The cost of waterproofing a basement is related to the condition of the walls and flooring. It is important to remember that it costs less to fix problems when they are first discovered. If you allow them to grow without repair, they could easily turn into expensive disasters. There are several specific factors that need to be considered when planning a budget for the repairs.
Aging homes begin to produce leaks. Underground basements are prone to leaks over the years. Thankfully, as time passes, the standards used in new home building continues to improve. Legal codes and contractor practices have made protecting the foundation a priority to ensure it lasts for many years.
There are several reasons for leaks and damage to walls and floors. The pressure of shifting ground can cause the floor to settle away from a flush wall. Erosion can move dirt or gravel away from the foundation, exposing areas to other natural occurrences. Other forces, such as tree roots can grow under the floor or into the wall and cause pressure cracks.
Smaller cracks are easy to fix. They often are visible inside the home. When they appear, you can apply an appropriate poxy or solution to seal them again. In many cases, you can perform this work without having to hire a contractor. If the cracks continue to grow or exhibit moisture, you should consult a professional to be sure there is nothing serious happening.
Repairs to the external foundation can be expensive. If the external damage is significant, the contractor often has to dig a trench next to the house. This will give them a better idea of what exactly is happening to cause the severe leak. With this type of a job, you may want to discuss preventive measures that can be put in place while the foundation is exposed.
The landscaping should force water away from the house. Often, the ground should rise at least slightly at the point it rests against the outer wall. Sloping away from the wall gives a natural path for the water to run. There needs to be grass or other ground cover to prevent erosion. As the erosion happens, the ground may begin to slope towards the wall again.
Good drainage systems help siphon water away from the foundation. When the foundation is first built, or exposed during repairs, a rubber membrane can be installed to help provide a watertight seal. Installing a perforated drainpipe covered with gravel and sand will provide an easy escape for the water. These are usually placed at the base of the foundation and run completely past it to provide a better escape.
Budgeting the cost of waterproofing a basement is directly related to the conditions that are presented. If there are only small cracks, they can be filled and sealed. Larger foundation repair jobs should include an inspection of the current drain system. If it is inadequate, the time to fix or install a new system is while the trench is open.
Aging homes begin to produce leaks. Underground basements are prone to leaks over the years. Thankfully, as time passes, the standards used in new home building continues to improve. Legal codes and contractor practices have made protecting the foundation a priority to ensure it lasts for many years.
There are several reasons for leaks and damage to walls and floors. The pressure of shifting ground can cause the floor to settle away from a flush wall. Erosion can move dirt or gravel away from the foundation, exposing areas to other natural occurrences. Other forces, such as tree roots can grow under the floor or into the wall and cause pressure cracks.
Smaller cracks are easy to fix. They often are visible inside the home. When they appear, you can apply an appropriate poxy or solution to seal them again. In many cases, you can perform this work without having to hire a contractor. If the cracks continue to grow or exhibit moisture, you should consult a professional to be sure there is nothing serious happening.
Repairs to the external foundation can be expensive. If the external damage is significant, the contractor often has to dig a trench next to the house. This will give them a better idea of what exactly is happening to cause the severe leak. With this type of a job, you may want to discuss preventive measures that can be put in place while the foundation is exposed.
The landscaping should force water away from the house. Often, the ground should rise at least slightly at the point it rests against the outer wall. Sloping away from the wall gives a natural path for the water to run. There needs to be grass or other ground cover to prevent erosion. As the erosion happens, the ground may begin to slope towards the wall again.
Good drainage systems help siphon water away from the foundation. When the foundation is first built, or exposed during repairs, a rubber membrane can be installed to help provide a watertight seal. Installing a perforated drainpipe covered with gravel and sand will provide an easy escape for the water. These are usually placed at the base of the foundation and run completely past it to provide a better escape.
Budgeting the cost of waterproofing a basement is directly related to the conditions that are presented. If there are only small cracks, they can be filled and sealed. Larger foundation repair jobs should include an inspection of the current drain system. If it is inadequate, the time to fix or install a new system is while the trench is open.
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