Find Out How Weather Can Impact Your Basement Waterproofing Job

Jan 20, 2017
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Deciding when to waterproof your basement is just as important as deciding who and how. Weather plays a huge role on the overall quality of your waterproofing Toronto project largely depending on the specific type of waterproofing solution. It is therefore necessary to understand how the weather affects basement waterproofing to help you make the right decision on when to take on this essential project. Cold winter weather and rain are the biggest potential impediments to a quality result.

Impact of rain on waterproofing

Rain complicates both indoor and outdoor waterproofing jobs. Rain results in leaks, meaning that cracks need to be repaired as soon as possible. Epoxy does not adhere to wet surfaces, so an epoxy injection is not a viable repair solution during wet seasons. Polyurethane on the other hand is not affected by rain or moisture, and therefore a good waterproofing solution even in rainy conditions.

Rain can also impact excavation as a waterproofing solution. In fact, it is highly advised not to undertake excavation jobs during rainy seasons. This is because the wet soil poses a real risk of cave-ins. It may however be possible to do drain repair Toronto when working with an experienced contractor.

Impact of winter weather on waterproofing

Winter weather generally affects outdoor waterproofing. Surprisingly, winter may be the best time to perform crack injections. This is because the concrete shrinks, exposing the cracks to their maximum widths. This makes it easier to identify and fill in gaps. It is worth noting that polyurethane resin takes longer to cure in cold weather.

Although epoxy crack injections can be done during the winter, the cold weather does affect its viscosity. This translates into longer curing time.
 
Lastly, excavation should be avoided as much as possible during the winter. Just like rain, cold weather poses risk of cave-ins. In addition to this, the excavation may be subject to frost damage during the winter.

The best time to perform basement waterproofing

Experts agree that the summer or mild-weather seasons are the best times to perform basement waterproofing jobs. It is therefore prudent to anticipate cold weather and rain, and take care of the necessary repairs and renovations well before the season arrives.

Where this is not possible, a qualified and experienced contractor can assess the weather conditions and job site and decide on the best course of action that will yield the best results.

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