Homes in the North part of the country deal with a lot of weather changes throughout the years. From rain and snow and everything in between, the roofs and basements of our homes have to withstand much wear and tear due to weather.
Water damage due to improper grading or drainage systems can play havoc with the basement of your home and can cause the foundation to suffer structural damages that cannot be visible right away.
If you own a home and can see water damage in the basement, chances are the water problems have been there for longer than you suspect. The structural damage to the foundation may not be there yet, and that is one of the main reasons to call a professional to take care of this issue.
There are different methods to deal with a wet basement. Depending on what your basement problem is, there are two types of basement waterproofing options for you.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing Systems
What are the basement waterproofing systems that are commonly used to treat and solve your waterproofing problems?
If your contractor has advised having an exterior waterproofing done, then that requires:
- a full excavation
- A waterproof coating that is applied to seal the cracks and pores of the foundation
- A waterproof membrane that is installed after the seal is applied
If a contractor has advised you that an interior basement system can solve your problem then the solutions are a bit different and the cost can be a lot smaller than a full excavation.
Interior Basement Waterproofing System
- A pump system can be a recommendation you will get from a professional
- An Interior drain installed
When calling a contractor and asking for a free consultation, make sure you understand the problem and the solutions they are giving you. Research their findings with your own findings and consult at least three different contractors before making a decision. A good, reputable firm will stand by their work and will offer you time to decide and consult with your spouse. DO NOT sign anything right away, and make sure you research the company or contractor of your choice before agreeing to any work or payment exchange. A lower price does not mean better work. Compare, research, and shop before signing a contract.
