As a homeowner, ensuring the safety and structural integrity of your home is top priority. However, two of the most common issues that can cause significant damage to your home, and potentially harm you and your family, are basement water damage and radon exposure. Waterproofing your basement and mitigating radon levels are essential home maintenance tasks that can protect you from potential harm and save you thousands in repair costs. Let’s explore Standard Water’s solutions for basement waterproofing and radon mitigation, including installation, maintenance, and key considerations for homeowners.
1. Typical waterproofing systems:
The first step in basement waterproofing is identifying the source of water intrusion. Common sources include plumbing issues, foundation cracks, and drainage problems. Typical waterproofing systems include exterior or interior foundation waterproofing. Exterior waterproofing is typically more expensive as it requires excavation. Interior waterproofing is a more cost-effective option and involves sealing cracks and installing a drainage system. The University of Minnesota recommends an interior sub-slab drainage and sump system.
2. Sump pump installations:
A sump pump is a key component of any waterproofing system. A sump pump collects water in a pit and pumps it out of the basement, preventing water damage and mold growth. Sump pumps come in two types: pedestal and submersible. Pedestal pumps sit outside of the pit, while submersible pumps are placed inside the pit. Submersible pumps are typically more expensive but perform better in terms of reliability and noise level. Standard Water Control uses an excellent submersible sump pump with a 3 year warranty.
For extra peace of mind, consider our Battery Backup System. A battery backup system serves as an emergency power source during outages. When installed with a second sump pump, it allows your system to continue pumping even when the electricity has gone out and the primary pump stops. This can be invaluable during heavy rainstorms when the power might go out.
In case of flooding, when your sump pump needs to work even harder than usual our battery backup system will use the second discharge pipe we installed with your waterproofing system to double your pumping capacity. This feature came in real handy when we had the wettest spring on record. The homes with battery backup systems reported they were safe, and dry.
3. Radon mitigation strategies:
Radon is a colorless and odorless gas that naturally occurs in the environment. It can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation, and prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can increase your risk of lung cancer. Radon mitigation involves reducing the levels of radon in your home to safe levels. Common radon mitigation strategies include active soil depressurization, which involves creating a vacuum beneath the foundation to prevent the gas from entering your home, and ventilation systems, which bring in fresh air and remove contaminated air.
Standard’s basement waterproofing system is a perfect match for our Radon Mitigation system. The waterproofing system is sealed so the Radon system can more efficiently draw soil gasses from underneath the basement floor and deposit them outside your home.
4. Choosing a professional waterproofing and radon mitigation contractor:
While some projects can be undertaken as a DIY project, waterproofing and radon mitigation are best left to professionals. When choosing a contractor, do your due diligence and ask for references, insurance and licensing credentials, and a written estimate. Additionally, look for contractors who specialize in basement waterproofing and radon mitigation services, as they will have the most experience and expertise in these areas.
5. Maintenance considerations:
Once you’ve installed a waterproofing and radon mitigation system, it’s important to perform regular maintenance to ensure their continued effectiveness. Sump pumps should be inspected annually and any debris removed, and battery backups should be tested. Radon mitigation systems should also be checked regularly to ensure the levels of radon remain within safe limits. Additionally, inspect your foundation walls for cracks and ensure your drainage system is functioning properly.
Conclusion:
Basement waterproofing and radon mitigation are essential components of maintaining a safe and healthy home. Standard Water’s waterproofing and radon mitigation strategies are all effective solutions for protecting your home and family. When choosing a professional contractor, do your research and look for those who specialize in these services. And once your systems are in place, perform regular maintenance to ensure continued functionality. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure the safety and structural integrity of your home for years to come.
Contact Standard Water today for a free consultation!