Shedding Light on Basement and Crawl Space Waterproofing
Clear, cool water. It is an essential element of life. Nothing is better on a hot summer’s day or after a vigorous workout. Yet, as homeowners, water also tends to be our number one enemy. Few things cause the amount of damage that water can, and our homes are essentially just big boxes designed to keep the elements – especially water – out of our way. Ensuring that your home is waterproof is critical, but you should know that there is a substantial difference between waterproofing a basement and waterproofing a crawl space. While both areas require protection from water damage, the methods used to achieve this goal can vary significantly.
Basement Waterproofing
When built, basement exteriors are generally waterproofed. Unfortunately, that waterproofing has a limited lifespan and will usually fail within 15 years. If you ever need to open your basement walls – like repairs or remodeling – that’s a great time to take the extra step to install some type of waterproofing. Think of it as an insurance policy. You hope you don’t need it, but it is nice to have it if water starts coming in.
Basements are typically larger and more accessible than crawl spaces, making them easier to waterproof. The following are some common basement waterproofing methods:
Sump Pump. Removes water that accumulates in the basement through a drainage system.
Waterproof Membrane. Its applied to the walls and floor of the basement to create a barrier between the outside elements and the inside of the home.
Exterior Excavation. This method involves digging around the home’s perimeter and installing a drainage system and waterproofing membrane. It is more costly and disruptive than installing an interior drainage system but can be more effective in areas with a high water table.
Crawl Space Waterproofing
Crawl spaces are more challenging to waterproof since they are smaller and usually more difficult to access than basements. The following are some crawl space waterproofing methods:
Vapor Barrier. This plastic sheet barrier covers the ground and walls of the crawl space to prevent moisture from penetrating the foundation walls. It can also reduce the amount of humidity in the space.
Encapsulation. A thick, waterproof liner is attached to the walls and floor to seal the crawl space and prevent moisture from entering. Encapsulation may also include the installation of a dehumidifier to keep the air in the crawl space dry.
Warning Signs
How will you know if your basement needs waterproofing? One way is to grab an umbrella the next time it rains and walk around your home. Take note of how water reacts to the slope. Also, check for potential gutter issues and ensure that downspouts take water away from the house. You can also look for any of the following:
Water running on the basement floor
Water stains on the basement walls
Efflorescence on the basement walls
Of course, any good homeowner’s big question will always be, “How much will this cost me?” That’s hard to say as it truly depends on the level of finishing in the basement but fair warning – it can be very costly.
While both basement and crawl space waterproofing is vital to protect your home from water damage, the methods used to achieve this goal vary greatly. In general, basement waterproofing methods tend to be more extensive and expensive, but they are also more effective in preventing water damage. Crawl space waterproofing is more challenging due to limited access and space, but it is still essential in protecting your home. If you are unsure which method is best for your home, it is always best to consult with a professional waterproofing contractor. As always, let us know if we can help.