Waterproofing Basics

It has been estimated that over 80% of all builder claims and litigation are the result of water intrusion and the damage that results in new homes or commercial structures. Moisture intrusion and dampness are some of the leading causes of mold and mildew growth, a source of ill health effects and unhealthy living space environments. Proper waterproofing and attention to detail during the construction process can reduce or eliminate most sources of moisture infiltration.

When building a new structure, there are many decisions and specifications to make. One of the most important and of least attention is the waterproofing membrane on the foundation walls. In the past, many homeowners assumed their home was waterproofed when in fact only a cheap damproofing was the material applied. Damproofing is a black, usually solvent diluted, asphalt cement or other coating material which has little if any elastomeric properties, is usually brittle, and will fail to bridge cracks should they occur and they usually always do. Damproofing’s thin consistency results in minimal film thicknesses on the application wall, and it’s likely to prevent only a small amount of moisture vapor from intrusion into the structure. Builders, many times in the past, paid little attention to waterproofing basement walls. And some still today neglect this fundamental process as they look to reduce costs. Here are some basic waterproofing items to ensure you get the most protection from your project.

• Choose a trained and authorized contractor using a reputable waterproofing product.
• Check to see your contractor is properly licensed and carries both workers compensation and liability insurance.
• Plan the project so proper grading and drainage are designed in from the start.
• Check the quality of your job to ensure the proper amount of membrane is applied to your job and a quality drainage board/tile system is installed.
• Check and seal any penetrations into the membrane through the wall are sealed tightly using approved sealing methods.
• Backfill carefully so as to prevent damage to the waterproofing membrane, drain tile system, and the wall itself.
• Grade slope to maintain positive drainage away from the foundation.
• Maintain slope away from foundation when landscaping or mulching, keeping level at least 6 inches below sill plate or siding.
• Use proper gutters, downspouts, and route water away from the foundation at least 10 feet.

While it is impossible to list all the precautions to use, these simple basics will help ensure you get the best performance from your waterproofing investment. HouseGuard™ Complete Waterproofing System™ provides some of the best protection for your investment dollar. Choose HouseGuard™ waterproofing products whenever you want the comfort of staying dry, above or below the grade. See the specific individual sections for a more in detail look at the process and our products.