WATERPROOFING

Waterproofing is the process of making something resistant to the entry of water under specific conditions.  Waterproof materials may be used in wet environments or under damp conditions.

The hulls of boats and ships were once waterproofed by applying tar or pitch.  In modern times, materials may be waterproofed by applying water-repellent coatings or by sealing seams or plugging with water-resistant sealants.  In construction, a building or structure is waterproofed with the use of membranes and coatings to protect contents underneath or within as well as protecting structural integrity.  Basements, decks, roofs, wet areas like bathrooms and other structures are often waterproof as a matter of course to protect them from damage.

Basements are the most common areas under attack from rain or snow melt.  More than 90% of wet basements leak water from the walls and the joints where the floor and wall meet.  Surface water collects and builds up around the foundation causing hydrostatic pressure that forces water through the joints.

Professional waterproofing companies help you solve water problems by removing the water pressure against the walls, foundation, or floor of the building or crawl space.  This often involves installing a drainage system around the inside of the foundation walls.

These companies offer a variety of drainage systems.  Thoroughly investigate the effectiveness of a proposed system.  Installation will often involve digging down through the basement floor next to the wall, then replacement of the torn-up sections.  Because the process of digging through the concrete basement floor creates a great deal of debris and dust, the work area must be sealed off from the other areas before work can begin.

Hazards of a damp/leaky basement:
Many home and building owners are unaware of the damage being made by not waterproofing their property.  Water can not only cause odors, they can also compromise the integrity of the structure.  Water damage can result in expansion of existing cracks, crumbling of walls, warping of wood and flooring, dry rot, weakening of supporting beams, wall collapse, and structural foundation damage.  It can damage stored articles, furnaces and appliances, erode metals, and generally deteriorate the property value.

Some good reasons to fix up a damp basement:

• A healthier home environment for you and your family.  Dampness and associated molds and mildew can greatly contribute to respiratory and other health conditions.
• A more attractive and more comfortable home.  A wet and damp basement is an eyesore and a constant nuisance to the homeowner.
• A structurally sound foundation.  Water that is trapped in block foundation walls can deteriorate the foundation and buckle the foundation wall.
• New usable living space.  Increase the living space in your home and finish off your basement to create a home office, family or children’s play room, workshop, fitness room or, dry storage area.
• It is much less expensive to finish off your basement than it is to make an addition to your home.  When one compares the cost of a room addition or sun room to the conversion of a wet basement, the wet basement will be 60 to 75 % cheaper to convert.
• Increased property value.  Wet basements or foundation problems decrease your home value.

For more answers to your questions about waterproofing, contact Freedom Restoration at 410-451-7110 or click here.

 

References:
http://waterproofing.org/index.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterproofing
http://www.nawsrc.org/tipsTips.php