Building regulations of waterproofing company do not have any particular restrictions on the need for thermal insulation of the foundation. For this reason, many investors and contractors refuse the insulation layer unless absolutely necessary. Meanwhile, practice shows that the foundation should be insulated regardless of the current rules and regulations.
In the case of buildings with basements, foundation insulation is used synonymously with basement insulation, increasing the size of rooms below ground level. This is why it’s worth making sure it’s done right from the start.
Before carrying out any further work on the installation of waterproofing or insulation of the walls of the foundation, it is necessary to withstand the foundation. Seasoning is a drying process in which excess moisture is released into the material. This process can take up to several weeks, so take your time installing the layers of insulation.
After curing the walls of the foundation, their surface should be cleaned. Only the cleaned surface is covered with plaster, on which a layer of moisture-proof insulation is placed (i.e. a waterproofing membrane or bituminous roofing material, or special asphalt concrete paint). We install the insulation on moisture-resistant insulation. Thermal insulation material is most often a plate that we glue to the base. In this case, special attention should be paid to ensure that the edges of the panels are ideally joined to each other. The tears will make the heat go out.
We must always remember that in buildings with a basement, the foundation walls play the role of basement walls. Thanks to their protection from moisture and cold, we can provide optimal conditions in the premises not only for storing various things and equipment, but also for the life of people. Thus, high-quality basement insulation is the implementation of all adaptation projects that allow the use of basements or attics not only for economic purposes. Recently, home gyms, children’s playrooms and much more are very fashionable. If the air level in the basement remains at an optimal level (for example, from 40 to 60%), then the heat does not escape through the walls on the ground, in rooms, rooms in the basement, there will not only be a pleasant atmosphere. life, and their operation will not entail additional costs.
Basement exterior drainage system
Waterproofing is not always sufficient to keep the basement from getting wet. That’s what drainage is for. See how to perform external and internal drainage.
Drainage is needed when the house is located on an area with a high groundwater table, especially when the soil has low permeability. Where do we get this information in the field of hydrology? The condition of the soil and water will be determined by a geological engineer who will inspect the site before we start construction, or better – before buying a project. Let’s make sure that in his opinion it gives the maximum, and not the current level of groundwater. It changes throughout the year. Drainage will also be required if the house is to be built on a slope. If it weren’t for the drainage, the water that flows from above would stop at the basement walls and wet them.
It may be worth deciding on drainage even when you don’t need it today. For who can predict whether the water table will rise in a few years? Such cases happen very often.
The drainage unit is placed around the house. It consists of perforated pipes laid in filtering and settling wells, including a collecting well, from where water is discharged outside the territory. Drainage pipes should be laid with a slight slope. Backfilling with gravel or crushed stone promotes water seepage from the ground into the pipes. Sometimes only light French drain can be done from a gravel bed under or around the house.
Basement exterior insulation
External insulation is designed to protect the waterproofing from damage when backfilling the foundation, as well as from rodents and plant roots. Basements in already standing houses are insulated from the inside. Thermal insulation can then be performed, provided the wall is not damp.
Internal vs external basement waterproofing
I want my basement to be well insulated – we say when we start construction. More questions arise: to insulate it from the inside (after completion of work) or the beginning (at the stage)?
Good thermal insulation of the basement walls reduces heat loss and is an important factor in creating an impression of thermal comfort. Effective insulation of walls will prevent future foundation crack waterproofing.
It is worth remembering: if possible, we always insulate the basement from the outside; the insulation from the inside will be a less effective wall.
Waterproofing exterior basement walls cost
The price of waterproofing external walls can depend on several important factors. The first and most important is the condition of the soil and the level of groundwater. Insulation prices on good soils and low water tables are less complicated. Thanks to this, the price can be much more attractive. The second is the choice of waterproofing products.
The price of foundations increases with the difficulties in the area. High groundwater levels and moist soil make the work difficult. In addition, more materials must be used to build the foundation. As a result, this will lead to higher prices for digging and pouring the foundation. In some situations, it is impossible to build a traditional continuous support.
The cost of waterproofing external walls depends on the conditions of the territory. Insulation of the foundation on a dry base implies only the installation of foil or bituminous paper. In the case of a higher water table, strong foundation insulation will be required.
The construction price list will also depend on the wage rate. The cost of services in different parts of the country may vary slightly.