How can I waterproof my basement again?

If the cause of your wet basement is infiltrating moisture, then you will likely receive one of the following three common diagnoses:

• Penetrating damp occurs when external walls are no longer able to keep moisture out, especially during rainy periods. This problem can become severe, even penetrating inside walls, and can lead to freezing and cracking in winter.
• Another cause is groundwater, which can enter the basement due to a poor foundation or cracks in the walls.
• Finally, bagged or seeping water can sink down through the walls. This happens especially after heavy precipitation.

Only a specialist can say with certainty whether it is infiltrating moisture. Usually the solution here is to waterproof your basement. But how does such basement waterproofing work? There are two options for that.

In the moisture control world, the classic method of waterproofing basement walls is known as 'basement framing'. In this approach, basement walls are waterproofed by cementing. The basement waterproofing process involves several steps, including the application of fixing layers, quick cement and hydraulic waterproofing mortars. We summarize:

• First, moisture experts accurately assess the specific cause, extent of the moisture problem and groundwater pressure. To do this, the existing cladding is thoroughly removed to make the substrate clearly visible. This analysis provides an opportunity to estimate what solution is required.
• A waterproof plaster is then applied in several layers to both the basement walls and the floor.
• When fully cured, these layers combine to form a strong and moisture-resistant barrier.
• This waterproof layer prevents rainwater or soil moisture from seeping in.

In the case of a conventional basement drainage procedure according to the traditional method, a pump housing is embedded in the floor to collect water, followed by the application of bubble wrap. This proceeds as follows:

• The bubble liner contains a specific structure of small channels. These channels serve as a means of collecting groundwater and directing it to a central drainage pit. This drain pit is strategically placed at the lowest point of the basement.
• A water pump then pumps the water from the collector through a drain, often equipped with sensors for automatic operation.
• Finally, the moisture expert applies a new concrete layer on top of the studded membrane. By efficiently draining groundwater under this new floor, floor drainage is a sustainable solution that also remains invisible.

Finally, it offers AquaConsult a unique method to waterproof a basement. We again place a pump house in the floor where the water is collected, and after several measurements we fit the floor with a laser. Then we place certified ceramic tiles that are 60 x 60 x 2 inches in size. What's nice? You can choose the color of the tiles yourself.