Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - exterior foundation sealer?
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pattis
11-05-05, 12:27 PM
We are purchasing a 1970's split level. The ground around the home slopes towards the house on one side. It was recommended we excavate and put in some type of sealant or membrane to help make foundation more water resistant (I know it cannot "waterproof".)
When there are very heavy rains water seeps in. Due to several very large trees on the other side of the driveway it would be nearly impossible to regrade sufficiently to resolve the issue.
Contractor took a look and said due to very sandy soil exterior drain tile would not be very effective and he suggested something more along the lines of better exterior sealing of the foundation as well as putting in a smaller window so we can regrade a bit more away from the house. The lower level window is currently at grade with the driveway.
Any suggestions on products or resources for such exterior water sealant?
How expensive would it be to do about 25 feet of wall?
thanxs in advance for any assistance
When there are very heavy rains water seeps in. Due to several very large trees on the other side of the driveway it would be nearly impossible to regrade sufficiently to resolve the issue.
Contractor took a look and said due to very sandy soil exterior drain tile would not be very effective and he suggested something more along the lines of better exterior sealing of the foundation as well as putting in a smaller window so we can regrade a bit more away from the house. The lower level window is currently at grade with the driveway.
Any suggestions on products or resources for such exterior water sealant?
How expensive would it be to do about 25 feet of wall?
thanxs in advance for any assistance
Concretemasonry
11-05-05, 12:44 PM
Exterior sealers are about as effective as the opinion you got from a "contractor". Saying you are a contractor does not mean much. Find out how many jobs he has attempted to repair and how many really worked.
You are collecting water around your foundation - where do you expect it to go. A paint on film is worthless and the water will just come in where you did not paint.
A perforated drain tile will do an excellent job of eliminating the source of your leaks. The drain tile can be either inside ot outside of the foundation wall. Each has advantages.
If most of your water is runoff from the driveway, you could install intercepting perimeter drainage along the driveway edge and out toward the street or low areas.
Coatings are a temporary "band-aid" solution.
Dick
You are collecting water around your foundation - where do you expect it to go. A paint on film is worthless and the water will just come in where you did not paint.
A perforated drain tile will do an excellent job of eliminating the source of your leaks. The drain tile can be either inside ot outside of the foundation wall. Each has advantages.
If most of your water is runoff from the driveway, you could install intercepting perimeter drainage along the driveway edge and out toward the street or low areas.
Coatings are a temporary "band-aid" solution.
Dick