Basement Waterproofing Products: Retaining Wall & Raft Repairs

Water in the soil causes hydrostatic pressure to be exerted underneath basement floors and walls. This hydrostatic pressure can force water in through cracks, which can cause major structural damage as well as mold, decay, and other moisture-related problems.

This page specifically focuses on solutions for  retaining wall and raft repairs, common causes of basement leaks.

Understanding Basement Leaks

Before diving into specific products, it’s crucial to understand why your basement might be leaking. Here are some common culprits:

Cracks in foundation walls: Over time, foundations can develop cracks due to settling, hydrostatic pressure (pressure from water in the soil), or improper construction. These cracks can allow water to seep into your basement.

Faulty drainage: If the ground around your home slopes towards the foundation, or if your gutters are clogged or improperly directed, water can pool around the foundation and eventually find its way into your basement.

Leaks around pipes and utility entrances: The areas where pipes and utilities enter your basement can be vulnerable to leaks if not properly sealed.

Porous concrete: Basement walls made of concrete can be susceptible to water seepage, particularly if they haven’t been properly sealed with a waterproofing membrane.

Retaining Wall & Raft Leaks: Specific Challenges

Retaining walls: These walls hold back soil on a slope and are often located near basements. Cracks in retaining walls can allow water to seep behind the wall and put pressure on your foundation, leading to leaks in your basement.

Raft foundations: These flat concrete slabs poured directly on the ground can be susceptible to leaks if there are cracks in the slab itself, or if waterproofing between the slab and the soil is compromised.

Basement Waterproofing Products for Retaining Walls & Rafts

Choksey Chemicals offers a wide range of high-quality basement waterproofing products  to address leaks caused by retaining wall and raft foundation issues. Here are some of our most effective solutions:

Membrane  waterproofing: This method involves protecting the structure using pre-formed waterproofing membrane like HDPE or TPO membranes to the exterior of the foundation wall. It may be necessary for extensive leaks or when access to the interior of the basement is limited.

Cementitious waterproofing coatings: These coatings are applied directly to basement walls and foundations to create a watertight barrier. They are ideal for sealing cracks and preventing water seepage. Choksey Chemicals offers waterproofing and construction chemical solutions to suit your needs and budget.

Polyurethane injection grouting: This is a specialized technique for injecting polyurethane foaming resin into cracks and voids in concrete. Polyurethane resin when contacted by water expands to form a hard foam, effectively sealing the leak and preventing further water intrusion.

Choosing the Right Basement Waterproofing Products

The best  basement waterproofing products for your specific situation will depend on the nature and severity of the leak,  as well as your budget. Here are some factors to consider:

The location and size of the leak: Small cracks may be addressed with a cementitious pressure grouting, while larger cracks or leaks may require polyurethane injection grouting.

The condition of your foundation walls: If your foundation walls are in good condition, a topical waterproofing coating may be sufficient. However, if the walls are badly cracked or spalling, a more comprehensive solution may be necessary.

Benefits of Using Basement Waterproofing Products

Investing in  basement waterproofing products offers numerous benefits for your buildings health

Prevents water damage: By sealing leaks, you can protect your basement from water damage, which can lead to mold growth, rot, and structural issues

Protection against Structural damage : Water damage can compromise the structural integrity of your home or building, but waterproofing can help prevent this damage and extend the life of your foundation.

Improves indoor air quality: Waterproofing your basement can help reduce moisture levels and prevent mildew growth, which can improve the overall air quality in your home or buildingBetter lifespan of basement floors :  A dry basement is a valuable asset to any home. Moisture can cause damage to basement floors over time, but waterproofing can help prevent this damage and extend the lifespan of your floors.

less