Perfectly waterproofing a basement in Saint-Antoine-Sur-Richelieu, Quebec
Challenge
Persistent water infiltration in their basement. This problem, if left unaddressed, could lead to a cascade of structural concerns, including foundational damage, mold growth, and a compromised living environment.
Initially, the homeowner considered installing a basic exterior French drain, a common method for managing water around the foundation. French drains work by redirecting water away from the foundation through a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe. While effective in certain conditions, an exterior French drain alone may not provide comprehensive protection, especially if groundwater levels rise above the foundation level or the drain becomes clogged over time. This system also requires invasive excavation, which can be costly and disruptive to landscaping and hardscaping elements around the home.
Our specialist carefully inspected the foundation for visible cracks, gaps, and signs of deterioration. Over time, water pressure from the outside soil can force water through even the smallest of cracks, leading to progressive structural damage. The homeowner’s existing sump pump system and any previously installed drainage solutions were evaluated for functionality. In this case, the sump pump was outdated and unable to handle the volume of water entering the basement, often leading to pump failure during peak water infiltration periods.
Solution
Based on the findings from the inspection, our specialist recommended a comprehensive, multi-faceted waterproofing solution to provide long-term protection against water infiltration. The goal was not only to remove existing water but to prevent future infiltration, thus ensuring the basement remained dry under various conditions.
WaterGuard Interior Drainage System: Instead of relying solely on an exterior French drain, we proposed the installation of a WaterGuard interior drainage system. Unlike exterior systems, WaterGuard is designed to sit along the perimeter of the basement, just above the footing of the foundation. The system collects and directs water to the sump pump, ensuring efficient drainage without the risk of clogging from soil or roots. The installation of WaterGuard requires minimal disruption, as it can be installed without the extensive excavation required for exterior French drains.
Next, a TripleSafe sump pump system was recommended. This advanced system includes three pumps in one unit: a primary pump, a secondary high-capacity pump, and a battery-operated backup pump for power outages. This setup ensures continuous protection even during extreme conditions when power might be lost due to storms. The primary pump handles the usual water flow, while the secondary pump activates during high water volumes, ensuring that even the heaviest water infiltration is managed effectively.
CleanSpace Wall Membrane: To further enhance protection, we suggested the installation of the CleanSpace wall membrane, a heavy-duty vapor barrier that covers the interior walls of the basement. This membrane prevents water and moisture from seeping through the porous concrete walls and directs any condensation into the WaterGuard system. Additionally, the CleanSpace membrane serves as a mold prevention measure, as it keeps the basement environment dry by blocking humidity and dampness, both of which are primary contributors to mold growth.
