Your foundation is the base of support for the whole structure of your home. In Canada, foundations are below the frost line to ensure the foundation does not shift as the ground freezes and thaws with Canadian winters. Foundations today are made out of poured concrete or concrete block with a wall on top of a footing. The exterior of the wall is coated with a bitumen-based product for water repellence then a foundation barrier membrane (commonly referred to as core-drain) is placed on top.
These barriers prevent water from penetrating the wall and keep damp earth away from the wall reducing the degradation of concrete. Together these products create a comfortable living space in your basement. Water should be removed by drainage tile which is placed level with the footing under the level of the floor on the outside of the wall. Therefore, as the water rises the water should be drained before it ever reaches the level of the floor. When the water either enters the wall through penetration or water is unable to be removed by the drainage tile (piping level with footing) water has the chance to rise and enter the basement.
Older homes were not given this foundation barrier (Core-Drain) as it is a relatively new product. Older homes were usually only coated in the bitumen type material that degrades over time. If the foundation settles and moves over time due to changing soil conditions or exterior factors (vibration, excavation, etc.) the foundation can develop cracks and allow for moisture to penetrate the wall. The other major problem is the inability of the drainage tile to move away enough water to keep up with the level of groundwater. This can be caused by reduced capacity in the piping due to failure of the piping or silting-in with soil from around the piping if inadequate drainage stone was used.
At Dowling General Construction, it has taken us a lifetime to perfect how to solve foundation issues so you can have peace of mind when we leave that your home will be dry and enjoyable for you moving forward.
Please feel free to reach out for a free consultation and estimate.