A while back we wrote a blog about Basement Water Control VS Basement Waterproofing. In older homes it is especially important to know the difference between these two option for your basement water issues. Just last week Lakewood issued a strong warning about using Interior Water Control systems, like many major competitors use. Water Control Systems should not be used without first insuring your basement structure will remain intact with this system. Structural issues have become a big concern in Lakewood. Lakewoods statement is below, followed by our blog on the difference between a basement water control system and basement waterproofing. To be clear, On-Call provides Basement Waterproofing Systems. If you want to know more about the difference in these two options, please call us. We are happy to talk with you 440-476-3602
Be it advised that some of our basement walls are in ill repair due to the age and material type that the foundations were built with. We have speed tile foundations, double wythe brick, sandstone, and rubble foundations in many locations. Many of these foundation types were originally set on undisturbed clay and do not have any footings, or full 4” thick basement floors that are required to install many of these systems. Water controlling specifications need to be submitted to the Building Department annually and with every project for review, as well as wall stabilization systems requiring steel beams to be placed vertically on the existing foundation wall, affixed to full footings, and tied to existing floor framing. Starting in 2023, the Building Department is requiring proof that footings and full 4” thick basement floors exist, along with engineered plans to install these systems. We will not issue any permits for stabilization systems for foundation walls that require the structural members be installed or permanently affixed to footings that (A) don’t exist or (B) are structurally inadequate. The burden will fall on the contractor and engineer/design professional (registered to practice in the state of Ohio) to prove to us that the system specified can be installed in every situation that is uncovered. Should you have any questions you may contact the Building Commissioner directly, (216)529-6295.
The State of Ohio now distinguishes between basement waterproofing and interior water control systems. Basement interior water control is a method for removing water once it has entered the basement. Interior water control is not basement waterproofing.
So how are they different? Water control systems involve drain tiles connected to a sump pump which drain water from your basement to keep you basement dry, thus the term “water control”. These systems work to remove water once it has entered your basement but they do not keep water out.
Basement waterproofing, as identified by Ohio’s code, is external waterproofing. It involves excavating the exterior to keep water from entering your basement. It involves external drainage and sealant application along with several other steps to keep water from entering your basement.
Basement waterproofing, as identified by Ohio’s code, is external waterproofing. It involves excavating the exterior to keep water from entering your basement. It involves external drainage and sealant application along with several other steps to keep water from entering your basement.
Do you want water to enter your basement and then be removed after it has seeped in or do you want an external water barrier to keep the water out? We offer waterproofing. If you have a basement moisture or water problem and want basement waterproofing, call us 440-476-3602. We are happy to demonstrate the difference between these processes
