Contact Us For Your Free Evaluation Get a Free Estimate

Foundation Authority

leak sealing

Waterproofing: What It Is and Why You Need It

Waterproofing is an important part of keeping your home in good condition and protecting it from water damage. If your home is not properly waterproofed, it can be susceptible to leaks, flooding, and other water-related problems.

If you’re not sure if your home needs waterproofing, there are a few things you can look for, such as cracks in the foundation, leaks in the basement, or dampness in the walls. If you find any of these problems, it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible.

What is waterproofing?

Waterproofing is the process or treatment of making an object or structure waterproof, or resistant to water. Waterproofing is done by selecting the right material. The most common waterproofing materials are plastic, rubber, asphalt, and glass. These materials are used because they are impermeable to water, meaning they do not allow water to pass through them. Waterproofing is also done by applying a waterproofing product. There are many different waterproofing products on the market, such as paints, coatings, and sealants. These products can be applied to the surface of an object or structure to create a water-resistant barrier.

Why is waterproofing necessary?

Waterproofing is necessary to protect buildings and objects from water damage. If a home or building is not properly waterproofed, it can be susceptible to leaks, flooding, and other water-related problems. Waterproofing is also important for protecting clothing, shoes, and tents from water damage. Waterproofing these items helps to extend their life and keep them looking new.

The benefits of waterproofing

Waterproofing your home is a wise investment that will protect your home from water damage and keep it in good condition for years to come.

How to waterproof your home

If you think your home needs waterproofing, there are a few things you can do to waterproof it. One way to waterproof your home is to apply a waterproofing product to the surface of your home. Another way to waterproof your home is to select the right materials for your home. The most common waterproofing materials are plastic, rubber, asphalt, and glass.

Waterproofing your home or building is all about keeping your property and belongings safe from water damage. Visit www.foundationauthoritymi.com if you need your home or building waterproofed.

Eliminating Standing Water

Standing water may not seem like a big deal, but it can cause a good deal of damage when left alone near your foundation. Rainwater that collects and pools up near the foundation of your home can enter into the concrete, filling up the pores that it finds inside. Over time, this is enough to break down the concrete and will cause the foundation to crack. 

Standing water in the winter is going to be even worse. The water will still seep into the cracks and pores of the concrete foundation. But when it freezes, that same water will push the concrete out, rather than break it down. The ice will cause swelling in the foundation, pushing everything up in the home and causing seams in the ceiling and walls. 

There are different methods you can use to remove the standing water from near your foundation. These include:

  • Change the landscaping to slope away from the home, making it harder for water to sit. 
  • Use gutters that direct the water away from the home. 
  • Consider a retaining wall to move water and soil to the street or the backyard. 

The goal is to keep water from sitting near the foundation of your home. Any slope can help, as can any change to your landscaping that will move the rain or other water far from the home. A professional will be able to help you see where problem areas for standing water can form and will help you create a solution to keep your foundation safe. 

Foundation Repair Never Been So Simple

Foundation Authority is ready to help give your home the stable foundation that you need. Big or small we have the necessary tools that will help fix up your foundation in order to keep you happy. Our services include waterproofing, helical pier installation, fixing bowing/retaining walls, etc. Contact us today to get started on your project!

https://www.foundationauthoritymi.com/contact/

Customer Interview with Omar George

In 1996, Omar George dreamt of investing along Woodward Avenue. In 2021, Omar fulfilled that dream and purchased two buildings. Unfortunately, flooding in the area caused severe water damage in one of the buildings, and Omar thought his dream was destroyed. After searching for a contractor, a friend suggested Foundation Authority, and in one week, the building was cleaned up and back to normal. Omar is grateful to Foundation Authority for dedicating their time to fixing his dream.

5 Tips to Help You Monitor Your Foundation

Learn how to stay on top of your foundation issues before they arise. It’s tough to tell when a crack in your foundation is something to worry about, or when you can repair it yourself. After reading this blog article, we hope you will have more knowledge on how to monitor your foundation.

Monitor new cracks for expansion
The best way to check a new crack for expansion is to mark on your foundation with a pencil or sharpie and take note of the distance between the crack. Continue this every month for 8-12 months. If it expands over a ¼ inch, it’s time to call a professional.

Seal all cracks where water can leak in
Cracks are normal in your foundation as it moves over time. If the cracks are larger than 1/8th of an inch then water can leak in. Simply seal the cracks with a concrete compatible caulk and that will do the trick.

Look for bulges in your walls, if there are cracks you need an expert to look at it
A bulge in your wall indicates that clay in your walls has begun to collect moisture and expand, putting pressure on your wall. This is no serious matter as your wall can collapse, causing lots of damage. You can measure to see if there is a bulge by grabbing a level and putting it against the wall to see if it is level. If you notice a bulge, it’s best to have a professional look at it to ensure there are no major safety concerns.

Note all horizontal cracks
Vertical cracks are common as foundations shift and often do not cause issues. Horizontal cracks are often a result of a structural issue and need immediate attention. Structural issues can be fixed with pier pushes, excavation, and more. Call the experts at Foundation Authority when you notice horizontal crack issues.

Call the pro’s for cracks ½ inch or wider
If you find cracks around your home that are wider than ½ of an inch, you need to call an expert ASAP. Cracks ranging from 1/8th to 1/4th of an inch are not so serious, but a ½ an inch crack is a serious concern that needs a professional eye.

If you need more information or need an inspection. Give the foundation experts at Foundation Authority a call at (586) 228-6500.

How To Prepare Your Foundation for Winter

Figure of house and warm scarf on table. Concept of heating season

The winter season is a rough time for your foundation. As the soil gets colder and moves around, your foundation shifts, and water begins to drain through the cracks and gaps in your foundation. This leaking water can lead to pest infestation, dangerous mildew and mold unsafe for pets and family, and water leakage that can damage items in your basement. So, what can be done to prevent this?
Foundation and Crack repair and Basement Waterproofing
Dealing with water damage is no fun. If you want a solution to your problem, contact the experts at Foundation Authority to get the waterproofing and repair services you need to keep your home dry. Foundation Authority’s skilled and knowledgeable technicians install state-of-the-art basement waterproofing systems that permanently stop foundation water leaks. We have helped many homeowners reclaim their basements from water. We offer complete services in basement waterproofing and repair designed to fit your home or business needs.
When you need a dry basement, give us a call at (586) 228-6500. Whether you need a permanent or temporary service, Foundation Authority has the solution for you!

Call Now Button(586) 228-6500