My name is Cole. Something I always recommend is to check the date on stored foods. Also, I like injection waterproofing. Oh, and elevators are cool.
No matter the business that you own, it’s going to be vital that you keep the water out. Unfortunately for some, there are endless ways that the water seems to get in. Typically, it’s just not something that you can fix on your own either.
In cases like these, it’s time to call in the waterproofing experts. At Spec 7 Group, we specialize in below grade waterproofing and water mitigation.
Today we’ll be talking about how you can ensure that the water stays out by using below grade waterproofing. Let’s dive in!
What is Below Grade?
Below grade refers to the portions of the foundation of your building that are underground when the project is completed. In below grade waterproofing, the use of membranes and waterproofing systems are used on foundation walls to create a building envelope or barrier between the structure and the outside elements.
There are several different methods that can be used to build a barrier between the outside and the foundation of the building. The method will most often be recommended based on where your building is located on the water table.
Types of Below Grade Waterproofing
The different products used for waterproofing below grade include bentonite, target injection, crack injection, and elevator pit injection. Each of these solutions and systems are specific to the problem that you’re experiencing. A professional waterproofing company will be able to offer you water leak detection and propose a waterproofing system based on what they find in their inspection.
Bentonite Waterproofing
Bentonite composite sheet membranes are rubber membranes that are applied to the concrete around the foundation of the building for waterproofing. Bentonite waterproofing systems are an excellent product to use if you’re looking for long-lasting waterproofing for your structure. These products can be applied when the structure is being built or if there is a need for a waterproofing treatment after the building has been standing for a while. Bentonite waterproofing membranes are also extremely useful when mitigating hydrostatic pressure.
Elevator Pit Injection
Elevator pits are always below ground level and often have waterproofing troubles. Over time, the elevator pits can develop cracks or leaks. When this happens, it’s crucial to get them fixed in order to keep your elevator operational. The process of elevator pit injection is simple. We start by cleaning and drying out the space so that we can pinpoint where the leak is coming from. Then we apply various methods of injection and repair any cracks and cold joints as necessary. Finally, the pit is allowed to dry, and in turn, you’re left with a leak-free elevator pit.
Target + Crack Injection
Target and crack injection are similar in the material that they use. The only difference is the goal that they are trying to accomplish. Target injecting tends to be more generic, but crack injection specifically refers to filling cracks in the concrete foundation of the building. As the ground around the building and under the building settles, there are bound to be small cracks in the foundation. Eventually, these cracks can become leaks in the foundation of the building.
Waterproof Membranes
The best way to mitigate water intrusion and damage is through the use of a waterproofing membrane. This plastic or rubber barrier provides almost absolute protection for the foundation of a building from the time that it is built for 15+ years. The technology behind membrane waterproofing has continued to get better over the years allowing for these products to last longer and longer.
If you do decide to use a membrane for your construction projects or home renovation projects, it’s critical that you find a professional company to install them. While these waterproofing systems are the best thing for waterproofing, their effectiveness can be limited by the team that installs them. Be sure to do your due research when looking for a waterproofing system and company to install them.
If you’re in the upper midwest and have a need for a professional waterproofing and water mitigation company, reach out to Spec 7 Group. We’d be happy to inspect your property and provide a recommendation for the best way to fix it. Below grade waterproofing is not something to play around with, and a waterproofing membrane needs to be correctly installed if it’s going to be effective.
Reach out to us today for a complete list of the waterproofing systems that we can provide to help you ensure that water stays out of your building.
