When it comes to basement waterproofing, homeowners have two main choices – exterior and interior. Neither is necessarily better than the other, as the right option depends on many factors. In this post, we’ll explain the differences between these two options and help you decide which one is best for your home.
What Causes Basement Water Damage?
The most common cause of basement water damage is a combination of hydrostatic pressure and groundwater seepage. Hydrostatic pressure is caused by the accumulation of water in the soils around your home. This pressure will eventually push moisture through any cracks or holes in your foundation walls.
Groundwater seepage can also be a problem, especially if your property is located on a slope. This occurs when water from higher ground pools up against your basement walls and slowly seeps into the foundation. If left unchecked, these issues can cause serious structural damage to your home.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Exterior basement waterproofing involves sealing the outside of your foundation walls. This may involve digging up part of your yard, so it should only be done by professionals who are experienced in this type of work. This process often includes:
- Installing a waterproof membrane around the perimeter of your home
- Re-grading the soil around your home to direct water away from it
- Installing a sump pump to collect excess groundwater and pump it away from your foundation
- Installing drain pipes along with gravel backfill to allow water to escape quickly
Exterior basement waterproofing can be an effective way to prevent water damage, but it may not be possible in certain situations. If you have an above-ground basement, for example, then exterior waterproofing may not be an option.
Interior Basement Waterproofing
Interior basement waterproofing involves sealing off any cracks or openings in your foundation walls from inside the basement. This can be done with special sealants or coatings that are designed for use on foundations. It may also include installing drainage systems that collect excess water and direct it away from the walls.
Interior basement waterproofing can help prevent water from entering your home, but there are some drawbacks. For one thing, the sealants used may need to be reapplied over time due to normal wear and tear. Additionally, if there are any underlying issues with the foundation itself, they may not be addressed with interior waterproofing.
Which Option Is Right For You?
The right option for you will depend on many factors – including how much money you’re willing to spend and what kind of foundation you have. If you’re dealing with a severe issue such as hydrostatic pressure or groundwater seepage, then exterior waterproofing may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with minor issues such as occasional leaks or condensation on walls, then interior waterproofing may suffice.
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