Concrete water-proofer
This is the cheapest of the alternatives, although the least reliable. The process is easy but time-consuming (dependent on the number of cracks you have to fill).
Chisel a U-shaped groove along the crack. Remove the debris and fill the groove with fast-setting hydraulic cement. Finally, apply the cement water-proofer, as directed on the product. All in all, waterproofing is not really that hard to do.
One of the major problems of a house and a commercial building is when the walls and floors start to develop cracks because of pressure and weather conditions. Because of humidity and constant exposure to moisture, the construction and the foundation of the building could be compromised. Waterproofing is a good solution.
Another option for safeguarding your home or building’s foundation is by damp proofing. There is a difference between damp proofing and waterproofing.
• Waterproofing can be more expensive, but the effects last for a longer period of time and more environmental-friendly. It is usually rubber-based or made of polymer, silicone or similar materials. Waterproofing could prevent water absorption.
Waterproofing could also prevent ground water into getting inside the building. It could be through a rubber membrane applied to the surface of wall, waterproofing paints and sealants. Aside from that, there are also systems which could pump the water out of the building.
• Damp proofing use tar-based mixture. This would prevent the surface from water and moisture. However, it does not stop water from penetrating but it could definitely slow down the process. There are some damp proofing products which are water based making it more Earth friendly.
Damp proofing could be an inexpensive alternative, however, it could cause more problems in the future. The effects are short-term. Within two-years the effect of damp proofing could wear down and cracks could re-emerge. The walls or floors could become brittle and would easily flake.
A damp proofing specialist would usually do the inspection of the building or house. The specialist would recommend or give instructions on how damp proofing would happen. There are also damp proofing products which could be applied by the home-owner themselves. Usually, damp proofing cellars or basement would require you to get professional help. Above-ground damp proofing could be performed by the owners.
Currently, damp proofing is included in the process of construction. But for buildings that have already been constructed, damp proofing could still be integrated in the structure. A damp proof specialist or company is needed to determine and assess what would be effective for the property.
When choosing between damp proofing and waterproofing, it is important to consider the kind weather or environment where you are located. If you live in an area where heavy downfall frequently occurs, then waterproofing may be a better choice since it could protect the building structure from moisture.
You could even take simple steps to ensure that your house is fully dry. It could be making sure that the drains and gutters are free of clogs, regularly checking roof tiles and the roofing systems. Homes should also be properly ventilated. Condensation could happen which can also cause moisture.
Both damp proofing and waterproofing could cost you, but the money is seriously worth it. Beware of “quick and easy fixes” since they may sacrifice the quality of waterproofing you need. Call the experts and let them do the tasks for you. Damp proofing and waterproofing are solutions. Decide what would work for you and for your property investment.
This website uses cookies that are necessary to its functioning and required to achieve the purposes illustrated in the privacy policy. By accepting this OR scrolling this page OR continuing to browse, you agree to our Privacy Policy