As a homeowner, the condition of your house is crucial to you. It’s not just because it’s a significant financial investment as well, but in addition, it’s your home. Do you remember how happy you were when you signed your name on the line and got the keys to your home? Why shouldn’t you invest the time and effort to ensure that your house is in near-perfect condition?
Suppose you reside in an area susceptible to severe rain, heavy snowstorms, and heavy snowmelts. In that case, you’re aware of the harm this type of weather can create for your home and basement. As a responsible homeowner, you’ve chosen to invest in basement waterproofing to safeguard your home. However, there are many alternatives to consider, and there are a variety of methods to contemplate. Also, consider whether you should hire a specialist to perform the work. In the end, how is the interior waterproofing different from the waterproofing for exterior areas?
Interior and Exterior Waterproofing Differences
Exterior Waterproofing
Exterior waterproofing is your first protection against water. It consists of downspouts and gutters designed to collect water and direct the evaporation of your house. It is why it’s vital to maintain your gutters clear. A crucial aspect of waterproofing your exterior is waterproof membranes, which are placed outside the house to keep moisture out to ensure that concrete doesn’t absorb, crack, or allow leaks to occur. The next step is to install an exterior drainage system like a French drain. The system could require some effort because it requires excavation on the house’s foundation.
Drain tiles get installed inside the trench surrounding the house surrounded by gravel, and the whole system gets covered with soil. The drain tiles remove the water from the base before it gets an opportunity to get into the basement. While this process requires excavation, it could be worth the effort.
An expensive exterior waterproofing solution can be affordable since it will save you money over the long term. Exterior waterproofing can be more costly than interior waterproofing because it takes more effort and materials; however, it effectively stops water from entering the foundations of your house. When your foundation remains dry, it won’t become fragile and damaged. It will not crack and let water leak into the basement or inside your house.
Interior Waterproofing
Interior waterproofing is a way to ensure that any water that seeps into the basement gets diverted out of the property. These drainage systems for the interior comprise drains and pipes that capture leaks or are placed beneath the foundation to store excess groundwater. This water gets sent into a sump pit, a vast basin that keeps the water stored in your basement. There is then a sump pump, a type of water pump located inside the sump pit, and then pumps water from the basement away from your house. Sump pumps typically begin pumping water once they reach an appropriate level within the cavity. Most sump pumps have an extra battery that can continue working in the event of a power failure or a severe storm.
Another way of waterproofing your interior is through the use of water barriers. They are constructed of foil or plastic sheets and placed in your basement walls to block out moisture. In addition to an internal drainage system, waterproofing the interior is also used to stop any cracks and leaks that let water into the basement. They can quickly seal to prevent humidity or moisture in your home. Installing a quality waterproofing system for your interior can significantly lower the possibility of flooding your basement. The drainage systems are simple to install and typically cost less than waterproofing systems for exterior use.
Exterior and interior waterproofing both have pros and cons. It is only employed to get rid of the water already in your basement, which means they need to be more effective in keeping water from entering your basement from the beginning. Exterior waterproofing is expensive; however, it helps keep water out of the foundation and keeps it from entering the home or even into your basement. No matter what method you choose, the most important thing is that you’re trying to ensure that your house stays dry and warm.
Contact the professionals at Ottawa Plumbing Service by calling (613) 317-1682 or emailing info@ottawaplumbingservice.com if you have any questions about waterproofing techniques or are interested in interior and exterior waterproofing for your property.
