Responsible Basement Waterproofing in Topsham, Vermont, by Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems.
Challenge
In Topsham, Vermont, a home faced chronic water intrusion issues in its basement, particularly during heavy rains and the spring thaw. The homeowners were concerned about potential damage to their foundation, the risk of mold growth, and the impact on their home’s value and living conditions. They contacted Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems to design and implement a comprehensive waterproofing solution to address these concerns. The goal was to create a system to protect the basement and improve its overall environment year-round.
Challenges:
- Persistent Water Intrusion: Water frequently seeped through the basement’s walls and floor, creating an unusable space and increasing humidity.
- Freeze-Thaw Cycle: The severe winter temperatures in Vermont presented the challenge of preventing the discharge system from freezing and disrupting water flow.
- Mold and Air Quality Issues: High moisture levels in the basement contributed to mold and mildew growth, which affected the home's air quality and posed health risks.
- Structural Integrity: Consistent exposure to water puts the foundation at risk of long-term damage and could compromise the house's safety.
Solution
Northern Basement Systems provided an extensive waterproofing system featuring the following elements:
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TripleSafe Sump Pump System: This primary water management system included three levels of protection— a primary pump, a secondary battery-powered backup pump, and a third high-capacity pump to handle extreme conditions. This ensured the basement would stay dry despite severe weather conditions or power outages.
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WaterGuard Interior Drainage System: Installed along the perimeter of the basement, WaterGuard captured and directed water toward the sump pump. Its above-slab design made it easy to maintain and prevented blockages, ensuring consistent drainage.
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IceGuard System: To counter the freeze-thaw issues common in Vermont winters, the IceGuard system was added to the discharge line. This system featured built-in vents that allowed water to escape if pipes froze or became blocked, maintaining the sump pump’s functionality and preventing backups.
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LawnScape Discharge Line: Water collected by the sump pump was channeled through the LawnScape discharge line, which directed it safely away from the foundation. This system helped prevent water pooling around the house, maintain the yard's health, and prevent foundation issues.
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CleanSpace Wall System: The CleanSpace wall system was installed to prevent moisture from seeping through the basement walls. This durable, vapor-resistant liner provided an additional layer of protection, capturing water and guiding it toward the WaterGuard drainage system. It also enhanced the basement’s appearance and helped reduce humidity levels.
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Trench Drain System: A trench drain was installed where surface water frequently entered the basement, such as near doors or low-lying areas. This system captured and directed water into the WaterGuard system, improving overall water management and ensuring no water was left seeping through the floor.
Results:
The combination of the advanced waterproofing systems transformed the basement environment, providing numerous benefits:
- Total Water Prevention: The integrated approach of the TripleSafe sump pump, WaterGuard system, IceGuard discharge protection, LawnScape line, CleanSpace wall system, and trench drain effectively stopped water intrusion, even during heavy rain and snowmelt.
- Enhanced Basement Health: The CleanSpace wall system helped to create a drier, healthier environment by controlling humidity and reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth, resulting in improved air quality throughout the home.
- Preserved Structural Integrity: The basement’s waterproofing system protected the home’s foundation from water-related damage, maintaining its stability.
The waterproofing project in Topsham, Vermont, showcases Northern Basement Systems’ ability to deliver custom solutions that address complex water intrusion issues. By integrating the TripleSafe sump pump system, WaterGuard drainage, CleanSpace wall system, IceGuard discharge protection, LawnScape discharge line, and trench drain, the team successfully transformed the basement into a dry, safe, and health-promoting space. This project exemplifies the company’s commitment to protecting homes and providing homeowners with peace of mind.