Exterior Waterproofing in Laurel, Maryland

Challenge

This client was worried about the accumulation of water seeping into the basement. The design of the stairs leading to the basement facilitated the entry of water but provided no exit at the bottom, leading up to the door. Consequently, during rainfall, the water had no other place to go but inside the house. Given that the client had plans to finish the basement, it was crucial to find a quick solution to this problem.

Solution

To effectively address the customer's problem of water pooling in their basement, we devised a comprehensive solution that involved several steps.

Firstly, we decided to install a sump pump. The sump pump is a device that collects excess water and pumps it away from the house, preventing it from entering the basement. It is often used in basements that are prone to flooding or have a high water table. This method is effective in keeping basements dry and free from potential water damage.

In addition to the sump pump, we also installed a channel drain. A channel drain, also known as a trench drain, is a specific type of floor drain containing a dominant trough or channel-shaped body. It is used for the rapid evacuation of surface water or for the containment of utility lines or chemical spills. Installing a channel drain can help direct water away from the basement, reducing the chances of it pooling and causing issues.

Following these installations, we proceeded to set up an exterior discharge line. This line is a critical component in ensuring the effective removal of water. It works in conjunction with the sump pump, directing the water pumped out by the sump pump away from the house.

Lastly, we also installed an IceGuard system. This innovative system works as a safeguard against flooding caused by clogged or frozen discharge lines, which are common issues during the colder months. The IceGuard system allows water to escape from a sump pump discharge line if the pipe freezes or becomes blocked for any reason. This ensures that even in freezing weather, water can still be safely expelled from the basement.

Through this combination of measures, we aimed to create a robust defense against future flooding and water damage, providing our customer with a lasting solution to their issue.