Basement Waterproofing Photo Album: Basement Water Problem in Grand Rapids, MI

When we say that water problems never get better or resolve on their own, it isn't a scare tactic; it's just the truth. That was certainly the case in this Grand Rapids home, which we visited half a dozen times over the past decade for the same water problem before the homeowner decided to go with our solution. We installed WaterGuard and a SuperSump pump to effectively collect and discharge the water, and replaced the preexisting and water damaged wall panels with Brightwall panels, which are waterproof and inorganic, so they don't harbor mold.

Mold on Leaking Wall

Attractive, right? With constant water influx and organic materials around, mold can live - and spread - forever. That's why we work with inorganic and waterproof materials.

Peeling Paint on Waterlogged Basement Walls

One of the first indicators of a water problem (other than, ya know, puddles) is peeling paint on the walls. As water travels through the walls, it loosens the paint to forge a path, and eventually paint chips and peels right off.

Severe Water Damage at Base of Wall

In addition to the staining on the mortar surrounding the bricks - evidence of water influx - note the muck at the base of the wall.

What Lurks Behind Basement Finishings

By the time we installed this project, much of the finishing materials had been cut away throughout the years as the homeowner decided what to do. As you can see, the wood paneling near the top of the photo looks perfectly normal, but signs of water damage lurk beneath.

Getting Below the Floor

In order to install a below-floor drain system, we need to actually get below the floor. We accomplish this by jackhammering out a portion of the floor all around the perimeter, and then pouring new concrete once everything is installed.

WaterGuard Installation in Progress

We install WaterGuard around the perimeter of the basement to ensure that any influx of water is taken care of efficiently.

SuperSump Pump Efficiently Removes Water

By tying the WaterGuard right into the sump pump, we can be sure that the water all gets directed there to be funneled outside quickly.

Concrete Restores Floor

Once everything is in place, we pour new concrete to restore the floor. Once it's dry you'll hardly be able to tell - except for the dry basement, of course.

Old Wall vs. New Wall

Outside of the water resistant benefits of Brightwall and the ability to tie it into the WaterGuard, the aesthetic difference alone makes it worthwhile. Which wall would you rather look at while doing laundry?

Lawnscape Outlet Gives Discharge Line a Low Profile

By adding a Lawnscape outlet to the end of the discharge line, we can bury the line and keep it off of the lawn. This prevents trip hazards and landscaping inconvenience.

IceGuard Prevents Winter Backups

In the event of a frozen discharge line (it's Michigan - winter happens), the IceGuard system allows water an escape route rather than letting it back up into the basement.