How Do You Waterproof Interior Basement Walls?
Waterproofing your basement walls is the process of sealing or protecting against moisture penetration. The term refers to the ability of materials to prevent liquid from entering their structure. You can look for a gyprocker near me because this is usually done by an expert.
Sealing your basement wall prevents water damage from occurring. In addition, it also keeps out pests such as insects and rodents. The most common method of waterproofing involves applying a coating of tar or asphalt to the surface of the concrete foundation.
Waterproofing your basement can be accomplished with either a mechanical system or an epoxy-based system, which are both effective in terms of cost and performance. Mechanical systems include sump pumps, drain pans and weep holes. Epoxy-based systems use a combination of resins and fillers that harden into a robust and flexible film when applied to the concrete wall.
In some cases, the basement may have been damaged by flooding or other sources of water. If this has occurred, then the first step is to remove all wet areas and clean the walls thoroughly. Next, apply a thin layer of waterproofing compound to the exposed area. Follow up with another coat after 24 hours if necessary.
If the basement was not flooded, then there will be no need for any additional waterproofing. However, if the walls are still damp or mouldy, then they should be sealed immediately.
What Is Waterproofing?
A waterproofing membrane is a very thin sheet of plastic material that is placed between the substrate (the concrete) and the outer surface of the building envelope. It is designed to protect the substrate from moisture intrusion. Moisture that penetrates the membrane will simply run off the backside of the membrane.
The membrane is typically installed using a hand trowel or sprayer. Once the membrane is on the wall, it is important to smooth out any air pockets or wrinkles. A small amount of caulking around windows and doors helps keep out moisture too.
The membrane must be completely sealed around window and door openings. To ensure proper adhesion, a bead of silicone caulk is often used.
Once the membrane is complete, it’s time to finish the project. You’ll want to prime the entire exterior surface of the wall before painting. Primer is required because it creates a solid base for paint to adhere to. After priming, the wall can be painted.
When selecting a waterproofing product membrane, look at the manufacturer’s warranty period. Some membranes offer warranties.
What Are My Options for Basement Wall Repair?
There are two types of repairs available: patching and resurfacing. Patching is basically repairing cracks and holes in the concrete. Resurfacing is a new technique that allows us to create a seamless, continuous surface.
Patchwork repairs are made by filling the crack with a specially formulated grout mix. This grout is similar to mortar but does not contain sand. It is mixed according to the instructions provided by the waterproofing company.
For best results, we suggest installing a waterproofing membrane prior to making the patchwork repairs. The membrane provides a barrier against water penetration while also protecting the wall from damage.
Resurfacing involves applying a special resin-based latex coating over the existing concrete. The resin cures to form a tough, durable, weather-resistant surface.
Once the repairs are complete, the wall needs to be sealed. We recommend sealing the entire exterior surface of your foundation wall. This includes the joints where the wall meets the foundation, as well as along the top edges.
This ensures that the waterproofing membrane remains intact.
Sealants come in many forms. They are usually applied with a brush or roller. Depending on the type of sealant being used, the application process varies slightly.
For example, a solvent-borne sealant requires a clean work area. The surface should be free of dust, dirt and other contaminants. Any oil or grease should be cleaned up first.
For a water-based sealant, however, there is no need for such a clean environment. In fact, some of our products even require an outdoor setting.
We always recommend testing the newly applied sealant before allowing people into your home. This way, you know what kind of conditions the sealant will withstand.
Do I Need a Sump Pump?
In most cases, sump pumps are unnecessary. If you live in a low-lying area, it may be necessary to install one. However, if you don’t flood regularly, a sump pump isn’t needed.
A sump pump is designed to remove excess water from the lowest point in the house. If you’re unsure whether you need a sump pump, call us. Our experts can help determine whether this system is right for you.
What Is The Best Way To Install A Sump Pump?
Sump pumps are designed to remove excess water from basements. However, they’re only effective when there isn’t too much water present.
A sump pump should be placed at least 12 inches away from the foundation wall. Otherwise, the pump will draw water back up through the drain pipe.
In addition, make sure that the pump isn’t located within 3 feet of the ground level. Any water that drains into the pit must flow into the pump.
What Is Hydrostatic Pressure?
Hydrostatic pressure refers to the weight of water above a structure. When the ground beneath the building is saturated, hydrostatic pressure builds up. As the level rises, so does the weight of the water.
The force of the water pressing down on the soil acts like a wedge pushing against the foundation. Eventually, the soil under the foundation begins to buckle. At this point, the soil becomes unstable and the foundation starts to settle.
The amount of time it takes for the soil to become unstable depends on several factors, including how deep the groundwater table is below the foundation, and how much rain falls in the surrounding area.
It’s important to note that soil settlement doesn’t necessarily mean water entering the basement. There are many reasons why soil could begin to settle without actually having any water inside the structure.
However, when the soil settles, it creates a gap between the floor joists and the foundation. If moisture enters these gaps, it can cause rot to develop.
To prevent this, we recommend placing polyethylene sheeting around the perimeter of the foundation. This will keep out moisture and keep the soil stable.
Is Plasterboard Installation Necessary?
When installing gypsum board over concrete, you’ll want to use a masonry adhesive. These adhesives bond the gypsum boards to the concrete.
Depending on the thickness of the concrete, you may also need to apply a primer coat. Once the primer has dried, apply two coats of mortar.
Finally, place the gypsum board over the top of the mortar. Apply another layer of mortar, then smooth the surface using a trowel.
This method ensures that your new plasterboard won’t crack or peel off during the drying period. It also helps protect the underlying concrete.
Do You Recommend Waterproof Paint?
Waterproof paint is typically used as a temporary fix for leaking pipes or faulty plumbing. It’s not intended for long-term applications.
However, it can provide a quick solution until you find the source of the leak. Although it’s not ideal, waterproof paint can be effective at stopping leaks temporarily.
If you have a small leak, you can cover it with a piece of plastic or duct tape. For larger leaks, you should contact a professional plumber. They can seal the hole completely.
Can I Use Hydraulic Cement Instead of Gypsum Board?
Gypsum board is commonly used as an exterior finish material because it provides insulation, protection, and soundproofing.
Although hydraulic cement can perform similar functions, it’s usually less expensive than gypsum board. In addition, it requires fewer steps to install.
You can cut it into strips and nail it directly onto the studs. To create the final appearance, you can add trim pieces and mouldings.
Once installed, you can treat the hydraulic cement as if it were a gypsum board. You can stain it, prime it, and apply a clear coating.
Are Concrete Walls Safe?
Concrete walls are generally safe. However, they’re susceptible to damage caused by extreme temperatures and humidity levels.
If you live in an area with high humidity, you should check your concrete periodically. You can test its strength by applying a weight to the wall.
If the weight causes cracking, you should consider sealing the cracks. You can fill them with caulk or epoxy resin.
If you notice any signs of deterioration, such as peeling paint, call a professional. They can inspect the condition of your concrete and make necessary repairs.
Should I Seal My Basement Walls Before Installing Gypsum Board?
Yes! When you install the gypsum board, you must first seal the seams. Otherwise, moisture will seep between the layers.
It’s important to use a quality sealant. If you use a low-quality product, it could cause the seam to fail. This could lead to serious water damage.
When installing a gypsum board, we recommend using a caulking gun. It makes it easy to apply the sealant evenly along the edges.
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