Main Causes for Basement Waterproofing Failure

Basement waterproofing is a necessity for any home with a basement. It is important for keeping your basement dry and ensuring the structural integrity of your home. However, there is a lot that goes into selecting a waterproofing solution and installing it to ensure that it works well. When these precautions are ignored the chances of failure are increased. Below, we discuss the main causes of basement waterproofing failure. 

1. Poor planning and preparation 

Poor planning is the root cause of most waterproofing failures. Without proper preparation of the foundation surface prior to installing the waterproofing membrane, the membrane is likely to fail. 

Proper planning means allowing enough time for the preparation and installation of the waterproofing membrane. Oftentimes, waterproofing contractors are not given sufficient time to prepare adequately for the installation of the membrane. 

The surface of the foundation must be carefully prepared in order to ensure proper installation of the membrane. The level of preparation will greatly affect the performance of the waterproofing system. The surface should be smooth and free of debris or distortions. It should also be clean. 

2. Failure of adhesive 

This is a common reason for waterproofing failure. This is often the result of the presence of residual failure when installing the basement waterproofing material. While technology in waterproofing materials has advanced, many adhesives available in the market require dryness of the substrate prior to installing the waterproofing system. Testing the surface for dryness is necessary prior to installing the waterproofing system.

3. Poor selection of material 

There are a wide variety of waterproofing materials available in the market today. However, not all waterproofing materials are suitable for your foundation. Each waterproofing material, whether sheet or liquid membrane is designed for specific environments, scenarios and cases. A lot of thought should go into selecting the waterproofing material for your foundation. The wrong choice will result in waterproofing issues in future. 

Avoid these mistakes by hiring a basement waterproofing contractor 

The problems outlined above can be easily avoided by hiring a professional and experienced waterproofing contractor. Your contractor will guide you through the selection of a waterproofing system and ensure that the right steps are followed in its installation for better performance of the system. The contractor will provide you with options to meet the specific needs and requirements of your property. There will be less chance of failure of your waterproofing system when you work with a professional. 

Seal-tite Basement Waterproofing

Seal-tite Basement Waterproofing Co. is a full service basement environment contractor. We carry an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. We repaired over 40,000 homes and structures in Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. We are fully insured and licensed. We have worked in all types of locations, including residential and commercial locations, government agencies, colleges, hospitals, churches, and condo associations.

Seal-tite® offers a lifetime transferable warranty. We carry a Class A Contractor’s License and we are fully insured. Our satisfied customers range from government agencies to businesses, hospitals, colleges, churches, and thousands of homeowners. Your home is probably the single largest investment you will make in your lifetime. Don’t wait, call Seal-tite® to help make your home dry, safe and livable.