LEAKING, DAMP, COLD, MOULDY, MUSTY, WET, CRACKED, SHIFTED, BOWED, STRUCTURE PROBLEMS?
HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BASEMENT?
DO YOU HAVE A LEAKING FOUNDATION OR A LEAKING BASEMENT?
Most people don't realize that their house was not properly waterproofed (or damp proofed) when it was built. The evolution in foundations coatings has exploded in the last few years to make foundation damp proofing a permanent investment. Unlike coatings from years ago you can now do it rite the first time. Some people are aware of damages from water infiltration (mold, smell, rotten wood or walls, cold/damp feeling) but what most people don't realize is that water infiltration can cause extensive structural damage from water freezing and cracking foundation walls.
7 Simple Steps to Foundation waterproofing
1.Foundation excavation
This is the largest part of the foundation waterproofing. Most of the excavation can be done using a mini excavator capable of digging all the way down to the footings. Some hand digging will be required around gas and other supply lines (ALWAYS CALL BEFORE YOU DIG). When the foundation is completely exposed use a strong pressure washer will clean off the foundation wall.
2.Inspection and repair
Once the foundation is completely exposed and clean it is time to inspect it for damage. All minor cracks need to be addressed and damage repaired. Don't worry if this part frightens you, we have Red Seal Masons we can refer to take care of any large problems. We are also your preferred Ottawa are dealer for Rhino Carbon Fiber Products and can repair cracks, inject concrete and fix most structure problems with minimal cost.
3.Waterproofing coating or membrane
The next Step is a waterproofing membrane. There are many types and we have used a few different styles. Our favorite product is a spray on Asphalt free high elastic coating. We do believe that this is the part of the job NOT to spare any expense. Most foundation companies will use a cheap product to save themselves money and increase profit. Tars, peel and stick membranes (blueskin) and other coatings just don't stand up to out freeze thaw cycles in a canadian winter.
This coating can be applied by a do it yourselfer or we can come apply it for you. We recommend an approved applicator apply this coating to make sure it is done rite! We can also inspect your foundation BEFORE anything covers up the defects.
4.Protective coating
Some contractors use this as their only defense to foundation leakage. A dimple membrane is not meant to be a waterproof coating. It is meant to act as a drainage pathway to your weeping tile and will channel water away from your foundation. It also acts as a shield to protect you waterproof coating from any damage caused by backfilling
5.Weeping tile and drainage
We always recommend replacing your weeping tile. This is a very inexpensive hollow pipe that is placed around the footing to collect all the water. It will then channel the water to a city drain, french drain or sump pump pit to get the water away from your foundation. It is best practice to also have a drain located in every window well to ensure they dont collect water.
6.Back Filling
We always recommend a minimum of 24” of clear drainage stone be placed over the weeping tile. This will alow the water to flow into the cloth wrapped pipe and be carried away. After the stone is it best to backfill with clean soil.
7.Grading
Grading is a step all by itself because it is an important step that often gets overlooked. The best way to keep a basement or foundation dry is to keep the water away from it. This is easily done by sloping the soil away from the foundation allowing water to run away from the foundation.
