Basements can be a great addition to your home, but they can also be a source of water damage if they’re not properly waterproofed. That’s why it’s important to understand what to expect during the waterproofing process – from the initial inspection to the final cleanup.
This article will take you through some of the things you can expect during the waterproofing process.
The Inspection
The first step in any waterproofing project is an inspection. This is usually done by a professional waterproofing contractor. During the inspection, the contractor will look for signs of water damage, such as leaks, cracks, or water stains. They will also assess the condition of your basement’s walls and floors and decide on the exterior or interior basement and crawlspace waterproofing. These are some of the most common types of waterproofing and every professional waterproofing contractor should be able to offer them.
Once the inspection is complete, the contractor will give you a report with their findings and recommendations. If they find evidence of water damage, they will likely recommend some form of waterproofing and the estimate for the project.
The Estimate
If you’re concerned about the cost, keep in mind that waterproofing your basement can add value to your home and protect your belongings from water damage. In some cases, waterproofing can even be covered by your homeowners’ insurance.
On the other hand, the cost of not waterproofing your basement can be much higher. Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems in homes, so it’s important to do everything you can to prevent it.
It’s also important to ask the contractor any questions you may have about the project. This is your chance to get clarification on the scope of work and ensure that you’re comfortable with the price.
The estimate for your waterproofing project will depend on several factors, such as the size of your basement, the extent of the water damage, and the type of waterproofing you need. Once you have the estimate, you can decide whether or not to proceed with the project.
The Preparation
Once you’ve decided to move forward with the project, the next step is preparation. This usually involves emptying your basement of any furniture or belongings and protecting your floors and walls from water damage.
If you have hardwood floors, for example, the contractor will likely put down plastic sheeting to protect them from water damage. They may also put up plastic sheeting on your walls to protect them from water damage.
The waterproofing process can be messy, so it’s important to prepare your basement ahead of time. This will make the cleanup process much easier and ensure that your belongings are protected from water damage.
The Waterproofing
After the preparation is complete, the actual waterproofing can begin. The type of waterproofing you need will depend on the severity of the water damage and the recommendations of the contractor.
One of the most common types of waterproofing is exterior waterproofing. This involves applying a waterproof membrane to the outside of your basement walls. It’s usually used in conjunction with interior waterproofing, which involves sealing the inside of your basement walls with a waterproof sealant.
On the other hand, interior waterproofing is typically the best option for basements that have already been damaged by water. Exterior waterproofing is usually recommended for new construction or homes with minor leaks.
Once the waterproofing is complete, the contractor will clean up any debris and remove any plastic sheeting from your floors and walls.
The Materials Used
The materials used in waterproofing your basement will depend on the type of waterproofing you need. For exterior waterproofing, the contractor will likely use a sheet membrane, such as PVC or EPDM. This is a heavy-duty material that can withstand years of exposure to the elements. It acts as a barrier against water, preventing it from seeping through cracks and gaps in your foundation.
For interior waterproofing, the contractor will use a sealant, such as silicone or urethane. These are applied to the inside of your basement walls and help to prevent water from seeping from the outside. However, they’re not as durable as sheet membranes and will need to be reapplied every few years.
The Timing and Durability of the Process
The length of time it takes to waterproof your basement will depend on the type of waterproofing you need. Exterior waterproofing is typically a more involved process and can take several days to complete. Interior waterproofing is usually less time-consuming and can be done in a day or two.
It also depends on the severity of the water damage. If your basement is severely damaged, it may take longer to waterproof it. In addition, if you have a lot of furniture or belongings in your basement, it will take longer to prepare for the project.
The Cleanup
Once the waterproofing is complete, the contractor will clean up any debris and remove any plastic sheeting from your floors and walls. They may also put down a new layer of flooring, such as vinyl or carpet, to protect your floors from water damage.
On the other hand, if your basement has already been damaged by water, the contractor will likely need to do some repairs before they can begin the waterproofing process. This may involve replacing drywall, insulation, or electrical wiring.
And once the waterproofing is complete, the contractor will conduct a final inspection. This is to ensure that the job was done properly and that there are no leaks. If they find any leaks, they’ll fix them before they leave.
The Durability
The lifespan of your waterproofing will depend on the type of waterproofing you choose. Exterior waterproofing can last for decades, while interior waterproofing will need to be reapplied every few years. No matter what type of waterproofing you choose, it’s important to have it inspected regularly to ensure that it’s still in good condition.
Waterproofing your basement can add years to the life of your home. However, remember that waterproofing is not a permanent solution. Over time, the materials will degrade and need to be replaced.
It’s also important to keep an eye on your basement for any signs of water damage. Even if you have waterproofed your basement, it’s still possible for water to seep through cracks and gaps. If you notice any signs of water damage, such as mold or mildew, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible.
Waterproofing your basement is an important step in protecting your home from water damage. This article outlined the seven things you can expect during the waterproofing process – from the initial inspection to the final cleanup.
It’s important to remember that waterproofing is not a permanent solution, and you’ll need to have it inspected regularly to ensure that it’s still in good condition. In addition, keep an eye out for any signs of water damage, as even the best waterproofing can’t completely prevent water from seeping through cracks and gaps.