The Waterproofing Process

In an effort to help you better understand what we do, we've created a guided tour to show you all the steps involved in the escavation and waterproofing process. The tour includes photos and a detailed explanation of each step.

Waterproofing vs. Dampproofing

Most new foundations are only dampproofed. What does this mean? Poured foundations are generally coated with tar. Block foundations are generally covered with parging and coated with tar. Tar and parging are only water-resistant, not waterproof. Parging shifts and cracks under pressure. Tar rots away with time.
The application of a seamless, roll-on, rubber membrane will prevent water from penetrating the foundation. This membrane should be covered with insulation board for additional protection.
Most foundation cracks can be repaired from the interior with a urethane foam injection system. The foam seals the crack and allows for foundation movement without extension of the crack or water penetration.

Waterproofing vs. Water Control

What is the difference? Many companies now claim to control your basement water problems by spraying the interior of your foundation and installing a baseboard system. But water control systems are able only to reroute the water entering your basement. The baseboard system directs water toward a drain or sump pump pit in the basement without alleviating water, dampness or moisture from entering the basement. Endless opportunities are left for molds, mildews and insects to thrive!
Waterproofing can arrest the flow of water into the basement. By excavating around the exterior of the foundation, repairing foundation cracks, waterproofing the walls with a seamless, roll-on rubber membrane, installing new drain tile and back filling with stone and sand to provide proper drainage, you can prevent water from ever entering your basement.