You work hard to make your basement the best basement in the neighborhood, but sometimes that basement can get flooded with water. This is not just an inconvenience; it’s a huge problem you need to address immediately. You need to find a way to get that water out of your basement waterproofing Pittsburgh and keep it out.
Basement waterproofing methods can vary depending on your needs and budget. Whatever they are, finding the best Pittsburgh waterproofing solution for your basement is essential if you want to protect your home from water damage.
Here is a list of the top 5 waterproofing solutions to use in your basement.
Waterproof Membrane
There are two types of membrane: bituminous and polyethylene. The bituminous membrane is made from coal tar, and it can withstand harsh weather conditions like snow and rain, as well as dirt and vegetation growth. The polyethylene membrane is made from plastic, and it is less expensive than the bituminous membrane. Membranes can be installed in two ways: lapping or welding.
Lapping is when the membranes overlap and are sealed with a sealant. Welding is when the membranes are melted together to create a watertight seal.
Both methods are effective, but welding is more durable because it forms a stronger bond.
Sump Pumps
A sump pump is a pump that removes water from a low-lying area, like a basement. Sump pumps can be manual or automatic. Manual pumps are operated by hand, and automatic pumps are activated when water reaches a certain level. Sump pumps are an effective waterproofing solution because they remove the water before it can cause damage.
Sump pump installation is one of the best basement waterproofing solutions to use, but you should install a backup system if the pump malfunctions. With a backup system, if the primary sump pump is broken or overflows, the secondary pump will kick on immediately. Basement walls can get damaged by moisture, so it’s essential to take measures to prevent water from seeping into the basement. A basement moisture barrier is an excellent way to protect your walls from moisture. Sump pump system installation is a great way to protect your basement from water damage.
Waterproofing Paint
Waterproofing paint is applied to concrete to prevent water from entering the concrete. A leaky basement can be caused by water seeping through the concrete, so waterproofing paint is an excellent solution to prevent this from happening.
There are two types of waterproofing paint: acrylic and epoxy. Acrylic paint is more durable, while epoxy paint can be applied to damp surfaces. Both of these paints are effective at keeping water out, but you must reapply them every year or two to maintain the effectiveness of the waterproofing paint. Basement walls are the most vulnerable to water damage, so it’s vital to apply waterproofing paint regularly. Basement waterproofing Pittsburgh companies can use a water-resistant coating on your basement walls.
Radiant Barriers
A radiant barrier is placed on an existing roof that reflects heat onto the heat source. This means that your basement doesn’t need to be cooled as much, saving you money on utilities. Radiant barriers can also serve as a waterproofing solution because they keep water from your basement.
Below is a list of some products that can be used as a radiant barrier:
- Metal sheets
- Reflective insulation
- Foil-faced blankets
- Rigid foam boards
You can find these online and at the home improvement store. Always make sure that the product you use is durable and will not rip if exposed to strong winds or other harsh weather conditions.
Waterproof Coatings
Waterproof coatings are applied by brush or roller, and they come in three types: elastomeric, solvent-based, and epoxy.
- Elastomeric coatings are elastic and can stretch with your roof.
- Solvent-based coatings are more durable, but they can be toxic.
- Epoxy coatings are the most durable, and they form a waterproof seal.
Waterproof coatings are a good solution for older homes because they can fix any damage that has been done to the roof. A wet basement can be a huge problem, not just for you but also for your whole neighborhood. If you live in a basement and it’s prone to flooding, then you need to find a way to waterproof it. Basement waterproofing solutions can be expensive, but it’s worth it to keep your home and possessions safe from water damage.
Conclusion
Waterproofing your basement can be a challenge, especially if you live in an older home that has been around for decades. There are many ways to keep water out of the basement and prevent it from seeping through concrete walls or damaging furniture. The five waterproofing solutions we have highlighted here should give you some ideas on how to protect your family’s most valuable asset: their home! These particular products work well at keeping water away from basements because they all provide different benefits such as preventing leaks, saving energy costs, and protecting against mold. Basement waterproofing Pittsburgh and foundation repair Pittsburgh are both essential to maintaining a healthy environment inside the house. Basement waterproofing also prevents any damage done by flooding or moisture build-up within the structure itself. If you’re still trying to find a way to protect your basement, then you might want to consider waterproofing paint or a radiant barrier. These two solutions are relatively inexpensive, making them excellent options for homeowners on a budget. Reputable waterproofing contractors will offer a wide range of services to help protect your basement from water damage.
