A damp basement is never good news. Besides being an inviting environment for potentially destructive insects, a damp basement encourages the growth and spread of mold and mildew. If ignored long enough, it can have severely detrimental effects on arguably the most important feature of your home: the foundation. A cracked or rotted foundation compromises the stability of your whole house. Luckily, Basement Waterproofing in West Chester, PA can save you the many headaches associated with a damp or leaky basement. Here’s a basic overview of the waterproofing process.
When a structure is built at or below ground level, it’s susceptible to taking on ground water. When the water table is high, hydrostatic pressure forces water in through any cracks or openings it can find. Waterproofing involves making sure that water has no way in by sealing the foundation and installing proper drainage. If you’re building a new home, it’s wise to waterproof during construction, but it’s never too late to safeguard your basement from moisture. Prevention is always easier than dealing with issues after the fact.
Cracks and areas where pipes enter your home are the most common ways for water to enter your basement. Interior waterproofing seals these from the inside. Urethane is injected into the cracks and openings, preventing seepage. This is a long lasting fix, as the urethane penetrates all the way through to the exterior of the foundation, completely eliminating the path for water entry. While drainage isn’t technically waterproofing, it’s still a vital part of keeping your basement dry; perimeter drains and subfloor drains direct water to a sump pump, which in turn pumps the water out of and away from your home.
Exterior waterproofing is another effective way of preventing structural damage due to water seepage. It involves excavating around the foundation and applying a waterproof polymer membrane. New drainage boards and tiles are then installed. A waterproofing company will make sure that the ground around the perimeter of your home has an adequate slope for proper watershed. Properly installed gutters will also direct water far enough away from your home to prevent damage to your foundation.
Basement Waterproofing in West Chester, PA will keep your basement dry and your foundation safe from water damage. Keystone Foundation Repair offers waterproofing, foundation repair, basement finishing, concrete leveling and slab jacking for your commercial or residential foundation needs.