Basement Waterproofing services can save you money by stopping water damage to your property and personal possessions. Wet basements create a perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, algae, rodents, insects, and water-born pests such as woodworms and aphids. A sub-floor that is not adequately waterproof invites further damage through leaks and cracks. Homeowners are advised to have a minimum of one foot of water control on the foundation floor, one foot on the top surface of the sub-floor, and three feet of water control on the exterior walls, floors, and ceilings.
The best basement waterproofing services employ both non-invasive methods and invasive methods to treat your foundation. There are two basic options for waterproofing materials, including the epoxy resin system or fiberglass membrane. Both systems have advantages and disadvantages. It is necessary to select waterproofing contractors in Queens that are most compatible with the structure of your home and your budget.
Epoxy resin systems are extremely affordable, but they are also very slow to install. The process usually takes three to four days from start to finish, requiring at least two days to let the resin cure. The resin forms a seal against the surrounding areas since it cures slowly. Once cured, the seal becomes permanent. If the area is not in a flood zone, then this type of waterproofing may not be an effective option. Waterproofing agents are applied to the surface of the concrete and then allowed to penetrate the concrete to prevent seepage into the surrounding areas since they form a thin film.
What is the best product for sealing basement walls?
Fiberglass membranes are extremely durable and effective when sealing and waterproofing basements. They are easy to apply, quick to cure, and do not cause structural damage to the surrounding areas. These products contain a granular material injected into the ground around the foundation. The granules seal the cracks and small gaps around the foundation while preventing water seepage. Most products are applied approximately six inches above the existing surface.
Contractors offering basement waterproofing services include foundation repair as one of their main services. To waterproof the foundation, contractors inject epoxy resins into the soil around the foundation. Once these products have saturated the soil, the liquid is pumped back into the sewer or storm drain system. Foundation repair contractors also offer cleaning out foundation vents, repairing drainage pipes, and inspecting and waterproofing basement floor drains.
How do professionals waterproof a basement?
Concrete contractors offer both wet and dry basement waterproofing services. Dry foundation repairs involve removing standing concrete or masonry, the removal of deteriorated concrete, and the repair of leaks or cracks in the waterproofing. If the area is not leaking or cracks are present, the concrete is salvageable. Wet foundation repairs involve:
- Pumping out floodwaters from surrounding areas.
- Sealing any leaking areas with waterproof membranes.
- Repair any damage that may exist within the walls.
- Installing vapor barriers to prevent moisture absorption within the walls.
This process also includes the replacement of any cracked or missing concrete. Once this process is completed, the concrete will be left dry.
One more type of service offered by waterproofing companies involves repairing and replacing damaged or missing floor drain tiles. Cracks in concrete crawlspaces often occur when soil pressure forces crack into the floor drain. When this occurs, the construction homeowner is typically required to perform the entire repair process, including replacing the cracked tiles and installing a new waterproofing membrane.
Conclusion:
Basement waterproofing contractors also provide mold removal, clean-up, and mold testing services for mold-infected areas. Most homeowners who experience water damage to their basement invest in a special dehumidifier to combat excess moisture within the home. However, if a basement also experiences leaks, dampness, or mold issues, it is necessary to locate and address the situation before the problem becomes worse. Many times, simply treating or neutralizing excess moisture present in crawlspaces will eradicate any mold issues that may exist.