Your Now that we’ve examined ways to prevent water from entering your basement externally, let’s look at ways to waterproof your basement internally.
Basement walls are constructed of concrete blocks, cinder blocks or cast concrete or precast concrete sections. Concrete is naturally porous as the curing process leaves micro capillaries as the water “bleeds” to the surface from the curing process. To prevent water intrusion requires sealing the interior surface of the basement wall with sealants to prevent water intrusion. Currently sealers containing Silane/Siloxane do an excellent job of waterproofing for minor dampness and condensation issues. Prior to sealing, foundation cracks, gaps, any joints and floor to wall joints should be repaired or caulked.
As the final part of the basement waterproofing system we need a way to transport any captured water – enter the sump pump. A sump pump keeps your home dry by automatically pumping and channeling water away from the foundation or out of the basement. If the sump pump fails, your basement can flood, causing expensive damage to your home and valuables. It’s important to have a reliable sump pump that can help you protect your home in even the wettest weather.
There are generally two types of sump pumps—pedestal and submersible. In the case of the pedestal pump, the motor is mounted above the sump—where it is more easily serviced, but is also more conspicuous. The pump impeller is driven by a long, vertical extension shaft and the impeller is in a scroll housing in the base of the pump. The submersible pump, on the other hand, is entirely mounted inside the sump, and is specially sealed to prevent electrical short circuits. Pedestal sump pumps usually last longer (25 to 30 years) if they are installed properly and kept free of debris. They are less expensive and easier to remove. Submersible pumps will only last 5 to 15 years. They are more expensive to purchase but can take up debris without clogging
Another option to consider is a battery operated backup pump. If during a heavy rain storm the power goes out, so does your sump pump … leaving you with a flooded basement or crawl space. With the installation of a backup sump pump which is battery operated, as soon as the power cuts off the backup pump takes over to handle the pumping chores. The decision to install a backup system will depend on the individual home owner’s situation so it’s best to discuss with your CCSS consultant as part of your basement or crawlspace project.
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