Birmingham Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing Basements & Crawl Spaces in Birmingham, AL

Waterproofing by Licensed Contractors In Birmingham, Alabama

Waterproofing Basements & Crawl Spaces

Birmingham homeowners are getting creative with their living spaces in the face of rising housing demand, turning to below-ground habitable areas for additional space. When waterproofing basements, guaranteeing successful projects is a must - that's why more and more property owners are relying on H2O's reliable design and installation solutions for peace of mind.

At H2O, we employ a five-step assessment process to ensure every below ground space is effectively remediated with an guaranteed waterproofing system. After carefully analyzing the basement's structure and construction, we'll determine what level of protection is necessary based on its end use.

 What type of Basement Structure is it? (Basement, Crawl Space)

How is the Basement constructed? (Concrete, Brick)

What is the required end use of the area? What Grade of protection is required? 

What Type of Basement Waterproofing System is suitable?

Is Condensation Management an issue?

Types of Birmingham Basement Structures

Basement

A basement is an area of a building that is located completely below the ground floor.

Basement Structure

Sub Basement

A sub-basement is another level of basement below the first level. 

Sub Basement Structure

Crawl Space

A crawl space is an area between the ground and the first floor of a structure.

Crawl Space Structure

Daylight

Basement

A daylight basement is a type of basement that has a window, door, or other section specifically designed above the external ground level.

Daylight Basement Structure

Walk Out Basement

A walk-out basement is a type of basement that has an entrance or access at ground level. This allows the homeowner to have direct access to their basement

Walk Out Basement Structure

6 COMMON SIGNS OF MOISTURE IN BASEMENTS

Moisture can be a disheartening surprise to homeowners, no matter the source. It doesn't take an expert eye to spot the obvious water pooling on the ground, however, identifying and diagnosing moisture penetration is essential for proper repair. There are specific signs associated with different sources of moisture that need to be assessed in order to discover the cause and begin necessary remediation  for proper basement waterproofing.

Water Leaks

Water across the floor. Leaks often start as unnoticed puddles at wall/floor junctions or other vulnerable points such as cracks and unsealed penetrations in walls or floors.

Pooling Water in Basement

Damp Patches

Damp Patches on wall, patches that are damp, wet or cold to touch. This is typically the result of an external waterproofing failure, but can also be the result of condensation from moisture penetration

Damp Walls from Moisture

Efflorescence

This presents as a white mineral deposit on the surface, and is a result of water passing through a masonry substrate and depositing mineral salts on the surface as the source water evaporates away.

Efflorescence moisture in basement

Paint Bubbling

Paint Bubbling: Moisture trapped in the wall/floor/ceiling is the most common reason for bubbling paint.

Paint Bubbling from moisture in basement

Mold

High moisture levels in the atmosphere can create an optimal environment for mold growth. Poor ventilation only aids this process, so it's important to keep air circulating correctly or risk having occupants suffer from serious health issues associated with mold exposure.

Mold on basement wall from moisture

Rotting Architraves and Timbers

Unchecked moisture levels can wreak havoc on any building, leading to the growth of mold and mildew as well as rotting architraves, skirts and timbers. Left untreated for long enough it will even affect a structure's integrity - not only that but termites find high humidity quite irresistible!

Rotting Architraves

SOURCES OF MOISTURE IN BASEMENTS

Basements and other below ground structures can quickly become uninhabitable when exposed to moisture - caused by different sources. Below are the top four we see most often in the Birmingham area.

Ground Water: Hydrostatic pressure is caused by the buildup of water in the soil around your foundation. This can occur because of a heavy rainfall. It can also be caused by poor drainage around the foundation or if underground pipes or sewers have broken and are leaking water into the soil. This pressure can cause damage to foundations over time, so it is important to address it with basement waterproofing in order to protect your home from potential water damage.


Surface Water: Surface water that has not penetrated into the ground. Subsurface water can often be problematic for basement structures. Having effective surface drainage is essential to lowering the hydraulic pressure against basement structures.


Moisture Vapor: transmission is the transfer of water from one environment to another in its gaseous form. A waterproofing membrane blocks liquid droplets, but can still allow varying rates of moisture vapor through - a key distinction when it comes to creating effective barriers against water damage. To effectively waterproof something, it’s essential to choose materials with low MVT ratings – as opposed to simply using paint.


Condensation: Condensation is the result of water transitioning from a gaseous to liquid state due to changes in atmospheric humidity or temperature. Unvented dryers, washing machines, cooking appliances and household activities such as cleaning and perspiring can significantly increase moisture levels below ground if ventilation is absent or limited - furthering potential mold growth on surfaces near dew points.

H2O Water Proofing

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H2O Guaranteed Basement Waterproofing System Installation Process

Install a protective perimeter drain.

Drain installation is the first step to ensure water around a home's perimeter is directed away from its basement. We accomplish this with careful excavation and installing pipe within the trench for directing collected moisture to the outside of the basement. A layer of stone then rests on top, providing an effective solution against unwanted seepage into your basement area!

Installation of a vapor barrier

Proper installation of a vapor barrier lining for basement waterproofing is essential for the overall effectiveness of the system. The first step is to measure and cut the vapor barrier material to fit the walls of the basement. Then, using either staples or nails, secure the membrane around all edges of the foundation walls. After this, use a caulk gun to seal any joints where two pieces are connected and around any penetrations. Finally, check all seams with a sealing tape to ensure there are no air gaps in which water can seep through.

INSTALLATION OF A VAPOR BARRIER

Sump Pump Installation



The sump pump is a vital component of any drainage system, automatically removing excess water to keep your home safe-and dry. It efficiently collects and discharges the liquid when levels reach their threshold, offering peace of mind against saturated areas or flooding.


Cover the New Drainage System

Concrete is used to complete the drain system upgrade, sealing the system to keep your basement dry. It offers a seamless approach that leaves your basement looking finished and polished. You may also choose to carpet, tile or install wood floors.


H2O Waterproofing System carries a Fully Transferable Lifetime Warranty.


If you have any of the following, Contact the Basement Waterproofing Contractors at H2O Waterproofing Today 205-956-2426:

COVER THE NEW DRAINAGE SYSTEM WITH FRESH CONCRETE
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HERE'S WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT!


We offer a specialized “Peace of Mind” Maintenance Program designed for Preventative care and maintenance on all products installed by H2O Waterproofing, LLC.

H2O technicians are not salesmen. They are highly trained professionals, with a minimum of 10 years of waterproofing experience.

Since 2003, H2O Waterproofing has been Alabama's most trusted waterproofing and foundation repair contractor.

We pride ourselves with providing our customers with the best customer experience, one waterproofing job at a time.

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Our TESTIMONIALS

Read What Our Clients Say About Us

We are very fortunate to have formed excellent relationships / partnerships with many of our clients.

Here’s what they’re saying about us:

Chris Barlett's Image
Excellent job from start to finish. The work was completed in less than 24 hours from the initial consultation. The quote fit in my budget and their workmanship exceeded my expectations. 5 Stars

C. Barlett, Birmingham Recycling

J. Yonfa's Image
Eric and his team did a great job installing an incredible waterproofing system in an investment property I bought. The house was originally built in 1978 and had cinder blocks where moisture had been slowly accumulating for years. They came and installed their waterproofing system and a pump to pump out any ensuing water from rains and the system works amazingly. No more moisture and no more musty odors. They were very knowledgeable and easy to work with. Their estimate was one of the best as well.

J. Yonfa

R. Williams's Image
I contacted H2O Waterproofing and spoke with the owner Eric Hamilton. He came out surveyed the problem and gave me an estimate that was better than any of his competitors. He gave me a date as to when they would start and complete the waterproofing of my basement. It took two (2) days to complete it and they did an outstanding job. I would highly recommend his company for waterproofing.

R. Williams

R. Simms Image
Great work! Eric Hamilton & his men were responsive to my concerns & always available to discuss the project.

R. Simms

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