Prime Restoration provides the most highly rated water damage restoration and waterproofing services in East Spanish Fork and many surrounding areas. According to company owner Camren Harris, “We are experts in mold removal and repairing damage caused by flooding, fire, and smoke to commercial and residential properties. We’ve earned hundreds of five-star reviews from business owners and residents every year.”
The Prime Restoration experts seek to help their clients understand what to do to waterproof a basement. Here, they outline the first six steps in their waterproofing process for underground structures. They also explain what to avoid for first-time renovators.
The first step of waterproofing a basement is excavating around its prospective walls so a homeowner or contractor can install water-resistant material to shield it from flooding. Most states have a list of authorized materials and systems that DIYers can reference when selecting building materials. This list includes perforated pipes, crushed stone drains, porcelain tiles, and well-cut gravel.
The second step is running water through the basement wall and looking for fractures and cracks where moisture may seep through. Patience and a sharp eye are essential for this step as the homeowner needs to fill all fissures with hydraulic cement. This material is more efficient than standard caulk.
The third step is covering 100% of the wall surface area with a cement-based waterproof sealant. This material covers hairline fractures and seals off the concrete’s pores.
The fourth step of waterproofing a basement involves the application of an asphalt-modified polyurethane membrane. This membrane creates an elastomeric coating that flexes with the basement walls. As a result, it covers emerging fractures that may result from hurricanes, earthquakes, and other seismic activities.
The fifth step is installing a perforated custom-built drainage mat. This mat allows water to enter a drain structure without reaching the foundation.
The final step of what to do to waterproof a basement is installing a weeping tile or French drain. This device directs moisture from the surface to a pipe underneath the basement floor. In turn, this pipe expels the water onto a cleanout.
Most homeowners use gravel as a backfill because it is low-maintenance, cost-effective, and easy to install. Prime Restoration advises against using plastic or tar as waterproof coatings as they are prone to cracking and peeling.
Basement builders still confused about what to do to waterproof a basement can get help from the Prime Restoration team. They can contact Prime Restoration at (801) 509-6899 in East Spanish Fork, UT or visit their website at https://primerestorers.com/.
