Living with a wet basement can be a real headache. It is not just the musty smell and the unappealing sight of water stains or puddles. It also poses long-term risks like mold growth and damage to your foundation. The Crack Crew offers a range of wet basement solutions and techniques that can keep your basement dry and your foundation strong.
To learn more about our wet basement solutions or request a free consultation to find out what solutions are best for your project, contact our St. Louis basement waterproofing company online or by phone at 314-805-5692.
Our Wet Basement Solutions & Waterproofing Techniques
Our team utilizes the latest in wet basement solutions and waterproofing techniques to ensure lasting repairs. Determining the best solution will depend on a variety of factors, but our options include:
Exterior Waterproofing
This is a proactive method where the basement waterproofing is done outside the home. In order to employ this method, our team digs down to the foundation from outside the home, applies a waterproof coating to the walls, and installs a drainage system to divert water away.
Pros:
- Protects the structure of the house from outside water pressure
- Long-lasting solution with minimal maintenance
Cons:
- Can be costly due to the extensive excavation required
- Might disrupt landscaping around your home
Interior Waterproofing
If digging up your yard sounds like too much of a hassle or cost, interior waterproofing might be the way to go. This wet basement solution is less invasive than exterior methods and can be just as effective when done correctly.
Pros:
- Generally less expensive and quicker to implement
- Easy to maintain and check for issues
Cons:
- Does not protect the exterior walls, only mitigates the problem inside
- May require a sump pump, which can need regular maintenance
Crack Injection
St. Louis homes often develop foundation cracks due to soil movement or increased pressure from outside soil and water. The Crack Crew specializes in crack repair offering solutions for all types of foundation cracks. This includes crack injection, a method where we inject a special sealant into the cracks. The sealant expands and hardens, sealing the cracks and preventing water from seeping through.
Pros:
- Quick and relatively inexpensive
- Effectively seals cracks from the inside
Cons:
- Might not be a permanent solution for massive or severely distressed walls
- Effectiveness can vary depending on the crack size and location
Sump Pump Installation
A sump pump is designed to quickly remove water that collects in a sump basin and pump it outside the house. This can be an effective solution for addressing water problems in your basement.
Pros:
- Offers real-time protection against flooding
- Relatively easy to install and maintain
Cons:
- Needs electrical power to function, and could fail during a power outage unless supported with a battery backup
- Regular maintenance required to ensure it keeps running efficiently
Basement Dehumidification
Even after addressing leaks and water problems, moisture can still be an issue. That’s where dehumidification comes in. The Crack Crew often recommends installing a basement dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in check.
Pros:
- Helps prevent mold growth and improves air quality
- Easy to install and operate
Cons:
- Requires ongoing operation and maintenance
- Adds to your energy usage
Foundation Repair Techniques
While the above solutions are effective solutions for fixing a wet basement, what do you do if your wet basement is caused by something more significant, like foundation issues? The following are some foundation repair solutions that will secure your foundation and fix wet basement problems.
Piering and Anchoring
Foundation piering involves driving steel piers into the ground underneath your foundation until they reach stable soil. After this, hydraulic jacks lift the foundation into its original level, securing it. This can prevent basement leaks and be a permanent solution for fixing foundation and wet basement problems for good.
Pros:
- Long-term solution to foundation settlement
- Less disruptive compared to total foundation replacement
Cons
- Can be expensive and time-consuming
- Requires access to the areas where piers will be driven
Wall Anchors
Wall anchors are used to stabilize bowing basement walls and thus stop leaks as well. They involve inserting steel rods through the walls and anchoring them into the ground outside.
Pros:
- Permanently stabilizes walls and prevents future bowing
- Less invasive compared to interior or exterior brace systems
Cons
- Requires excavation in your yard
- May not be suitable for all types of foundations
Contact The Crack Crew for the Best Wet Basement Solutions in St. Louis
When it comes to leaky or wet basements, The Crack Crew offers wet basement solutions that fit every need and budget. From simple solutions like sealing cracks and adding vapor barriers to fixing underling foundation issues, we can do it all. Get in touch with our basement waterproofing company today to request a quote or learn more.