Exterior Basement Waterproofing

Basements are prone to flooding and water damage, owing to the presence of ground water. Moisture and dampness in the basement can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. This can lead to rotting of the foundation which can weaken the entire structure of the edifice. Waterproofing a basement becomes imperative, if you wish to alleviate the problems caused due to groundwater. However, most of the homeowners do not know the correct methods of basement waterproofing. As a result, they are often conned by contractors, who install substandard waterproofing equipments. Exterior basement waterproofing system is the best option of preventing water damage in basement.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing Facts
Home owners often face a dilemma of whether to go for exterior or interior basement waterproofing. Many homeowners actually get only damp-proofing, even though they might have paid for waterproofing. Exterior basement waterproofing is often compared to interior waterproofing, which seals the entry of water from the inside of the basement. Exterior waterproofing, on the other hand prevents the entry of the water from the outside and also mitigates the hydraulic forces exerted by the groundwater on the walls of the basement. There are many exterior basement waterproofing myths propagated by those who advocate the use of interior waterproofing. However, the fact remains that exterior basement waterproofing provides much better protection to the basement. Though, interior waterproofing can prevent the water seepage in basement, it does little to prevent the inside of the walls from getting damaged. This can ruin your wall paint as well as insulation. Exterior basement waterproofing takes care of the inside of the walls by preventing water seepage.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing Requirements
Exterior basement waterproofing involves excavating earth from around the foundation of the house. Exterior basement waterproofing products are either spray applied or installed in sheets. This is where most subcontractors deceive unsuspecting homeowners. They apply concrete or unmodified asphalt with other damp-proofing masonry products. These products become brittle when they dry. They are not efficient in sealing the cracks or flaws in the structure, which eventually allows water seepage. Some of the products are tar based and are equally ineffective in blocking water. Tar loses its elasticity after a few days and gives way to water through cracks and crevices. Exterior basement waterproofing products on the other hand are compounds of modified asphalt or urethanes. Some of these products are clay based while the others are rubber based. They have self sealing properties and generally do not harden upon curing. As mentioned above, the groundwater exerts an enormous pressure on the walls of the basement. If this pressure is not taken care of, it may lead to buckling of basement walls. To overcome this problem, a drainage system is installed which transports this water away from the house. Alternatively, a pump can also be installed for the same purpose.
Advantages of Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Exterior basement waterproofing protects your walls and paint from water damage. It prevents your basement flooring from getting flooded. It also inhibits the growth of mold and mildew by alleviating the moisture and dampness in the basement. It protects your possessions in the basement and also increases the usable space. A moisture free basement has more functionality than a damp, mildew infested basement. Waterproofing your basement also helps to keep your foundation intact and secure the entire structure. Thus, it is very important to get exterior basement waterproofing done. Read more on basement waterproofing cost.
Exterior basement waterproofing has several benefits over other waterproofing systems. If you decide to go for this system, attempt a thorough check upon the credentials of the subcontractor before assigning the contract.