Basement Waterproofing Information

Issues

• Mistakes made during home construction can make a basement vulnerable to leakage, according to the My Waterproofing website. Substandard sealants applied to the concrete, for instance, can allow dampness to penetrate, while a poorly installed drain or improper gutter placement can fail to keep water away from the home.

Types

• The My Waterproofing website categorizes two main types of basement waterproofing: exterior and interior. Exterior waterproofing focuses on preventing groundwater from reaching the foundation. Interior waterproofing allows water that has reached the foundation to drain away safely before it can cause damage.

Methods

• According to the National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors, exterior waterproofing methods include the application of a polymer barrier to foundation surfaces and the placement of a drainpipe around the perimeter of the home. Interior waterproofing uses a system of drainage tiles and pipes that carry water away from the foundation into a sump pit or basin, aided by a mechanical pump.