Leaking Bulkhead
Water intrusion through the bulkhead has led to pooling within the basement space. If left unaddressed, this moisture can accelerate the deterioration of the wooden stair structure and create conditions conducive to mold growth. Additionally, during periods of heavy rainfall, the risk of significant basement flooding increases, potentially resulting in structural damage and costly repairs.
Cold Joint Water Seepage
The dark discoloration observed at the intersection of the basement wall and floor slab is indicative of water seepage through a cold joint. This type of joint, formed where two separate concrete pours meet, is inherently vulnerable to infiltration. Under hydrostatic pressure, groundwater accumulating along the exterior foundation wall can penetrate through this joint, allowing moisture to enter the basement space and potentially compromise its structural integrity over time.
Perimeter Drainage Waterproofing System
To address water intrusion concerns, the WaterGuard® drainage system was installed along the interior perimeter of the basement, including the bulkhead area. This system is strategically placed at the footing level after a portion of the concrete slab is removed, allowing for optimal water capture. Water entering the space is intercepted before it reaches the basement floor and is efficiently channeled to the sump pump for removal. Once installed, the system is sealed back into the slab with fresh concrete, ensuring a clean finish and long-term protection against moisture infiltration.
Surface Drainage Around Basement Utilities
To accommodate immovable basement utilities such as the furnace, our TrenchDrain® surface drainage system was installed in targeted areas. This system is designed to intercept surface water and is fully integrated with the WaterGuard® perimeter drainage system, creating a unified channel that directs all collected water to the sump pump. This seamless integration ensures efficient water management and helps prevent localized flooding around critical equipment.
Sump Pump and Dehumidifier
The TripleSafe® Sump Pump System provides maximum reliability in managing groundwater removal from the basement. It features a three-pump configuration: a primary pump for standard operation, a secondary pump for high-volume scenarios, and a battery-powered backup pump to ensure continued performance during power outages. This layered approach offers comprehensive protection against flooding under all conditions. Complementing this system is the SaniDry XP® Basement Air System, which actively regulates humidity and moisture levels. It automatically drains collected moisture directly into the sump system, creating a fully integrated and autonomous water management solution that helps prevent mold growth and maintains a dry, healthy basement environment.
