Waterproofing services include identification and offering solutions to home and business owners who are dealing with moisture intrusion issues. These issues most often involve subterranean spaces such as basements or crawlspaces, but moisture problems can occur on any floor of a building. Knowing what the appropriate moisture levels should be is key to this process.
Process for Waterproofing a Home
Waterproofing a home or business involves processes such as perimeter drainage systems, foundation restoration, and exterior modifications such as proper grading and downspout configuration.
If water is seeping through the foundation in numerous areas then a perimeter drain with a sump pump system is often the best course of action. These systems are done by digging a trench around the perimeter of the basement and allowing water to pass through the foundation and into these drainage systems which then direct the water to a sump pump which pumps it out of the basement.
If there is an isolated area or two where moisture penetrates the foundation, spot repairs can be utilized. When no actual water is coming through the foundation or floor, but moisture in the form of vapor is causing a humidity issue, sealing the foundation walls and floors is a possible solution. It is very important to understand which type of problem you are having so you are provided with the proper solution. The perimeter drainage system is very effective, but it is also very expensive with costs running in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Importance of Waterproofing and Moisture Management
Water and moisture damage is the leading cause of damage to homes and businesses and every year hundreds of billions of dollars in damage occurs. Whether the damage originates from a weather event or from groundwater, it can cause so many problems such as mold, pests, insect infestation, structural damage, and damage to stored personal items.
Allowing this damage to persist unchecked will only make the situation worse and increase the overall cost. And in the last 10 years, many parts of the US have experienced wetter than average climate. Unfortunately, this trend is only projected to become worse as climate change, melting glaciers and rising sea levels cause worsening storm systems and heavier precipitation.
Signs Your Home Needs Waterproofing Services
When you open your basement door and walk downstairs, there should be no difference in air quality or relative humidity than in the rest of your house. If however, you open your basement door and a musty odor hits you in the face, you have a problem and may need waterproofing services. In many cases, the signs are clear that something is not right with the foundation or basement floor. Peeling, cracking and crumbling foundation walls, a white chalky substance on the cinder blocks known as efflorescence are telltale signs that the pressure being exhibited on the foundation is surpassing its ability to keep the interior space dry. Many people believe that there is nothing you can do about it, that “That’s just the way it is in this area” or “the water table is just so high that you have to expect a wet basement”.
Waterproofing FAQs
Which type of waterproofing is best?
Each waterproofing project is different but, for the majority of clients, we tend to use a latex-based waterproofing sealant with an epoxy additive. This very recent innovation in waterproofing can increase the moisture resistance of a masonry structure up to 18psi. This was unheard of just a few years ago.
Contact Moisture Science to discuss your home or business waterproofing needs.
Is laminate flooring waterproof?
Traditional laminate flooring is not moisture resistant. Products such as Pergo which are composed of compressed particle board will warp when exposed to a very small amount of water or vapor pressure. There are newer laminate flooring products that are composed of mainly plastics which cannot be affected by moisture.
Is vinyl flooring waterproof?
Yes, the vinyl flooring substances are waterproof because these substances are primarily a composition of PVC (Polyvinyl chloride). Although, the standard of water resistance will highly depend upon the level of installing vinyl flooring. Vinyl flooring can be said a waterproofing substance, yet it cannot withstand flooding. The ideal flooring solution would be a vinyl plank flooring solution, that is utilized for basements, busy households, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Is bamboo flooring waterproof?
No, bamboo flooring is not waterproof. If the bamboo flooring is treated effectively, it can show improved quality water resistance while surpassing the performance of hardwood in the majority of cases. You should be quick enough to clean out the spilled water on the bamboo flooring as it will affect in causing damage to the bamboo flooring.