Why Water Management is Not Enough

In the world of waterproofing, many times we come across companies that offer “water management” for South Dakota homes. Control the water and manage it. Isn’t that exactly what you want? Unfortunately, it isn’t. Water management is merely a tool that can be used when waterproofing and it should not be the sole tool used to make sure that water is not entering your home. In this article, we will discuss some of the ways that water management is not enough to protect your home.

What is Water Management?

Generally, water management can be described as the process of redirecting water that has entered your home to systems that will get it out. This could be a sump pump, a drainage system, or some other method. This sounds pretty reasonable, and it can even be employed as a last ditch tactic when waterproofing. However, it’s just that–the last option that you should use.

Water management focuses on that water that has already entered your home, but it does not work to prevent water from entering your home. While it may be directed out, when water enters the foundation, it is causing problems that could lead to foundation repair issues. This is why it’s important to start with waterproofing, get to the root of the problem and resolve that, and then as an added safety measure include a sump pump for peace of mind.

How is Waterproofing Different?

With waterproofing, we will find the source of the issue and resolve that. Usually waterproofing is not a singular event caused by an open window or anything like that. In most cases, there is a root cause due to foundation damage. The most common way that people begin to see waterproofing issues is through hydrostatic pressure on the foundation. When the foundation is dug for a home, extra space is left around it so that the workers can get in to build it. This area is then back-filled, but it can cause problems because it is not properly compacted and the home does not have supports in the solid ground past the back-fill. Therefore, over time the loose soil will get saturated with water and begin to exert pressure on the foundation. This will cause cracks. Cracks let in water, pests, and moisture. Eventually, the wall will begin to bow and lean if left to its own devices. This is why it’s so important to not just cover up wall cracks. Look for the source!

After we have resolved the foundation repair issues, usually with an underpinning method, we will then fix any more cosmetic issues like wall cracks. These can be fixed with epoxy injection or another method which fits with your foundation type and situation. After that, we may include a sump pump for peace of mind. This all depends on your specific situation, but usually this in situations where we know that the home is built on low ground or that there will be flooding no matter what (in a floodplain, etc.). The sump pump provides peace of mind that if water does enter, it will at least be directed out of the home. However, in this situation, it’s important to regularly get your foundation inspected so that any issues from water seepage and erosion can be caught early and resolved.

Be Careful with Companies Offering Only Water Management

While “water management” may seem like a fancier way to say “waterproofing,” be wary of companies that offer ONLY water management systems and no waterproofing services. If they are not getting to the root of the problem and resolving foundation issues then your home is not waterproofed! You will continue to get water inside your home. Even if you have a water management system which redirects the water away, you will still get water coming through your foundation and causing you even great issues. It’s best to get waterproofing services from an experienced professional who will resolve your foundation issues and waterproof your home.

If you’re confused about water management vs. waterproofing, we hope this article has helped. When you’re in need of waterproofing and foundation repair services, it’s time to call Rapid Foundation Repair. We are experienced area professionals who will work with you to get your home waterproofed and back to being safe and comfortable. Give us a call today and get started!