Methods of Chicago Basement Waterproofing

During the construction phase of any new home, there are many important things to consider. If your home will be built at or below ground level, perhaps one of the most important steps in the building process is Chicago basement waterproofing. Waterproofing is needed whenever there is the possibility that ground water levels will build up in the soil and raise the water table. When this happens, the water pressure becomes greater outside the walls of your home than it is inside. Through a process known as osmosis, the water is forced from the exterior of your home through cracks in your foundation.

This process can cause major structural damage and can lead to mold, decay and other water related problems. In order to avoid the stress that comes from dealing with a home that has suffered water damage, precautions should be taken during the Chicago basement waterproofing phase of construction. There are three common methods that home builders use to complete the Chicago basement waterproofing process. The first is known as the interior sealant method. This method is mainly used for basements that are made from poured concrete. In these types of foundations, cracks and pipe entry points are common areas for water to enter the basement. These openings can be sealed relatively easily from the interior of the basement.

Epoxies are used to fill the opening all the way through to the exterior, which effectively seals the opening completely. This method is very reliable, and contractors can usually provide at least a ten year guarantee for the service. As the epoxy begins to break down over time, the process may need to be repeated to ensure that your basement remains waterproofed. The second most common method of Chicago basement waterproofing is not technically waterproofing at all. The method is known as interior water drainage and has become widely considered an effective waterproofing treatment because it is effective in controlling basement water. These systems function by funneling the underground water from alongside the foundation and underneath the basement floor. The water is then collected and pumped away from the home.

These types of waterproofing systems are popular because they can be installed by a professional contractor, or you can purchase a do-it-yourself version. They are often more affordable than other systems, and can be fixed easily should anything go wrong. The third commonly used method of basement waterproofing is exterior waterproofing. This method involves ensuring that exterior walls and foundation footings are protected from water seepage. This method is recognized by the International Building Code as being effective in the prevention of structural damage caused by water infiltration. Of all the methods, exterior waterproofing is the most expensive.

Although the cost is significantly more, this is usually the most effective method and could result in thousands of dollars of savings in the future. If you are in the process of building a home, it is absolutely essential that you speak with your contractor about basement waterproofing. Many home owners are unsure if their basements are adequately protected, and you definitely don't want to discover that your home is among those without protection. By coordinating with your contractor during the building process, you can gain valuable information on the waterproofing method that is used in your basement. Having this knowledge could help you avoid having to pay for costly home repairs in the future. Don't be afraid to talk about your options with the contractor in charge of building your home. Chances are that he or she will appreciate you taking an active interest in the home building process. It's always best to be as informed as possible.