A Basement Finished With Organic Materials
Basements are often finished with organic materials like the wood you see along the base of the wall here. Unfortunately if these materials are to get wet or even moist they can get moldy, musty, and eventually rot. We work to divert water away from these areas and even offer basement finishing systems that will not be affected by moisture.
Carpet and Water Do Not Mix
Using carpet in a finished basement is usually not a good idea. If it becomes wet and is not properly dried in time it can create a long lasting musty smell. If you need to have carpet in your basement we have an option that will work even in damp conditions. You can ask your specialist about this or visit our other site basementfinishingduluthsuperior.com
Wood Stud Walls Rot as Well
Even wood stud walls should be avoided in a basement if possible. Putting wood into this moist environment will severely shorten the lifespan of the finished basement.
The Effects of Basement Flooding
Unfortunately, a little water in the basement can cause a lot of damage. If your basement is susceptible to water and moisture it is best to have a complete waterproofing system and even a proper dehumidifier to protect the basement you've made an investment in.
The Sump Pump
Part of an effective waterproofing system is an effective sump pump. The TripleSafe sump pump you see installed here has three pumps which can move large volumes of water quickly. The third pump on this sump is a battery operated back up which turns on in the event of power failure.
The Drain Tile
In order to remove water that accumulates under and around the home a drain tile needs to be installed. The water that enters this drain tile leads to the sump pump where it is pumped out of the home.
CleanSpace Wall Matting
When waterproofing the walls we use our patented CleanSpace matting to direct water down the wall and into the drain tile. The water never has to enter the basement environment.
We Cover the Whole Wall
We take the proper measures to make sure the entire wall is covered when we waterproof a basement.
Working Around Obstacles
For movable obstacles like large appliances we are often prepared to disconnect and move them, but sometimes we need to work around them. With our versatile solutions we can work with both situations.
Almost Complete!
The drain tile is complete and the walls have been covered.
Working Around Windows
We carefully sculpt the CleanSpace matting to work around windows and other openings in the home. This makes a total waterproof seal possible.
Drain Tile Trench
Here is the trench that needs to be dug out around the perimeter of the home so that the surrounding water can be effectively removed from the basement.
Drain Tile Placed
With the drain tile properly in place we are ready to begin filling back over our completed work.
A Nice Clean Look
These walls will most likely be covered when the basement is finished, but for now they provide a nice bright clean look for the basement.
Clean Seams
The seems in the wall are sealed with a strong adhesive tape that also blocks water from entering the basement.
Sealing the System
We cover the drainage system with concrete to create a seal and to bring the basement floor back to its original condition.
Now Complete
With the drain tile properly installed it will drain the water out of the home instead of allowing it to flow into the basement as it once had.
Sumpe Discharge
Two sump pump discharge lines allow the pumps to work simultaneously if and when they are needed.
A Completed System
The basement is now waterproofed and can be finished. With moisture in the air we still recommend using inorganic materials to finishing the basement.
A Consistent Look Throughout the Basement
The waterproofing system we have installed has a beautifully consistent look throughout the basement.
Un-Affected Electrical
We were able to install our system without disturbing the electrical outlets. The homeowner can now finish the basement without having to worry about this potential additional step.
