Preserving the history of these homes while also protecting them for the future is crucial. This is why it’s so important to understand waterproofing basement solutions and how they can both protect and preserve your historical home. Waterproofing your basement is essential for preventing water damage, mold growth, and even structural damage. It’s the best way to ensure your home will last for many more years.
In this guide, we will discuss the importance of waterproofing your basement in Boston and how waterproofing pertains to historical homes in the area. Keep reading to learn more!
Understanding the Challenges of Basement Waterproofing in Historical Homes
Waterproofing an older home is sometimes more challenging than waterproofing a modern home. The structure has aged, and the way homes were originally built presents its own challenges. Using a professional who has experience with historical homes can make a huge difference.
While age of original construction might complicate the process some, it doesn’t make it impossible. And many of those old homes probably need waterproofing the most in order to preserve and protect them.
Some challenges of waterproofing a historical home might include::
- Finding proper footings to use for waterproofing.
- Older homes are more delicate.
- Specialized solutions might be needed.
- Lack of support or features.
- Requires more extensive procedures.
- Requires skills and knowledge of historical homes.
Common Causes of Basement Water Damage in Boston’s Historical Homes
Many historical homes are more susceptible to basement water damage because of their age or original construction. This is why basement waterproofing is so vital for these homes.
Much like modern homes, certain things cause more water damage for historical homes. These are some of the most common causes of basement water damage in Boston:
- Flooding.
- High water tables.
- Leaky foundations.
- Termite damage.
- No existing sump pump.
- Improper grading.
- Settled and aged foundation.
- No exterior drainage.
Old homes were built much differently than modern homes, but you can use modern techniques to help protect them.
Best Practices for Basement Waterproofing in Boston’s Historical Homes
There are several solutions that you can use to waterproof your historical home in Boston. Just be sure to use a professional provider who knows how to properly incorporate these solutions to meet the needs of your home.
Here are some quick overviews of common basement waterproofing solutions that might be the right fit for your property:
- Interior Drainage: A French drain is an interior drain set around the perimeter of your basement. In an old home, the seepage that is coming in can be directed into the French drain and away from the home.
- Sump Pump: Your home may be a candidate for a sump pump, which many historical homes do not have. These pumps collect and divert water away from the home.
- Foundation Crack Repairs: If you have cracks in your foundation, repairing them with foundation crack repairs will help to waterproof and protect from additional damage.
- Foundation Wall Wrap: A foundation wall wrap is a membrane placed around the walls to seal and keep out moisture and water vapor.
- Exterior Drainage Solutions: Your best option may include a mix of exterior drainage solutions as well as interior options. This includes guttering, dry wells, and other means to provide proper grading and drainage for the exterior of your home.
In some cases, you may need a combination of interior and exterior solutions to help protect your home and ensure it is safe from water. We didn’t mention moisture control systems above, but these units can also help control moisture levels and humidity—not just in the basement, but in the entire home.
Preserving the Historical Integrity of Your Home
When you are implementing waterproofing solutions in a historical home, there are many things that you need to be mindful of. The key is to protect your home, but to maintain historical integrity as well. Whatever solution you ultimately use, make sure not to do anything that will take away from the historical elements of the home. An experienced Boston waterproofer who has worked with older homes will know exactly what to do. It is absolutely imperative that you work with an experienced professional to find the best solution, to ensure your waterproofing needs are met and that they really will be effective for your Boston home.
Drycrete Waterproofing’s Experienced Team Can Waterproof the Basement of Your Historical Home in Boston
Drycrete Waterproofing has extensive experience working on all kinds of properties, including historical homes in Boston. We can help you create the perfect solution to keep your home safe while maintaining its historical integrity as well.
Contact us today for a free quote for your basement waterproofing needs.