Feb
29
2012
Understanding Correct Leaky Basement Repair
Author: Adriana NotonAny guide promising leaky basement repair will have to take into consideration a number of crucial factors. A key factor often overlooked by many looking to fix their leaks is understanding what their floors and walls are made out of. Concrete and clay are both common materials used during construction but both have special properties that any repair will have to keep in mind. Remember that no two repairs will be the same since there are number of different points where leaks can and do occur.
Clay brick walls can allow a tremendous amount of water to penetrate due to their honeycomb like nature. This allows pockets of air and eventually water to seep through. In order to repair these walls select and use a compound designed only for clay. This type of compound will seal the wall preventing any future leaks. Preventing future leaks may require certain repairs to exterior as well as interior points around the home.
If your downstairs walls leak and they are made of concrete or cinder blocks as many refer to them will require a compound that is specially designed for use with concrete. The application of a concrete sealer will not only eliminate water seeping through the concrete blocks but also reduce the formation of mold. Look for a sealer that will also strengthens thus reducing the formation of new cracks in the future.
One commonly overlooked point of water intrusion is the floor. Floors can leak through a number of ways some of which are the result of cracks within the floor. When cracks are found in the floor they will need to be repaired before any stain or sealant can be applied to prevent future leaks. Repair cracks with the use of concrete or a specifically designed concrete floor glue for smaller cracks. Once the cracks have been repaired apply the correct sealant to the floor.
Another kind of leak often found often is one that occurs where the downstairs floor and wall meet. This meeting point is called the joint. If the outside drain is clogged water will of course seek the path of least resistance and this is usually the easiest way for water to penetrate your basement wall. In order to fix this you will need to use an epoxy on any visible cracks and finish off with the proper sealer.
Many of these walls will have holes allowing pipes to enter. Over time the mortar between the pipe and the wall will waste away. Once this occurs a point of intrusion is the result and water can find its way in. You can purchase hydraulic cement to fix this problem but do not as this will not adhere correctly to the pipe. Instead look for a polyurethane foam that can be injected. This foam will stick both the pipe and wall, creating a water proof seal.
Do not focus solely on interior repairs and exclude exterior ones. Outside you home there are many ways water can penetrate and cause leaks. A major cause of leaky basements are cracked driveways. Cracks in your driveway allow excess water to enter the ground. Any cracks in the driveway need to be repaired or patched right away. Clogged drains do not move water away from your home as they were originally intended. Make sure your drains are clear and allow water to flow freely.
When looking at leaky basement repair you should be informed about the construction material of your walls. Look for points of penetration both at the walls and the floor. Exterior issues should not be overlooked as they can cause intrusion points in your home originally overlooked during an interior only repair.
Professional leaky basement or basement waterproofing services are ways to ensure that your basement will stay dry from leaks.