COSTLY & SHOULD KNOW: About BASEMENT WATERPROOFING Most basement dampness-seepage don’t need expensive waterproofing. During our Home Inspections, we find nearly 80% of all basements have dampness–seepage. There are corrections and systems cheaper and “better” than waterproofing.Waterproof Contractors Inspections, won’t disclose this, they want that $10,000+ waterproof contract. Basement dampness/seepage is caused by hydrostatic pressure, and failure to control roof and surface water. A home inspector can evaluate this condition, explain what’s going on, if you or handyman can correct it. If, a contractor is needed, what type of contractor, and estimated costs. STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS have structurally speaking: interior waterproofing covers the problem (water penetration) up. It’s a bandage, so you don’t have to deal with it. However, the continuous water penetration through concrete block or poured concrete will deteriorate this concrete, and cause structural failure. During residential construction, the exterior of the foundation is waterproofed with materials and sealants prescribe by the Building Codes. Overtime this exterior sealant will dry & cracks and the natural characteristics of concrete , allowing water to seep-in. There are other systems installed to reduce and avoid this problem. If you really want to waterproof your basement, you must dig-up all around the exterior of your home, and apply the exterior foundation wall sealant. It’s very costly, and difficult.
Why the interior system was developed in the 1960’s. Waterproofing is not really needed in most cases.
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