5 Steps for Basement Waterproofing

Building a new home requires attention to many details, one of the most critical being basement waterproofing. Since basements are below ground level, they are naturally susceptible to water intrusion from various sources. For homes with basements, incorporating waterproofing from the start is essential to prevent water damage, mold, and structural issues in the future. Many homeowners are unaware that basements can easily get damp, leading to serious issues over time.

Basement waterproofing refers to the techniques and materials used to prevent water from entering the basement of a house or building. Effective basement waterproofing typically involves a combination of sealants, coatings, and membranes and paying special attention to the quality and the processes in casting the concrete elements to prevent water from entering the concrete as well as designing thoughtful drainage systems to collect and redirect any water that does manage to seep in. 

This article will explore the causes of basement water infiltration, different waterproofing methods, its advantages, and the waterproofing process.

5 Steps for Basement Waterproofing

The following are the steps involved in waterproofing a new basement.

Installing an External Drainage System

This is a primary defense against water intrusion. While constructing the basement, it is important to install perforated pipes around the foundation perimeter to collect and divert groundwater away from the basement walls. 

Surface Preparation

The substrate should be uniform with no gaps or voids greater than 12 mm. The surface does not need to be dry, but standing water must be removed. Substrates must have sufficient rigidity not to move during the concrete pour. 

Waterproofing Membrane Application

A waterproofing membrane is applied to the exterior walls, this creates a barrier against water intrusion. 

SUNPRUFE membrane is a good choice for basement waterproofing. It is a pre-applied, HDPE, self-adhesive waterproofing membrane. Gravity causes the membrane to form a continuous adhesive bond with concrete poured against it, which stops water from migrating between the membrane and the structure and greatly enhances leak protection. Following the membrane’s bond with the concrete, an integral seal is created that keeps water out of the system and is unaffected by earth settlement beneath the slabs.

Installing an Internal Drainage System

This acts as a secondary defense in case water bypasses the exterior waterproofing. A drainage pipe along the basement floor perimeter collects any water that seeps through and directs it to a sump pump. This sump pump is specifically designed to remove water from the basement. It collects water in a sump pit and pumps it out to the exterior drainage system. 

Sealings

Pay close attention to areas where pipes, electrical conduits, and other elements penetrate the foundation walls and floor. Use appropriate sealants to prevent water leaks.

Basement Waterproofing Methods

Interior Sealants

Applying sealants or waterproofing coatings to the interior walls and floors of the basement to create a barrier against moisture infiltration.

Exterior Waterproofing

Installing waterproof membranes or coatings on the exterior walls of the foundation and retaining wall to prevent water from seeping into the basement.

Foundation Repair

Repairing cracks, gaps, or damaged areas in the foundation walls or floors to prevent water infiltration.

Interior Drainage Systems

Installing interior drainage systems, such as French drains or interior weeping tile, to collect and redirect water away from the basement.

Exterior Drainage Systems

Ensuring proper grading around the foundation and installing exterior drainage systems, such as gutters, downspouts, and French drains, to channel water away from the basement walls.

Sump Pump Installation

Installing a sump pump in the basement to collect and remove any water that accumulates, preventing flooding and water damage.

Basement Wall Reinforcement

Reinforcing basement walls with waterproofing panels or membranes to provide additional protection against moisture infiltration.

Crack Injection

Injecting waterproofing materials into cracks in the basement walls or floors to seal them and prevent water from entering.

These methods can be used individually or in combination to effectively waterproof basements and protect homes from water damage.

Understanding How Moisture Seeps into Basement

The following are some ways in which waterproofing seeps into your basement. 

Hydrostatic Pressure

Water can infiltrate basements due to hydrostatic pressure, which occurs when groundwater accumulates around the foundation and exerts pressure on basement walls and floors, causing water to seep through cracks and gaps.

Inadequate Drainage Systems

Basements may become wet if drainage systems, such as gutters, downspouts, and French drains, are not properly designed, installed, or maintained. Without adequate drainage, rainwater and melting snow can pool around the foundation, leading to water infiltration.

Plumbing or Appliance Malfunctions

Leaky pipes burst water heaters, or malfunctioning appliances located in basements can result in water damage. These issues can go unnoticed for extended periods, allowing water to accumulate and cause damage to walls, floors, and belongings.

Basement Cracks

Cracks in basement walls or floors provide an entry point for water to infiltrate. These cracks may develop due to settling, foundation movement, or pressure from the surrounding soil. Even small cracks can allow significant amounts of water to enter over time.

Faulty Gutters

Poorly installed or maintained gutters and downspouts can contribute to basement water infiltration. Clogged gutters, damaged downspouts, or improper grading around the foundation can result in water pooling near the basement walls, increasing the risk of water seepage.

Ensuring the waterproofing of your basement during the construction phase is the most effective strategy to prevent the aforementioned issues and scenarios.

Advantages of Waterproofing Your Basement

There are several significant advantages to waterproofing your basement, both in terms of protecting your property and improving your living space. Here are some key benefits:

Prevents Water Damage and Flooding

This is the most crucial advantage. Waterproofing acts as a barrier, preventing water from entering your basement, which can cause extensive damage to your foundation, and belongings, and even lead to mold growth.

Protects the Structural Integrity of Your Home

Water seepage and leaks can weaken your foundation over time, leading to structural problems. Waterproofing safeguards your foundation and helps maintain the structural integrity of your house.

Improves Indoor Air Quality

Basements prone to moisture are breeding grounds for mold and mildew, which can trigger respiratory issues and allergies. Waterproofing helps control moisture levels and prevents the growth of these harmful organisms, leading to improved air quality.

Increases Usable Living Space

A damp and leaky basement is often unusable. Waterproofing transforms your basement into a dry and healthy space, allowing you to utilize it for various purposes like storage, recreation, or even an additional living area, potentially increasing the overall value of your home.

Reduces Energy Costs

A damp basement can affect the efficiency of your HVAC system as it works harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. Waterproofing helps regulate moisture levels, leading to improved energy efficiency and potentially lower energy bills.

Sunanda Global’s Waterproofing        

Sunanda Global is a leading waterproofing solution company in India with a vision to set industry standards and become the brand of choice for customers for value-added chemicals. We work to improve the engineering and design of the use of construction chemicals. 

At Sunanda Global, we continually rely on our market-driven research and development to understand the world of construction chemicals. We’ve set up cutting-edge research labs and tech centers in Mumbai’s industrial hub with top-notch analytical tools. Our waterproofing solutions include waterproofing coatings, epoxy coatings, liquid-applied joint-free membranes, waterproofing admixtures, self-adhesive waterproofing membranes, etc. 

In addition to basement waterproofing, we specialize in providing high-quality waterproof roof coating solutions, retaining wall waterproofing, terrace waterproofing, bathroom waterproofing, etc, tailored to protect structures from water damage and ensure long-lasting durability.

Explore Sunanda Global’s full range of innovative constructive chemicals today to elevate your projects with reliability and durability.