Exterior waterproofing is an essential step in protecting your home from water damage. Be it a small house or a large commercial building, waterproofing the exterior is crucial to prevent costly repairs.
What is Exterior Waterproofing?
Exterior waterproofing refers to the process of preventing water from entering your property by sealing the exterior walls and foundation. This process involves installing a waterproof membrane along the foundation walls, followed by a perforated pipe that directs the water away from the foundation. This pipe is usually connected to a sump pump that pumps the water away from the property.
Why is Exterior Waterproofing Important?
Water can cause serious damage to your home’s foundation, leading to expensive repairs. Moisture buildup in the foundation can cause mold and mildew growth, which can spread throughout the home and affect the indoor air quality. Water can also cause cracks in the foundation walls, creating structural issues that require significant repairs.
Exterior waterproofing protects your home from water damage by preventing the water from entering the foundation. This process not only keeps your home dry but also increases the property’s lifespan. Waterproofing the exterior also prevents water from seeping through the walls and floors, keeping your basement and crawlspace from flooding.
How is Exterior Waterproofing Installed?
Exterior waterproofing involves digging a trench around the home’s foundation, exposing the foundation walls. The walls are then power washed to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the waterproofing process. After that, a waterproof membrane is installed along the foundation walls, using adhesive and nails to secure it in place. The membrane is then covered with drainage board to prevent it from getting damaged.
Next, a perforated pipe is installed at the base of the foundation, running alongside the membrane. The pipe is set on a bed of gravel to make sure it remains stable. Once the pipe is set in place, the trench is filled back up with soil. The pipe is then connected to a sump pump, which pumps the water away from the home.
The Importance of Hiring a Professional
Exterior waterproofing is a complex process that requires special training and equipment. Trying to waterproof your home without the proper knowledge and equipment can lead to expensive mistakes, which can cause more significant problems. Hiring a professional waterproofing contractor ensures that the job is done correctly.
A professional waterproofing contractor will perform a thorough inspection of the property to determine the source of the water and the best method to eliminate it. They will also provide you with a detailed estimate, outlining all the work needed, and how long it will take.
The contractor will also obtain the necessary permits required for the job and follow all local building codes. Once the work is completed, they will provide you with a warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from water damage.
The Bottom Line
Exterior waterproofing is an essential step to protect your home from water damage. By preventing water from entering the foundation, you can avoid costly repairs and maintain the property’s value. While the process may seem overwhelming, hiring a professional waterproofing contractor will ensure that the job is done correctly, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
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