Basement Waterproofing Photo Album: Waterproofing a Wet Basement in Lake Leelanau, MI

We've worked with this customer in the past; the basement of their home had both structural and water issues so we broke it up into a few projects. The first step was installing SmartJack support posts (a tale for another photo gallery) and then this spring we went in to waterproof. We installed a perimeter of WaterGuard below-floor drain and connected it to a new SuperSump pump to effectively collect and discharge incoming water. For the flood-prone area near the door, we used the TrenchDrain system, which has large grates to allow water to drain quickly. We also covered the walls with CleanSpace to keep ambient moisture under control from water coming through the walls.

Flooded Stone Wall Basement

This basement had major flooding issues, which take on a new difficulty level when stone walls are involved due to how water can seep through.

Signs of Water Damage in Wet Basement

Other than the obvious puddle of water, peeling paint on the walls is a signal that water is coming through.

Heavy Water Damage at Stairs

Stairways are notorious for high water influx. Not only can this damage the stairs over time, but it causes flooding at the base.

Water Damaged Basement

Note the heavy staining where the walls meet the floor. This is indicative of longstanding water problems.

Water on Basement Floor

This basement constantly had standing water, which in addition to being inconvenient can cause mold problems.

Sump Pump Can't Keep Up

In addition to not being powerful enough, this sump pump is constantly at risk for damage because it's open to the air - this means physical trauma or debris can take it down at any time.

Shoutout to SmartJacks

The previous phase of this project involved stabilizing the basement itself - this was achieved with SmartJack support posts.

Crumbling Stone Wall in Wet Basement

Water influx wears away the mortar between the stones in this basement wall.

TrenchDrain Prevents High Influx Water Backups

The TrenchDrain system is structured to allow water a rapid ad thorough exit through the use of larger grates. It's tied into the WaterGuard so water still routes to the sump pump.