Foundation Waterproofing
For years, Drainage and Waterproofing Solutions, LLC has provided homeowners with the peace of mind and protection of foundation waterproofing. After all, the foundation is the most important part of your new home or existing home’s structure. If your foundation has problems, you can expect to pay a fortune for repair. In most cases, homeowners only notice such costly problems after floors slant, walls crack and the roof develops leaks. Or maybe you are noticing mold and mildew build-up because of ongoing moisture. For these reasons, foundation waterproofing is more than just ensuring water does not come in your basement.
If you are already experiencing water leakage or seepage, you are in the right place. Drainage and Waterproofing Solutions of Raleigh, North Carolina can help you through foundation waterproofing to keep your basement dry. After all, moisture problems related to the foundation can cause more than just structural damage. These issues also cause health problems that affect your whole family, particularly your loved ones with respiratory and allergy problems. Dampness can ruin your personal possessions, too.
What is Foundation Waterproofing?
Foundation waterproofing is a process of using proven methods, approaches and products to permanently prevent water intrusion in your home. These projects typically require several methods applied to work together toward the same purpose.
Determining the right approaches for your property requires inspection of your house and its foundation. There is no one sure way to waterproof every new or existing home. Accurate estimation requires close inspection by one of Drainage and Waterproofing Solutions’ professionals. If you receive an estimate from a contractor who has not seen your home and inspected it for this purpose, you should be wary of the quality of that service.
Why Foundation Waterproofing Matters
One of the most damaging elements for your home is water. Water on its own can breech even the tiniest of crevices in or near a foundation and damage your entire home’s structure before you even suspect a problem. Fixing a foundation problem is also one of the most costly investments in your home, one requiring expensive excavation and other services.
Water damages your foundation in several ways. First, wet soil around the foundation can lose its strength. This causes the foundation to shift and crack. Telltale signs of a shifting foundation often include doors and windows that no longer shut properly. Or, your floor develops creaks and squeaks or a noticeable downward slope. Your walls can crack as they settle with the foundation’s movement.
Foundation Mold Problem
Mold problems can also develop because of your foundation problems. These wreak havoc on your health by causing breathing problems, headaches, depression, aches, pains, memory loss and other issues.
Foundations are constructed using reinforced concrete. Although concrete appears solid, it is actually not waterproof on its own. Concrete also develops cracks. Even when water itself cannot get through the foundation, vapor and moisture still gets past this barrier.
Foundation waterproofing is the most effective method of keeping water, vapor and moisture out of your home. Using a written plan, your Drainage and Waterproofing Solutions experts apply their expert knowledge and best practices to waterproof your foundation, basement and crawl spaces.
Methods Often Used as Part of Foundation Waterproofing
To waterproof your home, our experts use multiple methods and approaches tailored to your specific needs, such as:
Dampproofing
Dampproofing is not technically a foundation waterproofing method. But this service involves the application of an asphalt-based coating to the outside of your foundation. The coating is sprayed or brushed onto the foundation walls to keep soil moisture from entering the basement. Your home’s builder should apply this coating during any North Carolina house construction.
Sealing and Repair of Water Entry Points
An important step to waterproof your foundation, and thus your basement, is the sealing and repair of areas where water enters through your foundation. For example, we seal and repair cracks in your basement walls. We often pair this approach with other methods like interior or exterior drainage systems.
Exterior Drainage Systems
Is it critical to not allow water to pool around or under your foundation. Through prevention of this pooling, you can minimize the opportunities for water or moisture to enter the foundation walls into your basement. Exterior drainage systems often require excavation to the foundation footer. There, we install or replace drainage pipes that make up a french drain. We also sometimes apply a waterproof membrane to your foundation walls as another water and moisture barrier.
Interior Drainage Systems
If you experience standing water in your basement, an interior drainage system can effectively solve this problem. Also, a perimeter drain and sump pump system is one of the most common ways to keep your basement dry. It is also one of the least problematic methods to extract water, in terms of disruption to your existing foundation.
For construction of your interior drainage system, our pros use a jackhammer to create a pathway for drainage piping installation. This pipeline routes water that comes into your basement to a sump pump system. The pump permanently removes the water. To keep the pump working during electrical power outages, we recommend installation of a sump pump with backup battery power.
Contact Us for Your Free Foundation Waterproofing Cost Estimate and Plan
Drainage and Waterproofing Solutions looks forward to helping Raleigh area homeowners enjoy a waterproof foundation and moisture-free home. We welcome people from throughout the Raleigh area who wish to request an estimate for our services. For potential customers within a 60-mile radius of Raleigh, we provide this estimate and a written foundation waterproofing plan for free. Call us today at (919) 508-7503.
Frequently Asked Questions about Foundation Waterproofing
What is foundation waterproofing and why is it essential?
Foundation waterproofing involves applying protective measures to prevent water from penetrating the foundation of a building. It is essential to prevent structural damage, mold growth, and other moisture-related issues that can compromise the integrity of your home.
What are the different methods of foundation waterproofing?
Foundation waterproofing methods include exterior waterproofing (applying waterproof membranes and coatings), interior waterproofing (using sealants and drainage systems), and installing proper drainage solutions such as French drains and sump pumps to manage water flow.
How do I know if my foundation needs waterproofing?
Signs that your foundation may need waterproofing include visible cracks in the foundation, damp or wet walls in the basement, mold or mildew growth, musty odors, and water pooling around the base of your home.
How long does foundation waterproofing last?
The longevity of foundation waterproofing depends on the quality of the materials used and the expertise of the installation. High-quality waterproofing systems can last for several decades with proper maintenance.
Can foundation waterproofing be done on an existing home?
Yes, foundation waterproofing can be applied to both new constructions and existing homes. Various techniques are available to address water intrusion issues effectively in existing structures.
What is the cost of foundation waterproofing?
The cost of foundation waterproofing can vary depending on the size of the foundation, the methods used, and the extent of the water intrusion issues. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $3,000 and $15,000. It is best to get a detailed estimate from a professional.
How long does the foundation waterproofing process take?
The duration of the foundation waterproofing process depends on the scope of the project. Simple interior waterproofing projects can take a few days, while more extensive exterior waterproofing efforts can take one to two weeks.
What maintenance is required after foundation waterproofing?
Regular maintenance after foundation waterproofing includes inspecting for new cracks, ensuring that drainage systems are functioning properly, and keeping gutters and downspouts clear. Periodic professional inspections can help maintain the effectiveness of the waterproofing system.
Can I waterproof my foundation myself?
While there are DIY waterproofing products available, professional waterproofing is recommended for the best results. Professionals have the expertise to identify the source of the problem and use the most effective methods and materials to ensure long-term protection.
What are the risks of not waterproofing my foundation?
Not waterproofing your foundation can lead to several issues, including structural damage, mold growth, pest infestations, and health problems due to poor air quality. These problems can result in costly repairs and negatively impact your home’s value.
How does exterior foundation waterproofing work?
Exterior foundation waterproofing involves excavating the soil around the foundation, cleaning the surface, and applying a waterproof membrane or coating to prevent water penetration. Additional drainage solutions like French drains may also be installed to manage water flow.
Can foundation waterproofing help with basement flooding?
Yes, foundation waterproofing can significantly reduce or eliminate basement flooding by preventing water from entering the foundation and redirecting it away from the home. This helps maintain a dry and safe basement environment.
What types of coatings are used in foundation waterproofing?
Common coatings used in foundation waterproofing include asphalt-based waterproofing coatings, polymer-modified asphalt, and liquid rubber coatings. These materials provide a durable and flexible barrier to prevent water intrusion.
Does foundation waterproofing prevent all types of water damage?
While foundation waterproofing is highly effective in preventing water intrusion and related damage, it is essential to combine it with proper drainage solutions and regular maintenance to address all potential sources of water damage comprehensively.