Amherst Wet Basement Solutions

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Help with Water Proofing Your Amherst Basement

SERVPRO Can Utilize Many Techniques to Help with Moisture and Water Conditions in Basements and Crawl Spaces

Basements usually serve two purposes. There is extra storage for holiday decorations and the like or as an extra living area or bedroom. It works out well for homeowners until water begins leeching in from the outside of the structure, making it unlivable. Unfortunately, this is common for many basements in New Hampshire.

Removing standing water from a relatively small area is simple, but it is only a temporary measure. SERVPRO understands that a permanent solution to a wet, Amherst basement requires more than just pumping out water and setting up a dehumidifier. If we do not block the source of water, more leaks and damage are going to happen. To accomplish this, we recommend waterproofing or encapsulating the cinder blocks which make up the foundation along with the basement walls and floors.

Our technicians start the waterproofing process by filling seams and cracks with hydraulic cement. This sealant is an excellent barrier against further leaks. We then apply masonry cement over the basement walls. This coating is waterproof and establishes an efficient seal against seepage and leaks through cracks too small for the naked eye.

We recommend waterproofing the outside of the foundation as well. We carefully expose the outside walls and apply a thick layer of liquid rubber or similar product. This sealant helps to provide a dry basement against extreme weather and flooding unless the foundation is somehow cracked or the house shifts off its original position.

Encapsulation is the preferred method for basements with a dirt floor or smaller areas like crawlspaces. Technicians install a water vapor barrier by reinforcing polyethylene sheets with a polyester mesh. This approach effectively seals off the walls and floor from moisture bleeding into the basement. Our team then secures the sheets and mesh into place using a polyurethane caulk or two-sided, foundation tape. If needed, they also install a frame that holds everything in place. For difficult environments with excess humidity, it is standard procedure to install a permanent dehumidifier. Encapsulation is an excellent, low-cost method to secure the basement for additional storage while also improving indoor air quality.

Preventing water intrusion does more than just add storage or an extra room. Proper waterproofing and encapsulation also increase the value. If you have water in your basement currently or want to prevent future intrusion, call SERVPRO of Merrimack today at (603) 262-9293. We are here to help.

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