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basement waterproofer.
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Basement waterproofing refers to preventing water from entering the basement of a house or other building. Waterproofing is needed in cases where ground water is attempting to reach a level while it moves downward towards the water table. This leveling causes hydrostatic pressure to be exerted onto basement walls. This hydrostatic pressure forces water into foundation walls and through the footing-foundation wall joint. Hydrostatic pressure can cause major structural damage to foundation walls and has the ability to mold and decay building materials.
The three measures developed to prevent this problem differ greatly in ideology and design. The first being an interior wall sealant is widely considered a “temporary” solution, used mainly for the purpose of fixing single, non-recurring leaks. The other two methods are interior water division and exterior waterproofing.
Interior water division is not technically waterproofing, as it functions by allowing water to enter a basement and then channeling it into a collection pipe, which then flows to a sump pump, allowing the water to be pumped out of the basement.
A criticism of interior water division is that it still allows water to enter the basement. Structural damage may occur as the water is allowed to pass through the basement walls, promoting the growth of mold.
Exterior waterproofing prevents water from entering foundation walls, therefore preventing the wicking and molding of building materials. Prior to the 1980’s, much of the original exterior waterproofing was actually damp-proofing using a degradable asphalt-based covering. Asphalt and tar based compounds are affected by soil pH and break down after 10-20 years, thus making the waterproofing ineffective.
Over the past ten years, polymer-based waterproofing products have been developed. Polymer-based products last for the lifetime of the building, and are not affected by soil pH. Polymer-based waterproofing also has the advantage of a low enough viscosity that it can be sprayed directly onto a wall.
