Foundation support starts with the waterproofing work that takes place during the initial build. Although concrete is a resilient support system, it can also be susceptible to water damage when left unprotected.
When a foundation problem materializes, an entire home or building could be at risk. Most issues that develop involve water, including the wet soil underneath the concrete that causes swelling and strength loss.
If concrete isn’t kept dry, it can cause mold and mildew to form. Not only can that cause the basement or crawlspace to develop musty odours, but it also creates another risk factor that could compromise the foundation’s integrity.
Here are the facts that you need to know about foundation support so that you can protect your home or business appropriately.
Every Building Benefits from Foundation Waterproofing
Foundation waterproofing in Toronto protects all forms of concrete support, even if your home is built on a slab. Since moisture develops at ground level and underneath the soil, appropriate protection layers are necessary to prevent water’s erosive tendencies from affecting the structure.
Any below-grade room or space benefits from foundation waterproofing. If you had a basic waterproofing membrane installed, it should last at least ten years. Periodic inspections ensure that these elements continue to protect.
Foundation Movement Is Possible Without Waterproofing
Ground movement happens in Toronto and everywhere else on our planet. It’s a fact of life. When your foundation doesn’t have critical waterproofing support, it could be more susceptible to shifts than other structures.
High-quality waterproofing services work to prevent leaks in your foundation or slab, helping to avoid ground movement from happening. This service works with the drainage around your property to ensure severe damage doesn’t occur.
Concrete Isn’t a Waterproof Product
Concrete becomes porous when it dries. That means water can find a way to get through a foundation wall to create leaks inside. Builders use this material for its durability, but waterproofing is necessary to avoid ongoing water-related issues.
Some concrete mixes include waterproofing materials for more resiliency, but it is always a good idea to review your protection levels to prevent unexpected damage to a home or commercial building.
Several Waterproof Barriers Are Available
When your foundation requires an update to its waterproofing defences, or you’ve got a new home or commercial building getting built, several barrier options are available to consider.
You can choose a prefabricated sheet membrane system, one that uses a fluid-applied approach, or improve drainage around the structure.
Each method has specific pros and cons to consider. Your experienced foundation waterproofing specialist in Toronto can provide an expert evaluation, provide an accurate estimate, and start working toward the outcomes you want.
Mold and Mildew Form Quickly
It takes about two days for mold and mildew to form when water damage occurs. Once you see it form on your foundation, you could experience respiratory issues, increases in allergy symptoms, and other potential health hazards.
Even if breathing issues don’t develop, a home with mold in the foundation tends to smell musty persistently.
Cleaning and waterproofing these surfaces can help the concrete stay healthy and prevent more moisture from coming inside.
Waterproofing Locations Are Variable
When your property requires waterproofing support, the positioning of the support products depends on your situation.
A positive-side application places the membrane along the foundation’s exterior. This option is used most often in places where the soil tends to be corrosive, or in areas that go through extensive freezing and thawing cycles throughout the year.
With negative-side waterproofing applications, the product gets applied to the interior. The goal of this service is to prevent water from seeping through the foundation into the basement, crawlspace, or below-ground floor.
A third option is called blindside waterproofing, but it occurs before the foundation is built. It’s used in places where a high density of structures exists, or soil disruption limitations are necessary for the building project.
Hire an Experienced Professional for Updates
If you suspect foundation problems are forming because you see cracks forming around windows or doorways, it is crucial to have your foundation evaluated immediately. Working with a professional waterproofing company ensures that you receive appropriate service and application for your specific situation.
Patching cracks with paint or compound isn’t a sufficient fix for waterproofing issues. When leaks start appearing, a professional contractor can fix the problem, repair the concrete, and provide waterproofing services to limit the risk factors for future issues.
Foundation waterproofing is an essential service that homes and commercial buildings need throughout their lives. If your structure is more than ten years old, it could require an update to protect it from the upcoming seasonal moisture changes.
