Foundation Waterproofing in Baltimore and Surrounding Areas
A house’s foundation plays a pivotal role, setting the stage for the rest of the building and reinforcing everything above it. It also protects the house from moisture and keeps the soil at bay. Without a sound foundation, the property is at risk of collapse.
There are three standard foundations upon which a home can be built in Baltimore.
The most common is concrete slab foundations, which are relatively budget-friendly and sturdy. They can be built as a basement, requiring heavy equipment to move dirt, or on-grade, which is less involved.
Homes may be built on a crawl-space foundation typically constructed from cinder blocks. This foundation raises the home from two to four feet off the ground and offers the homeowner storage space.
The last type is a pier and beam foundation. The building rests on piers set into the soil to take on the building’s weight. It is raised about eighteen inches above the ground.
Reasons Why Foundation Waterproofing is Necessary
Many people believe that their foundation alone is enough to keep them safe. While it can neutralize various threats, it still needs some help. Namely, water damage can be a severe risk if the owner doesn’t take proper action. It can lead to large-scale flooding throughout the basement, soaking the floors, walls, and the rest of the house. Foundation waterproofing solves this problem. Here’s why this investment is beneficial:
No flooding from the ground:
While impossible to prevent all flooding, homeowners can minimize water intrusion from their home’s foundation. Homes built on moist land can significantly benefit from foundation waterproofing. Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake can install a reliable barrier that keeps water from compromising the foundation and entering the house.
Higher insurance claim probability:
In the event of natural disaster-related flooding, many families file insurance claims. Insurance companies send an adjuster to determine if the residents took sufficient action to protect their property. One of the factors they may look for is foundation waterproofing. Hence, installing this layer can boost people’s chances of getting a successful claim.
Good for health:
Mold is a serious health hazard. Unfortunately, mold grows wherever there are leaks and other moisture problems. Foundation waterproofing is the answer to these concerns. Lowering the risk of water intrusion and humidity inhibits mold growth.
Higher resale value:
Should a homeowner decide to sell their house, they can recoup the cost of waterproofing in the sale. The new homeowners gain the ultimate peace of mind, knowing their foundation is impervious to moisture.
Foundation Waterproofing Methods
Waterproof membranes:
Although this method requires some excavation, it’s a relatively non-invasive way to waterproof a basement. Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake digs soil away from the foundation to access the foundation walls. Then, our team installs waterproof rubber or honeycomb membranes, preventing water from permeating the basement.
Trench drain:
Trench drains are often found in commercial applications but also work well in residential settings. Like French drains, these have a moderate slope that directs rainwater or snowmelt to flow away from the home’s foundation. They also feature a grate that sits flush with the rest of the landscape. Baltimore residents can contact our team to install a trench drain for their homes.
French drain:
French drains are just as effective, if not more so, than waterproof membranes. They have specific slope requirements that depend on the land’s grade and drive water away from the foundation. Also, they’re designed to operate underground, so manufacturers use superior materials to make them ultra-durable. Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake has the tools and experience to install French drains easily.
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Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake - Foundation Waterproofing Experts in Baltimore
Foundation waterproofing can be a challenge; however, with Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake readily available, homeowners can be assured that their home is sufficiently protected. Contact us for recommendations of the best solution for your home. The result will be a sturdy, waterproof foundation that protects the home.