Introduction To Concrete Block Foundation Waterproofing

Since many people are aware that pressurized injection (epoxy and polyurethane) is a very economical way to stop basement leaks we receive numerous requests for the injection of concrete block foundations; unfortunately, pressurized injection is not a viable option for concrete block foundations because the blocks are hollow and it is impossible to control where the injected resins will travel.

For concrete block (and stone) foundations there are only 2 repair options:

· Internal de-watering; and

· External excavation and waterproofing.

Note: Some people, and companies, would have you believe that the application of a sealer on the inside surface of a concrete block or cinder block wall will remedy your leaking basement. This type of block foundation repair will, in fact, trap water within the blocks. As concrete is a porous material, the resultant pooling of water within the block wall will accelerate the deterioration of the blocks, leading to far greater repair costs as time passes. It is our view that you need to prevent water from entering in the first place, or you provide for internal drainage; both of these waterproofing approaches will greatly diminish the rate of deterioration of your foundation. We've seen numerous cases where the walls need to be rebuilt or reinforced to avoid foundation failure; the cost of these types of repairs are much greater than the cost of waterproofing your basement; you want to avoid such a situation at all costs.

When considering which approach to take, either external waterproofing or internal de-watering, a number of factors need to be taken into account:

· Whether the basement is finished or unfinished;

· Whether there is visible mold inside the home;

· The condition of the concrete blocks (level of deterioration visible externally and internally, if possible);

· The accessibility of the areas requiring waterproofing;

· The landscaping surrounding the home (concrete walkways, decks, fence locations, etc.,);

· Your willingness to destroy the landscaping around your home, or to fully remove the finished basement walls;

· Your level of concern with respect to the existence of mould behind finished basement walls;

· Your budget;

· Whether you are pragmatic or a purist;

· Whether or not structural reinforcement of the wall is required;

· The need for a window well drain;

· The desired warranty duration;

· The condition of the existing weeping tile and the efficiency of the existing storm water drainage infrastructure;

· The extent to which waterproofing is required; and

· The contractor you choose (cheapest price in town - locates done - Master Drainlayer on staff - insured - etc.,).

Selecting your best option should always be done in consultation with a true waterproofing professional as many contractors can excavate a wall and do work that will last a couple of years. If not done properly, the contractor will have to do the entire job all over again; if you don't choose a reputable and established contractor with an excellent rating from the Better Business Bureau, how likely is it that your contractor will acknowledge that they are responsible and come back and do the work again at no charge to you? Additionally, waterproofing work requires skill and experience; the truth is that most homeowners can't tell the difference between proper execution and a lousy job; consequently, your financial risks can be significant.

To get the work done properly, with a real warranty, call AquaGuard Injection & Waterproofing™ today at 1.888.284.2384.