Do the words âdamp proofâ or âdry wellâ mean anything to you? If you're not familiar with waterproofing terms, it can be difficult to figure out what you need to do to keep your basement and yard dry and healthy. Before meeting with a waterproofing contractor, read our glossary of waterproofing terms so you can better understand their recommendations and make the best decision for your home and family.
Damp Proof
The application of material (usually tar) to the exterior of a foundation that prevents moisture from seeping in.
Dehumidifier
An appliance that removes excess moisture from the air and controls dampness.
Dry Well
An underground pit that collects water being directed away from a home (from roofs, French drains, etc.) and stores it until water can seep into surrounding soil.
Erosion
Gradual degradation to soil and rock caused by flowing water. It can allow water to seep into basements or cause damage to lawns. Solutions include terracing, retaining walls and surface water management systems.
Exterior Daylight System
A system around the exterior perimeter of a foundation that includes an excavated trench and drainage system to prevent water from penetrating the foundation.
Exterior Waterproofing
Any waterproofing measures done on the exterior of a home or in the yard, driveway or surrounding area. Exterior waterproofing prevents water from penetrating foundations and directs water away from homes. Examples of exterior waterproofing include exterior drainage systems, exterior crack repair, erosion control, gutters, downspouts and regrading.
French Drain
An excavated trench along the exterior of a foundation. French drains control storm runoff and wet yard conditions and decrease the potential for water in basements by removing water from the soil near the foundation of the home. Trenches are generally 12â wide by 18â deep and contain a perforated pipe that absorbs water and redirects it away from the home.
Interior Waterproofing
Any waterproofing measures done on the interior of a home. Interior waterproofing evacuates water from basements and directs it away from homes. Examples of interior waterproofing include sump pumps, sub-floor drainage systems and interior crack repair.
Regrade
A raise of ground level created with clean backfill soil used to direct water away from the foundation of a home and therefore stop water from pooling nearby.
Sub-Floor Drainage System
A system that evacuates water from below the floor and the interior walls of a building to the sump pump or exterior daylight system.
Sump Pump
A pump used to remove water. It is installed in a tank below the interior floor or below the ground of an exterior foundation. A discharge pump evacuates water collected in the tank or drywell to a predetermined location away from the home.
Water Management System
A drainage network along the perimeter of the basement that evacuates water from below the floor and walls to the sump pump in order to be directed away from the home.
Want to learn more about waterproofing products and systems? Look for our next post on additional waterproofing terms in the New Year. To learn how NV Waterproofing can solve your water problems â and keep your home and yard dry, healthy and safe â visit nvwaterproofing.com or call 1-703-690-3889.
