Basement Waterproofing St. Catherines

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Aquamaster is your trusted sources of Basement Waterproofing St. Catherines. In business since 2009, we’ve expanded our services to include anything from simple foundation crack repairs and basement leak repairs to complex projects like basement underprinning, sup pump installations and basement waterproofing.

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Signs that you Need Basement Waterpooring in St. Catherines?

Basement waterproofing is better done before you need it. From this perspective, if you have a property, you should get its basement waterproofed.

With that said, there is a number of signs that may signal that the basement in your home needs waterproofing, for example:

Wet Basement Walls or Floors – when water makes it to your basement, one of the signs to look for is wet basement floors or wet basement walls. If that’s the case with your property, it may be a good idea to talk to a basement waterproofing contractor.
Foundation Cracks – unfortunately, with time basement wall cracks and floor cracks tend to get worse. Over time, you may see water leaks appear. Later on these cracks may also turn into basement floods. Foundation crack repair is a must, so if you see a cracked foundation, call an expert!
Basement Leaks – basement leaks are important to catch early. As soon as you do, you will need a professional to come in for basement leak detection and basement leak repair services.
Increased Humidity – in some cases, you may not see cracks or leaks, but humid air in your basement will signal that you need waterproofing.
New Construction – basement waterproofing for new construction is a good idea, as it will help protect the foundation of your home from day one.

There’s more. If any of the above applies to you, or if you are looking for basement waterproofing service, get one of the basement waterproofing contractors at Aquamaster on the phone.

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Is Basement Waterproofing Worth It?

Benefits of Basement Waterproofing for Properties in St. Catherines

Smart investment. Basement waterproofing is broad category. It can include many services from exterior basement waterproofing to simple basement leak repairs. While services change depending on the specifics, generally basement waterproofing is a good investment to make. Here is why:

Extends the Life of the Foundation – the more the foundation of your home is in touch with groundwater, the sooner it will give you problems. Basement waterproofing will help protect your foundation from the groundwater, as a result, the lifespan of the foundation will increase.
Helps Prevent Basement Water Leaks – one of the primary benefits of basement waterproofing is that it helps prevent basement water leaks. That’s the main idea of getting basement waterproofing before you need it.
Helps Prevent Basement Floods – unfortunately, basement leaks can turn into floods. That’s why it’s important to get basement leak detection & basement leak repair services as soon as you identify a crack or a leak in your basement.
Protects Your Investment – your property is an investment. Waterproofing is a way to make your basement more protected from potential water damage.
Property Value – a property with a waterproof basement is a safer investment for potential buyers. As a result, the value of your property is likely to increase when you waterproof your basement.

The list goes on. Get one of our basement waterproofing contractors on the phone today to discuss what waterproofing services can help you achieve your objectives!

Welland Basement Waterproofing Contractors for exterior waterproofing new construction

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What Basement Waterproofing Approach is Right for You?

Interior vs Exterior Basement Waterproofing - Considerations

Basement waterproofing is the process of preventing water from entering the basement or crawl space of a building. The two main types of basement waterproofing are interior and exterior waterproofing. Here is a couple of considerations when comparing exterior and interior waterproofing.

Interior Basement Waterproofing

Interior basement waterproofing is the process of installing a drainage system inside the basement to collect and redirect water that enters the space. This method involves digging a trench around the interior perimeter of the basement, installing a drainage pipe, and covering it with gravel and a waterproof membrane. The water is then collected by the drainage system and pumped out of the basement using a sump pump.

Pros of Interior Basement Waterproofing:

Cost-effective - interior basement waterproofing is generally less expensive than exterior waterproofing because it does not require excavation.
Minimal Disruption - interior waterproofing does not require any excavation work outside the home, which means that it is less disruptive to the property and can be completed quickly.

Cons of Interior Basement Waterproofing:

Water still Makes it to the Basement - interior basement waterproofing is rather a water management solution, than waterproofing.
Limited Protection - interior waterproofing only protects the interior of the basement from water damage, leaving the exterior of the foundation vulnerable to damage.
Requires Maintenance - for example, the sump pump will need to be repaired, maintained and cleaned.

Exterior Basement Waterproofing

Exterior basement waterproofing involves excavating the foundation of the building to expose the walls, repairing cracks, and installing a waterproof membrane and drainage system on the exterior of the foundation walls. This method is a good choice, but requires excavation work and can be more expensive than interior waterproofing.

Pros of Exterior Basement Waterproofing:

Long-lasting - exterior waterproofing provides long-lasting protection to the home, as it addresses the root of the problem and prevents water from entering the foundation walls.
Protects the Foundation - exterior waterproofing protects the foundation walls from water damage, which can prevent future issues like structural damage and mold growth.

Cons of Exterior Basement Waterproofing:

More Expensive - exterior waterproofing is generally more expensive than interior waterproofing because it requires more work.
Disruptive - exterior waterproofing requires excavation work, which can damage landscaping, driveways, and sidewalks.

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Services Under Basement Waterproofing St. Catherines

Basement Waterproofing can Include Some of the Following Services

Basement waterproofing is a broad category that can include a number of services. The services will vary depending on the specifics of your property, the extent of the water damage, your budget, and your objectives. Here is a couple of services that are commonly included under basement waterproofing:

Internal Basement Waterproofing

Interior waterproofing is rather a water management solution, as opposed to waterproofing. It involves installing a waterproof membrane inside the basement. The membrane directs the water that made it through to the basement towards a drainage system inside the basement or crawl space. The water is then collected by the drainage system and pumped out of the basement using a sump pump. Interior waterproofing only addresses water that has already entered the basement, it does not prevent water from entering the space in the first place.

Foundation Crack Repair - Basement Walls & Floors

Foundation crack repair is the process of repairing cracks that have developed in the foundation of a building. Foundation cracks can occur due to a variety of factors, including soil settling, freezing and thawing, moisture, and structural movement. If left untreated, foundation cracks can lead to water damage, structural damage, and even compromise the stability of the building.

There are several methods for repairing foundation cracks, depending on the size and location of the crack. One common method is to inject an epoxy or polyurethane foam into the crack to seal it and prevent water from entering the space. Another method is to use carbon fiber straps or steel reinforcement bars to stabilize the foundation and prevent further cracking. In some cases, excavation may be necessary to repair the foundation from the outside.

Basement Plumbing Rough Ins

Basement plumbing rough-ins are the initial plumbing installations that are done during the construction or renovation of a basement. These rough-ins are typically installed before the walls and flooring are finished, making it easier to access the pipes and fixtures.

Basement plumbing rough-ins typically include installing the pipes and drains for the basement's bathroom, laundry room, and any other plumbing fixtures.

Basement Leak Detection & Basement Leak Repair

Basement leak detection and repair is the process of identifying and fixing any leaks or water infiltration issues in a basement. Basements are prone to water damage and leaks due to their location below ground level, and these issues can cause serious damage to the structure of the building and the contents of the basement. If your see water on your basement walls or floors but are not sure where it's coming from, basement leak detection may help identify the source of the water leak. While basement leak repair service will help fix it.

External Basement Waterproofing

Exterior basement waterproofing is a method of preventing water from entering the basement or crawl space of a building by installing a waterproof membrane and drainage system on the exterior of the foundation walls. This process involves excavating the soil around the foundation walls, repairing foundation cracks and applying a waterproof coating or membrane to the walls, installing drainage tiles or pipes, and covering them with gravel or other materials to ensure proper drainage away from the foundation. Exterior waterproofing provides long-lasting protection to the home by preventing water from entering the foundation walls and causing structural damage or mold growth. However, it can be more expensive and disruptive than interior waterproofing because it requires excavation work.

Crawlspace Encapsulation

Crawlspace encapsulation is the process of sealing the crawl space of a building with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture and other environmental elements from entering. The encapsulation process involves sealing the walls and floors of the crawl space with a heavy-duty plastic sheet or other barrier material, along with sealing any openings, such as vents or pipes.

Foundation Repair St. Catherines

Foundation repair refers to the process of repairing and stabilizing the foundation of a building that has been damaged or compromised. Foundation damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including soil movement, water damage, and poor construction practices.

Some common signs of foundation damage include cracks in the walls or floors, sloping or uneven floors, and doors or windows that are difficult to open or close.

The foundation repair process typically involves an inspection by a professional contractor to determine the cause and extent of the damage. Depending on the severity of the damage, the repair may involve simple cosmetic fixes, such as patching cracks, or more extensive structural repairs, such as underpinning or the installation of support beams.

Sump Pump Installation & Repair Services

A sump pump installation is a process of installing a pump in a basement or crawlspace to remove any water that accumulates in the sump basin. A sump pump is typically installed in homes that are prone to flooding or have issues with excess groundwater.

The installation process involves digging a hole in the basement or crawlspace floor and placing a sump basin or pit in the hole. The sump basin collects any water that enters the basement or crawlspace and directs it to the sump pump. The sump pump then pumps the water out of the basement or crawlspace and away from the foundation of the home. We recommend getting regular sump pump maintenance and repairing the sump pump as soon as it breaks to help prevent basement floods.

Basement Underpinning Services

Basement underpinning is a process of strengthening the foundation of a building by extending its depth or width. Basement underpinning can also be used to increase the height of a basement or to create additional living space in a basement by lowering the basement floor. This process can be complex and expensive, requiring the expertise of a professional foundation contractor. Watch our video on the basement underpinning process at Aquamaster.

Weeping Tile Installation & Weeping Tile Cleanout

Weeping tile installation is a process of installing a drainage system around the foundation of a building to collect and redirect water away from the foundation. Weeping tiles, also known as drainage tiles or French drains, are perforated pipes that are installed around the perimeter of the foundation, usually at the level of the basement floor.

During the installation process, a trench is dug around the foundation, and the weeping tile is placed in the trench with the perforated side facing down. The weeping tile is then covered with gravel or other aggregate material to provide a stable base for the soil that will be backfilled into the trench.

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Wet Basement & Other Services by Aquamaster

Basement Waterproofing

Basement Floor Lowering

Plumbing Services

Water Line Replacement

Excavation

Drain Cleaning

Drain Camera Inspection

Trenchless Pipe Replacement

KITEC Pipe Replacement

Why is Basement Waterproofing Important?

Your property may be protected from a number of unfortunate situations by having foundation and basement waterproofing done. Other then catching fire and burning down, flooding in a basement is one of the worst accidents that can happen in a home. When foundations begin to fracture, water can enter the basement and damage the bases of the flooring and walls. In the worst-case scenario, it may even cause a home to collapse. Basement waterproofing applies not just to basements but also the home’s foundations. Basement waterproofing is an essential fix if you have water, mildew, or rotting issues in your basement. Basement waterproofing can both solve any underlying issues in the space and be a preventative countermeasure against potential water damage. 1. Protects Structural Integrity of your Home - another advantage of waterproofing your basement is that it strengthens the structure of your home. Take note: your basement acts as the foundation for your home. It must be robust enough to complete this task. Waterproofing may ensure that your home lasts a prolonged lifespan. This is especially true if your home frequently experiences severe weather or adverse temperatures. 2. Increases the Value of Your Home - If you intend to sell your house in the near future, consider basement waterproofing. A home free of dampness and leaks is a crucial selling element for home buyers, making it more desirable. If you have not improved your basement in decades, buyers may consider it a significant inconvenience. This might give visitors a negative image of your home, especially if they smell the mustiness of old water. Distinct odors and signs of excess water can drive away potential buyers. Basements with waterproofing are also simpler to clean. This is another selling factor that can be desirable to future residents. Your home is more valuable if it is effectively protected and maintained. This adds more value to your home while you still live there and in the case that you do end up selling your home, a return on investment. In most circumstances, you may deduct the expenditures of the waterproofing job. 3. Prevents Mold & Mildew - Mold can be a serious problem if it develops in your home. Mold will gradually destroy the area where it colonizes and has the potential to create health problems for your home’s inhabitants. People who suffer from Bronchitis are especially vulnerable to mold and poor air quality. Mold grows from small spores that are invisible to the human eye and can be found in both outdoor and indoor air. Mold can start growing inside if it is on a damp surface. It simply requires moisture, water, and dust to thrive. Since dust is everywhere, if it settles on a damp surface, it might begin to grow indoors. That should give you an idea of the dangers of a damp or wet basement. However, basement waterproofing can prevent mold buildup from ever happening. Although mold typically stays unnoticed until it has developed, seeking the assistance of a qualified professional is a proactive decision. Certified specialists are trained to deal with mold in the home and are up to date on the latest products, techniques, and laws. Now, prevention is the greatest choice when it comes to keeping mold out of your home. So, if you discover a moisture or water problem, have it rectified or checked as soon as possible. With the benefits of basement waterproofing, there are two main types to consider, exterior basement waterproofing and interior basement waterproofing. Each with its own advantages and applications.
What are the Causes of a Leaky Basement?

There is a number of things that commonly cause basement to leak, here is a couple of the most common ones. Basement Window Wells - Water penetration through your window sill can be caused by water buildup around near-grade basement windows. To remedy this, water entering your window area should be drained by adding or replacing defective window wells, as well as installing vertical weeping tile and a 3/4 gravel bedding. This will keep your foundation from leaking and your basement from flooding. Home Foundations made of Block or Bricks - Air gaps and mortar joints in block and brick walls may allow water to penetrate the crevices of your walls. Water infiltration inside block and brick foundations may be prevented and repaired using a mix of exterior and interior waterproofing methods. Water collecting between brick walls can be drained by drilling into the foundation’s interior to remove the water buildup. Basement Leaks Caused by Joints - joint leaks occur at the intersections of your wall and footing, your basement floor and foundation, and joints where additional extensions have been installed. To repair and fill these various sorts of joints, hydraulic cement is used. The altered cement is critical to preventing more damage and water leaks. Top of Foundation Leaks - If the sill is not sealed or if the original seal has deteriorated, the area where the foundation meets the brick might become a source of water leakage. Maintaining the sill with a waterproof sealant is critical for resolving this problem and avoiding water infiltration into the sill. Water may still pass through this place even if there is no hydrostatic pressure.
What is Internal Basement Waterproofing?

Internal basement waterproofing is another method of stopping water damage and flooding in your basement. While external repairs provide the best solution, an internal project can be performed when foundation digging is not optimal. The internal waterproofing method may be the best option depending on a specific criteria: The area surrounding the exterior cannot be accessed because the space is confined or the area cannot be reached. The water problem is not a foundation leak but a hydrostatic pressure problem, which means the groundwater under the concrete slab raises up and down and causes the water to penetrate through the basement slab or where the wall meets the floor. This groundwater can also mean there could be an underground creek where the house was built. The internal system is an economical solution for unfinished living areas. Interior Wall & Floor Sealer - Internal waterproofing allows you to install drainage on the inside of your home, rerouting water intake to a correct point of release. The major advantage of implementing an internal waterproofing system is that it may collect water passing through the wall and beneath the footing. Basement walls that have been pierced will be drained away by our drainage membrane, creating a barrier between your wall and your living space. Water that travels beneath the footing might cause wet spots and leaks on your basement floor, which will be covered by the drainage board and drained through new weeping tiles. Sump Pumps - The fundamental component of every waterproofing system is a place where the water in the system may be discharged. When current drainage is clogged or there are no other drainage alternatives, your expert may recommend a sump pump installation. In your basement, a pit is dug to serve as the lowest point of your waterproofing system. Inside the pit, a high-quality plastic liner is put, allowing water to flow in by gravity drainage. The trigger of a sump pump, which ejects water from the sump pit to the exterior of the home, detects water buildup. We only utilize high-quality pumps and plumbing materials, and we also provide battery backup pumps that will keep working even if your power goes out. Before we perform any work, we provide you with the same inspection service. This is important to ensure that we cover every problem that is leading to a wet basement issue. After we have identified all of the trouble areas, we will provide you with the best internal waterproofing solution for your unique needs. Our internal waterproofing solutions may include repairing all cracks or breaks in your foundation walls, adding a waterproof membrane to the interior and replacing any defective weeping tiles. A French drain installation can also be part of your solution. This image gives you an overview of some of the problems that cause a wet basement: No matter how well your home was built, the basement can still develop leaks. Homes are constructed to meet industry and safety standards. However, over time, homes settle and the foundation walls and floor may crack. Other water problems may come from the water table under your home or changes in the city sewer system. A small leak now can turn into a major problem as time passes. Leaks also create mold, mildew and water damage. This can end up requiring very costly repairs to your home. Professional basement waterproofing requires knowledge and skills, along with the right resources and tools. A fully effective treatment includes addressing drainage and adding sealers. Once your basement is professionally waterproofed, it will remain dry. We guarantee this. Call us, or email us today, so we can provide you with an inspection and a cost effective solution to your leaky basement problem. Our licensed experts are ready to fix any type of foundation problem you are experiencing.
What Causes Basement Interior to Leak?

Damp or Wet Basement Flooring - the source of water entering the basement through the concrete floor or where the basement walls meet the floor is most likely subterranean groundwater. Rising groundwater and saturation produce hydrostatic pressure during rainy weather, which pushes against the foundation and drives water through cracks and gaps in the concrete. This stress can cause cracks in the basement floor and walls. Visible White Substances on Walls - limestone, clay, mortar, and aggregate make up concrete and the white border or patch you observe is calcium evaporating from the block. It is a sign of water or too much moisture and should be treated carefully. It is referred to as efflorescence. Since this will only show on concrete, you will only be able to see it if your basement is not finished. Other indicators will develop if your basement is experiencing excessive leaking, water damage will nearly always show some kind of warning indication. Painted Walls Appear Damaged - paint can peel away from the surface it was painted on as it ages, similarly to peeling paint in older homes. It does not, however, flake off just because it is aged. Paint may peel for a variety of reasons, including the paint being the incorrect type for the material it was painted on, the surface not being properly prepared, or humidity or moisture in the walls you painted on. Wet surfaces will not hold paint. Water vapor will discolor it, causing it to peel off the wall or poke holes in it. This can be a direct indication that the walls of your basement are holding too much moisture or are very damp. Excess Rusting - metal rusts when there is an abundance of moisture in the atmosphere. Rust can form on fuse boxes, water heaters, jack posts, and appliances due to excessive moisture and humidity. When rust occurs, remove it completely and repaint it as soon as possible, and then analyze the source of the moisture. The rust will return if not addressed immediately.
How Exterior Basement Waterproofing Works?

External waterproofing is the ideal solution to stem water damage, or to prevent excess water from getting past the foundation into the basement. However, external waterproofing does cause disruption to the outside of the home. The soil and underlying gravel have to be removed in order to get a close look at defects on the outside of the foundation. Power washing and then power drying the foundation walls is the best way to detect hairline cracks or fissures. Once the problem areas are uncovered, then each problem is handled separately. A flexible, cement sealant is applied to all the exposed areas of the foundation, which adds extra support and protection to the concrete foundation by strengthening the existing walls. Then a heavy polyurethane drainage mat is attached to the exposed walls. This extra protection on the outside ensures the foundation will ward off any excess buildup of groundwater. Outside drainage is another part of the waterproofing solution. Many homes still have the old-fashioned clay weeping tiles, which degrade and clog over time. Outdated drainage pipes are replaced with modern weeping tiles, which are made of plastic and perforated so they don’t clog as easily. Done correctly, external waterproofing will keep the foundation and basement watertight for decades. We are going to demonstrate the best practices of basement waterproofing that have been tested, proven and working for many years for all our clients. We are not talking about magic waterproof paints, channel drain tiles that sit on top of the footing, molding drainage system and e.c. None of them completely, and more important properly solve the wet basement issue. Most of the waterproofing systems have been designed for easy installation, and not for how well they will perform. That little box of tricks doesn’t take you very far. In fact, it sometimes takes you nowhere. The real best practice isn’t a particular product at all. It is a well-defined series of steps that conduct to effectively performing system. The Aquamaster’s approach is significantly different from quick fixes. It’s not based on guesswork, and it doesn’t have the excitement and appeal of magic products. Our solid knowledge, craft, skill, and expertise prove that it always works. Exterior waterproofing is a method of repairing a leaky basement from the outside of your home by exposing the foundation and applying the necessary waterproofing material to create a foundation waterproofing system that redirects and disperses water away from your foundation walls. This is one of the most effective waterproofing options for basement leaks and the most typical method of basement foundation repair. Aquamaster has been providing professional waterproofing to Toronto homes for many years. An external waterproofing solution is the best choice to provide the highest level of protection against basement flooding and water damage. Our experts understand the processes fully and we offer complete transparency in all the work we perform. We will explain every step of the process to you so that you will know what to expect from our work. Poor foundation drainage, high levels of groundwater, major storms and foundation cracks can all contribute to a wet basement and water damage. We will consult with you and inspect your home, drainage systems and property. We look for any problem areas and will discuss the recommended solutions to provide you with permanent protection from leaks and moisture. Every home is different and Aquamaster provides customized solutions for every job we complete. The work may involve repairing cracks with epoxy or replacing the waterproofing membrane along your foundations. In the majority of cases, external waterproofing involves digging down to the footers of your foundation to locate all the problem areas and ensure that your basement is fully protected. On some occasions, we may not have to completely dig out the foundation. You may simply need to have your weeping tiles replaced or a French drain installed. If your existing drains are clogged, the groundwater will back up and place additional pressure on the foundation walls, forcing water into any cracks. A complete inspection of your home’s drainage system and foundation is the only way to truly know what work needs to be done. The experts at Aquamaster will provide you with a customized plan to repair your basement that includes a full guarantee. We understand waterproofing in Toronto and the Greater Toronto area and our staff are experienced professionals.

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Basement Waterproofing Reviews

What Our Clients Say?

Stephanie G.

Residential Client

I used Aquamaster for two separate home waterproofing projects and I was extremely satasified with their work and price. Their team are highly skilled, thorough and were able to complete the 10.5 hour job in one day. They were even kind enough to seal my window frame after I noticed a minor leak. I would highly recommend Aquamaster for all your waterproofing and plumbing needs.

The Aquamaster team is absolutely fantastic! They went above and beyond to diagnose and correct the problem that I had with my basement plumbing caused by old pipes and persistent tree roots. I used them once in 2012 and in 2020. I cannot say enough good things about this team - Highly recommend.

Felicia F.

Residential Client

Chris D.

Residential Client

Aqua Master quoted me a very fair price for waterproofing and finshed the job ahead of schedule. We haven't had any water issues in our post-war hm since then. Highly recommend this business for its professionalism and quality of work. Hire with confidence!

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