Why does my basement leak? Basements leak for number of reasons. Hydrostatic pressure can build up under the floor or behind the walls, high humidity, even a nearby underground stream can introduce water into your basement. Inferior or improperly installed waterproofing and deteriorated sealing on the outside foundation walls may also be at fault. At DrainCom, we're very familiar with these types of basement waterproofing challenges. Give us a call so we can inspect the situation in person and then suggest remedies.

What will it cost to have my basement waterproofed?

The costs can vary greatly depending on the problem, the amount of work needed and the method used. DrainCom will send out a trained technician to ascertain what may be the cause of the water intrusion. Only then can we discuss with you how best to waterproof your basement and what the cost and time factors will be.

How can I tell where the water is coming from?

It's not easy to know the source of water entering a home through the basement or foundation; often special diagnostic tools are required. DrainCom's technicians are specially trained in the use of such equipment and once the problem is diagnosed, will be able to suggest what options are available to solve it to your satisfaction.

What happens if I decide to wait to get my basement fixed?

Ignoring basement problems won't make them go away - just the opposite. Even worse is neglecting a possible problem and then finishing your basement; a nightmare scenario if there ever was! Besides obvious water damage, persistent dampness and excess moisture in the basement can give rise to mold growth, which has been linked to several health hazards. If you suspect you may have a basement water problem or if you are considering finishing your basement, Give us a call - a trained DrainCom technician can tell you what, if anything, you may be dealing with BEFORE a real problem rears its head.

What is Waterproofing?

Waterproofing is a process designed to prevent water penetration into your basement, even under wet conditions after heavy rain storms or during spring thaws. Once your basement has been waterproofed by DrainCom's trained experts, you have the confidence in knowing that your basement can be used like any other room in your home.

What is Damp-proofing?

Damp-proofing is usually done in situations where direct water penetration is not the source of moisture in a basement. Damp-proofing is typically cheaper to apply, but its effectiveness is limited because the tar-based applications will only "retard" moisture penetration, not prevent it. In addition, damp-proofing products can become brittle once they cure. As the home or building foundation settles and hairline cracks appear, the tar-based coating will not stretch to bridge the cracks and this allows moisture to penetrate into the basement. Many homeowners who have problems with a wet basement and dig up the exterior foundation find that these tar based products have started to flake off the wall within a few years of being applied. DrainCom recommends that waterproofing be considered over damp-proofing as it is much more effective in the long term.

Can you fix the musty smell in my basement?

A musty smell is a sign of dampness, even if your basement doesn’t seem to have a problem with leaks. This smell is caused by mold growth in damp areas and fungus spores in the air, either of which can contribute to health problems such as allergies and asthma. DrainCom's proven basement waterproofing techniques will seal the walls and floor of your basement, making the air fresh again.

What is the white powdery substance on my basement walls?

This is called "efflorescence" and it is a sure sign of dampness in concrete walls. Moisture coming through the walls from the soil surrounding the building foundation causes a chemical breakdown of the bonding agent in the concrete. The white substance is free lime leaching out of the wall. Efflorescence weakens the concrete, and if ignored, can eventually compromise the structural integrity of the wall. If you notice efflorescence on your unfinished basement walls, give DrainCom a call. We can suggest a number of treatments that can be applied to stop the efflorescence by reducing the dampness at the source.

Can you stop my basement from leaking from the inside?

Yes we can! DrainCom uses a range of effective products to seal your basement walls and floor, prevent mold and mildew growth, and take that musty smell out of your house. Once we've waterproofed your basement, you'll be both surprised and pleased that so much new space has been made available for you to use - not to mention the added value a finished basement will add to your home when it comes time to sell.