A waterproofing service protects a structure from water damage by preventing water from getting where it can cause damage. It involves sealing cracks, joints, and other vulnerable spots where water can seep through. The following are waterproofing solutions that work best in Beville’s clay soil:
Interior Drainage Systems
Interior drainage systems are installed inside your basement to collect water that seeps through walls or floors. They consist of a perforated drainpipe, a sump pump, and a discharge line. During a waterproofing service, professionals place the perforated drainpipe along the inside edge of the basement floor. This is done in a trench filled with gravel or crushed stone to prevent water from leaking. This pipe collects water that enters the basement and directs it into a sump basin, dug into the lowest part of the basement floor. The sump pump activates when the water reaches a certain level, pumping it out through the discharge line, away from your home’s foundation.
Exterior Drainage Systems
Creating an exterior drainage system involves excavating around your home’s foundation to install pipes and drains in the soil. These pipes redirect water away from your foundation and into a safe area. Exterior drainage systems are comprised of perimeter drain pipes, gutters, downspouts, and French drains.
Waterproofing experts place perimeter drain pipes around the foundation underground to catch water that gathers near your home. French drains are filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that helps water flow away quickly. Gutters and downspouts collect rainwater from your roof and direct it down and away from your house on a slope, so it doesn’t pool.
Foundation Crack Repair
Repairing foundation cracks stops water from seeping into your basement or crawl space. In areas with clay soil, such as Belleville, foundation crack repair involves sealing the cracks with specialized materials that block water and stabilize the structure. In some cases, you may need a pier or anchor installation to support the foundation and stop it from shifting further. These repairs reduce the effects of the soil’s swelling and shrinking and help keep the foundation level and dry. Regular inspections and repairs prevent the cracks from growing over time due to the soil’s natural movement.
Wall Sealants
Waterproofing service providers apply wall sealants to create a protective barrier that prevents moisture from passing through the walls. Clay-based sealants swell when they come into contact with water, filling small gaps and forming a tight barrier. The sealant can stretch and remain sealed even if the foundation shifts slightly.
Crawl Space Encapsulation
Encapsulation means sealing the crawl space walls and floors with a strong vapor barrier. This keeps the crawl space dry and protects the home’s foundation from water damage and wood rot. Crawl space encapsulation in areas with clay soil helps improve the air quality inside the home. Blocking air from getting through the space prevents dust, mold, and allergens from spreading into living areas. This reduces musty smells and the risk of mold growth, which can affect health. By controlling moisture and temperature, encapsulation makes a home more energy-efficient.
Polyethylene Liners
A polyethylene liner acts as a barrier to stop moisture from the ground from entering the crawl space. The liners are made from durable, thick plastic sheets that are also puncture-resistant. They cover the floor and the walls of the crawl space to seal off moisture completely. You can use polyethylene liners with compacted clay layers to create a multi-layered waterproofing barrier.
Learn More About Waterproofing Service
Foundation repair experts offer waterproofing services to resolve basement flooding and foundation damage. They perform comprehensive inspections and stabilization to restore the integrity of your home. Contact a reputable foundation expert to find out more about their waterproofing services.
