Basement Waterproofing Photo Album: Charlotte, MI - Getting a Flooded Basement Ready for Finishing

Drew called us because the perimeter system another company had installed wasn't working - just ask the inches of water on the basement floor. They had aspirations to finish the basement in the next few years, and they couldn't do that until they knew it would be dry all the time. We installed a new perimeter system - one that actually works - as well as a Triple Safe sump pump and cross tile to help evacuate the water faster. We also installed window well duct drains on their two egress windows, which were a major source of the flooding.

Flooding Forces Creative Basement Storage

It's hard to think about finishing your basement when you can't even use the existing floor space because it's covered in water. Unless you're thinking of furnishing the room with Tupperware.

Bad Waterproofing Job Needs a Redo

While they had a perimeter system installed by another company, it clearly wasn't doing its job. First off, there was no sump pump installed, and secondly, the windows needed a drainage solution. So we tore out the previous installation and did everything the right way.

Windows Cause Flooding in Basement

Any time you're working below grade (that is, below ground), you need to take extra precaution to make sure everything is air - and water - tight. Egress windows are already prone to water collection, so if they aren't installed properly, water will leak right through into your basement.

Egress Windows Are a Source of Flooding

If your windows weren't installed properly, they can be a huge headache when it comes to water problems.

WaterGuard Installation in Progress

After removing the old system, we laid down WaterGuard track around the entire perimeter of the basement.

Tying WaterGuard into the Sump Pump

By tying the WaterGuard system into the sump pump, we can be sure the water is being directed right to the sump and then outside via the discharge lines.

Cross Tile Prevents Waterlogged Corners

When there are multiple low points in a basement, a large distance between walls, or a particularly prone water spot, we install crosstile to ensure the water can move quickly and freely to the sump pump.

Window Well Drain Prevents Flooding

Instead of just hoping the windows don't leak, we installed window well ducts that are tied right into the WaterGuard so the water can be discharged proactively.

Restoring the Floor After WaterGuard Installation

After new concrete is poured on top of the WaterGuard, the floor is as good as new - or better, since it isn't covered in two inches of water.

Triple Safe Sump Pump Ensures Water Removal

The Triple Safe sump pump has three different pumps AND a battery backup, which means it won't fail and it won't die. Which means your basement will stay dry.