Basement Waterproofing in Nashville II

11/25/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Steps to Restoring and Preventing Future Flood Damage

Many areas of Nashville are prone to flooding. Due to the high amount of groundwater, some homes wind up flooded even when nothing comes in through the doors or windows. Basements are especially vulnerable.

Basement waterproofing a Nashville home takes several steps. To stop flooding, SERVPRO first needs to remove any standing water, inspect the walls and floor for seeps and leaks, and then seal both the inside and outside of the basement.

Our inspection team uses pumps and extraction wands to draw out the water from the basement. Even with a large room, we can usually accomplish this in a single day. Since there may be cracks or seeps in the floor, we lift and remove any carpets covering it. If the air is exceptionally humid, condensation can be a problem, and we may have to place a dehumidifier to lower the air moisture content.

Next, we inspect. Cinder block is difficult to penetrate, but the mortar between the blocks can wear away when water continually pushes against it. Flood damage does not usually lead to seeps, but when there are surface cracks where it joins the walls, water can get inside.

Now, we seal the inside of the basement. SERVPRO technicians fill every crack and seep with hydraulic cement which stops further leaks. Then, they cover the walls and any affected portion of the floor with masonry cement. This second cement is waterproof, and the two together form a very effective seal against future water intrusion.

The basement is now secured, but the blocks behind the cement are still vulnerable. The only way to completely seal the basement walls is for our technicians to excavate around the foundation and expose the cinder blocks. We clean any debris and then coat every inch with liquid rubber. This sealant is designed to withstand floodwater and extreme weather. It does not leak unless one of the walls separates from the floor.

Protecting your home from flooding is not a simple task. SERVPRO of South Nashville has the expertise and tools needed to seal your basement from even some of the worst weather and its effects. If you need our help or want to prepare for the next flood, call us today at (615) 331-0200.

Visit https://www.nashville.gov/ for more information about the city of Nashville.