We loved our house from the first time we went through, but it really didn't have enough living space. We have worked on improving the layout of the home and increasing the living area of the home to create a modern and more pleasant layout to the home. We are really proud of how the job has turned out and we wanted to share some of the details of how the extension and layout changes where designed and constructed. This blog has some of the photos of our extension as well as tips that we have learnt along the journey,.
Construction & Contractors Blog
The basement is the lowest level of a structure, usually built entirely or partly below ground level. Basements by nature are susceptible to flooding and water infiltration, especially during heavy rains or rapid snow melts. In a bid to protect your basement from flooding, you may have come across waterproofing paints on the market. They are cheap and easy-to-apply paints which do not require homeowners to hire professional contractors.
Contrary to the belief of many homeowners, waterproofing paint does not fix the basement flooding problem. It may offer a quick fix, but eventually, you will be required to use alternative methods of waterproofing. Here are some of the reasons why waterproofing paint is not an ideal solution for your basement.
It's just paint
Waterproofing paint is just like standard paint. Most of the brands of waterproofing paint are just thicker versions of paint that you can use on your window shutters or kitchen walls to hold back moisture. Although paint has the capabilities to seal objects against moisture, it will only protect against moisture in the form of falling rain or snow. Its capabilities are limited when it comes to the kind of water that infiltrates your basement from the ground.
Blistering and peeling
Paint relies on its bond to the surface to which it is applied to remain intact. While it might hold the water back for some time, continued pressure and seepage will create a white efflorescence between the surface of the concrete and the paint. It will result in a large blister which will eventually flake and peel off. With time, all the paint will flake off leaving your basement vulnerable to flooding.
Increased hydrostatic pressure
Basement wall foundations have hollow cavities that build up with hydrostatic pressure in the presence of moisture. When the paint is applied to the surface of the cement, it traps moisture inside the foundation wall. Increased moisture content causes greater hydrostatic pressure which causes deterioration of the concrete and other components. Eventually, you will be faced with bigger structural problems to fix in addition to waterproofing.
Doesn't repair cracks
Waterproofing paint does not repair any cracks or fix leaks on your concrete floor. Even with its application, water will continue to seep through your concrete wall and eventually cause flooding of the basement. Once you have repaired the cracks, waterproofing paint becomes unnecessary. However, you can use it to reduce fungal smells on the surface of the walls.
As you undertake your basement waterproofing project, remember that quick fixes can cost you more money in the long run. Opt for reliable waterproofing methods that offer a permanent solution to the problem of basement flooding and water infiltration.
Share10 June 2016
