A Guide To Basement Waterproofing Systems

You might not believe how easy it is for moisture to get into your home. Most people think that as long as they live in places that aren't susceptible to inclement weather or high levels of humidity, they don't have to worry about learning about basement waterproofing systems. Would you be surprised to learn that most basement flooding is the result of moisture that has been generated inside of your home? Even more interesting is the fact that a basement's moisture level is a lot higher than the moisture level in the rest of your home because there are fewer methods of moisture removal in a basement than there are in the rest of your home. With that in mind, here is some basic information about the basement waterproofing systems that are available to you.

External Basement Waterproofing Systems

Taking is one of the most common methods of basement waterproofing. Tanking refers to the process in which a bonding substance or membrane is applied to the outside walls of your basement. The best tanking products are polymer based. Make sure that the tanking takes place as your home is being constructed, especially if your basement is underground.

The outside drainage system is another method of external basement waterproofing. This usually means that the basement is built in such a way that the floors of the basement slope toward your home's sump pump. A thin, plastic, honeycomb membrane is applied to the walls and floors of your basement to ensure the quick removal of any moisture that makes its way into your basement.

The exterior fountain drain or "French drain" is another method of basement waterproofing. This form of basement waterproofing is usually installed on houses that are constructed in parts of the country that regularly see heavy rainfall levels and other types of moisture-based weather. The French drain is a waterproofing method that is built onto the outside wall of your foundation that catches the water in the ground and moves it around and way from your basement's walls.

Interior Basement Waterproofing Systems

Technically the waterproofing that is done on the inside of your basement isn't waterproofing at all. This method is used to keep moisture from making its way into a typically functional basement and turning that basement into a cesspool of mold and mildew. Interior basement waterproofing systems involve coating your basement floors and walls with a sealant. The sealant makes it a lot more difficult for water to make it through the floors and walls of your basement. It can also keep mildew and mold from growing inside your basement.

If you want to be extra prepared you will use exterior and interior basement waterproofing methods. To do this, you will need to decide upon your waterproofing methods and communicate them to the contractors and builders of your home while it is being built. You will also want to hold off on deciding how to furnish and decorate your basement until after the basement waterproofing process is complete.

You can find out more about Basement Waterproofing Systems as well as much more information on all types of basement waterproofing and waterproofing products at http://www.BasementWaterproofingTips.com