Photo Album: Health Concerns Regarding Wet Basement in Andover, MA

Faced with a perennially wet basement since 1988, a homeowner from Andover, MA, sought our help. Their issue wasn't just the water; it was the musty smell and related health concerns it brought. As you can see in our photo gallery, we tackled their troubles head-on. Installing a complete waterproofing system including WaterGuard, TripleSafe Sump Pump, IceGuard, and CleanSpace liner, alongside a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier, we transformed their space. Now, their basement is dry, healthy, and comfortable.

Drainage Matting and Insulation in Crawl Space

The team initiated the project by installing drainage matting and SilverGlo insulation in the crawl space. The drainage matting enhances the durability and puncture resistance of CleanSpace and serves as a thermal break, offering additional insulation value. SilverGlo is a polystyrene insulation embedded with graphite, which delivers an exceptional R-value per inch.

Encapsulating the Crawl Space

CleanSpace serves as a vapor barrier, blocking moisture from the soil in the crawl space from seeping through. It effectively reduces mold growth, musty odors, wood decay, and other related issues.

Perimeter Drainage System

The foundation's perimeter was chipped away to create space for the installation of WaterGuard. This system is set within crushed stone to facilitate proper drainage towards the sump pump.

Concreting WaterGuard in Place

Once the system is tested to ensure proper drainage, WaterGuard is cemented in place.

Basement Wall Vapor Barrier

CleanSpace has been installed on the basement walls as well, offering the same advantages as in the crawl space. Moisture captured by CleanSpace is directly channeled into the WaterGuard system.

Basement Surface Drainage

TrenchDrain has been installed to gather water on the basement surface in areas where WaterGuard installation is not possible. It is designed to connect with the WaterGuard system, directing collected water into a single stream towards the sump basin.

TripleSafe Sump Pump System

When water flows into the TripleSafe's basin, it triggers one of the three pumps. Should intense storms or rapid snowmelt cause the basin to fill quickly, a second pump kicks in to manage the flow. In the event of an emergency, such as a power failure, a third battery-powered backup pump ensures the basement remains safeguarded against water intrusion at all times.

Water Removal from the Home

A discharge line runs from the sump pump to the exterior of the home to remove water. An IceGuard is fitted on the discharge line outside to prevent freezing. At the end of the line, a bubbler pot is installed to prevent water from pooling on the lawn's surface. Finally, the discharge line is buried to maintain the home's curb appeal.

Basement Dehumidifier

The installation of the SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier in the basement serves to combat mold proliferation and ensure the circulation of clean air throughout the area. This measure not only purifies the air in the basement but also contributes to the overall air quality of the home.