Basement Waterproofing

Many businesses including restaurants and shops depend on their basements or cellars for storage. These spaces are invaluable for ensuring that the business remains stocked and is able to meet the demands of its customers.

However, cellars are prone to cold and damp. If the dampness is not dealt with properly, the area will become unusable. The business will suffer losses as their goods are damaged by moisture, mold and pests. It is therefore important to ensure that the space is waterproof.

Where is the moisture coming from?

Before you invest in basement waterproofing, it is important to understand where the moisture is coming from. This will guide you in the application of the best waterproofing system for your situation. There are two main sources of moisture in cellars.

  1. Ground water

This is water that occurs naturally in the ground. When it rains or when snow melts, the water seeps into the soil. This results in an increase in hydrostatic pressure in the soil as a result of the risen ground water table. Water can seep into the cellar through cracks or crevices in basement walls and floors causing the cellar to become damp.

  1. Moisture from the interior

There are various sources of moisture within cellars that can cause the cellar to become damp. These include utility lines, leaking pipes, open drains as well as poor ventilation in the cellar.

How to Deal with the Moisture

There are various methods of basement waterproofing that you will be presented with when you have a damp cellar. It is important to choose the method that is suitable for your situation.

  1. Waterproof the walls

This helps to stop water from entering the cellar through the walls. Waterproofing systems can be installed both internally and externally. They may include the installation of a waterproof barrier such as a high density membrane.

  1. Reduce condensation within the cellar

Everyday activities of your business such as cooking may be causing the build-up of humidity. This contributes to moisture in the cellar. You can prevent this build-up by providing adequate ventilation that draws the moisture out of the space.

  1. Damp proofing the floors

It is also important to ensure that moisture does not penetrate the cellar through the floors. You can do this by ensuring that the floors are damp proof. This includes installing a damp proof membrane in the floors.

Contact us today for more information!