Basement Waterproofing Problems and what to do about Them

stock-photo-4258890-interior-abstractSpring for Northeast Ohio has finally arrived.  The days are longer and the sun is brighter.  Snow has gone and now is the chance for you to go and check your basement and see if you have any water or damp walls damage that snow left behind.  Even though basement waterproofing can be done during the winter months, many homeowners wait till the spring to make major repairs to their home, including finishing a basement or fixing any leaks or issues they might have.  With the huge accumulation of snow we had this year, if you have any seepage that got into your basement, you will be able to see the damage or the problem to fix.  Water damage can be a serious problem if left unattended, we at Pioneer Basement Solutions have a long history in the area, and have a long list of satisfied customers.  Call us and see what we can do for you.


Top 5 Basement Waterproofing Problems

With spring right around the corner and the potential for all that melting snow to find its way into your basement, it’s time to do a serious evaluation. Protecting your family and belongings from catastrophic loss due to basement flooding can be as simple as knowing what to look for. There are a few common problem areas that you can check and take corrective action before major disaster strikes. Fortunately, the waterproofing professionals at Royal Work Corp. can provide both the knowledge and the skills needed to help you avoid costly repairs. The time you spend now can save you thousands of dollars later.

1. Foundation wall cracks

Cracks can be caused by natural foundation settling and may start out small. Winter can wreak havoc with freezes and thaws to expand those cracks sufficiently to allow water penetration. In addition, groundwater causes hydrostatic pressure that can lead to cracking or gaps. Small or large, cracks that show discoloration or have water leaking through them should be checked out immediately by a professional. There are several courses of action that can be taken to prevent more serious issues if done early.


 Everything You Wanted to Know About Waterproofing Membranes

With basement game rooms, exercise areas and “man caves” increasing in popularity, it’s more important than ever for homeowners to protect their valuables from water infiltration and flooding. Understanding the pros and cons of interior and exterior basementwaterproofing membranes can help in determining what type will work best for your application. Whether you’re currently experiencing problems or just researching your options, visit royalwork.ca for expert advice and a listing of professional services

Unfortunately, unless your home was constructed within the last 10 years, it’s likely that little thought was given to protecting the concrete foundation walls. In recent years, manufacturers have created a multitude of new waterproofing products to repair aging systems and block moisture seepage.

Bituminous Waterproofing Membrane

This most common exterior membrane is made of a petroleum-based asphalt material. It is also used for roofing and is extremely resistant to moisture penetration. Asphaltic waterproofing comes in a liquid emulsion form and can be applied using a roller and trowel. It is very sticky and holds well to vertical concrete surfaces. Often a fiberglass webbing material is used between applications to reinforce it further. A rubberized asphalt is also available and can be applied hot or cold. Adjustments to viscosity allow it to be applied with a trowel, roller or sprayer. Bitumen sheets are also available to cover seams.offered.


Insurance Department offers tips to cut flood premiums

March 23–With National Flood Awareness Week having just passed last week, thePennsylvania Insurance Department urged property owners to consider flood insurance as well as provided tips on what they can do to cut premiums.

“Melting snow, combined with spring rains, inadequate drainage, excessive runoff, or dam failure can cause major damage, so I recommend homeowners and business owners talk about flood coverage with their insurance professional as soon as possible,” Acting Insurance Commissioner Teresa Miller said. “Standard homeowner policies do not include coverage for flood damage, and there is a 30-day waiting period before a policy becomes effective. The sooner you get coverage the better.”

According to the department, figures from the Federal Emergency Management Agency show Pennsylvania residents filed nearly 18,000 flood insurance claims from 2006 to 2014, and received more than $551 million in payments. Claims were filed from every county except Fulton.

The department said property owners can take precautions to lower the chance of suffering major flood damage. Some precautions are:

* Install a sump pump and make sure it is working; install a battery-operated backup in case of a power failure.


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