Basement Waterproofing Services in Philadelphia, PA

What is Basement Waterproofing?

Basement waterproofing is a vital procedure overseen by basement waterproofing professionals, designed to thwart water infiltration into a building’s lowermost level, whether residential or commercial. This comprehensive process entails employing various methods and materials to establish a formidable barrier against moisture, ensuring a consistently dry basement environment. The approach typically encompasses tasks like sealing cracks in the foundation walls and floors, installing interior drainage systems such as French drains, and applying waterproof coatings to surfaces.

These measures collectively address basement moisture problems, safeguarding against potential structural deterioration, mold growth, and other water-related issues. Enlisting the expertise of experienced waterproofing contractors, like Rightway Waterproofing, to execute these critical tasks ensures a thorough and effective solution for maintaining a dry basement and preserving the integrity of the building’s foundation.

Interior Drains

One of the most effective ways to waterproof your basement from the inside is with an interior drain system, also known as an interior French drain. Here’s how it works:

• The Drain Pipe: Imagine a perforated pipe, like a long, hollow tube with tiny holes, installed around the edge of your basement floor, where the floor meets the foundation wall. This pipe collects water that seeps through the foundation walls or floor.
• Creating the Channel: To install the drain pipe, a section of concrete is removed along the perimeter of the basement floor. This creates a channel where the pipe can be placed. The channel is then sloped slightly, like a ramp, to ensure water flows freely towards a specific location.
• Dimpled Drainage Sheeting: A special type of plastic sheeting, called Miradrain, is laid at the base of the wall and under the slab edge. Think of Miradrain as a sheet with bumps that create space for water to drain. This allows water seeping through the foundation walls to reach the drain pipe easily.
• Draining the Block Walls: In some cases, holes may be drilled into the cinderblocks of the foundation wall. This allows any water trapped within the blocks to drain out and flow into the drain pipe along the floor.
• The Sump Pump: All the water collected by the drain pipe is directed to a sump pump, a small pump specifically designed for basements. The sump pump then discharges the water out of the basement, typically through a pipe leading away from the foundation, following local building codes.
• Finishing Touches: Once the drain system is installed, the concrete floor is patched and sealed. Our team will also clean up any debris created during the process.

An interior drain system is a highly effective way to keep your basement dry and prevent water damage. If you’re concerned about moisture in your basement, contact Rightway Waterproofing for a free consultation!

But this isn’t where the problems of wet basements end because of hydrostatic pressure!

Hydrostatic Pressure and its Effect on Your Home

Water begins pushing against the foundation of your Philadelphia or New Jersey house and up through the floor, causing hydrostatic pressure. This constant pressure will eventually lead to water seepage, cracked walls and/or floors, deteriorating foundations, and settling of homes (where the house actually sinks into the ground).

Water Management Versus Waterproofing

Waterproofing is actually a loosely used term because it’s impossible to totally “waterproof” a home. The key to keeping your Philadelphia home dry and sound is water management.

The process of water management is simple: collect the water before it has a chance to even touch the foundation of your home. This is done with a sub-floor pressure relief system. The goal is to allow the water to naturally go on its path into a drainage system and have the drainage system pump the water away from your home with the use of a sump pump.

Sub-Floor Pressure Relief Systems

These systems work from the inside out to address hydrostatic pressure and keep your basement dry. They’re typically used in conjunction with other waterproofing solutions, like exterior drainage systems installed by professional waterproofing contractors.

How Sub-Floor Pressure Relief Systems Work:

1. A network of drain pipes is installed beneath the basement floor, along the perimeter where the floor meets the basement walls.
2. These pipes collect any water that seeps up through the floor due to hydrostatic pressure.
3. The collected water is then directed to a sump pump, a small pump specifically designed for basements.
4. The sump pump then discharges the water from the foundation, typically through a pipe leading away from the house.

Benefits of Sub-Floor Pressure Relief Systems:

• Reduces pressure on basement walls: By collecting water under the floor, these systems help relieve the pressure pushing against your foundation walls, preventing leaks and cracks.
• Works with other waterproofing solutions: Sub-floor pressure relief systems can be a great complement to exterior waterproofing solutions installed by a professional. They provide an extra layer of defense against water intrusion.
• Creates a drier basement environment: By removing water from under the floor, these systems help create a drier and healthier basement environment.

Sub-floor pressure relief systems are not a DIY project. They require expertise and experience to ensure proper installation and functionality.

Which Basement Water Management System Is Right for You?

Rightway Waterproofing specializes in many different types of water management systems. Depending on whether the water is mostly on the floor or in the basement walls and what type of foundation you have, our highly trained field inspectors will determine the best, most economical method of keeping your basement dry for the life of your home!

Rightway Basement Water Management Services in Philadelphia, PA, and the Surrounding Areas

Rightway Waterproofing has over 25 years of experience managing water as a basement waterproofing company. Our basement waterproofing system is guaranteed for as long as you own the home, as well as one subsequent owner! Stop worrying about the next rainstorm or big snow thaw! Give us a call today for a free, no-obligation, in-home estimate.