Waterproofing Techniques
Water entering your home or basement can be a destructive and potentially hazardous problem to have. Not only is it annoying to have your family's property destroyed or soaked by water if it is stored in the basement, but there is the possibility that foundation erosion can cause structural problems with your home and that the constant dampness and moisture could facilitate the growth of mildew or mold, which could have serious health consequences. If you have a water problem with your home, you may need to consider waterproofing. There are a number of methods for waterproofing your home that can be used and each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. Does this Spark an idea?
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Excavate and Regrade
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One of the most severe methods of waterproofing your home is to dig out the area of your basement where the walls are underground, and waterproof the exterior cement with pitch or a good foundation cement before replacing the dirt and regrading the area so that the water coming off your home runs away from the foundation instead of toward it. Doing this is a last resort, and is often costly, but it is one of the most effective ways to ensure that you have permanently stopped a water problem.
Parge the Exterior Wall
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Another method of waterproofing a basement area or home is to parge, or trowel on, two coats of Portland cement to the exterior of the home. This acts to seal the pores in the concrete blocks of the home's foundation as well as any cracks. This may not be as effective as using foundation cement, but this method is an easy do-it-yourself way to waterproof the exterior areas of your home while also improving their appearance.
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Use Waterproofing Compounds
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In some cases, for small water encroachment problems, a waterproofing liquid or paint like Dry Lock or a similar product can be used. This will generally only help occasional water problems and can only be done if the concrete is cured and is in good enough condition to accept the waterproofing compound. This is an inexpensive fix that will only remedy the most basic water and moisture problems.
Exterior Injection
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Another method of waterproofing is to inject a waterproof material in a slurry form into the area between the home's foundation and the outside dirt. This will then expand as it dries and will plug any cracks or loose joints, creating a waterproof barrier between the home and the outside once it has cured.
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