FAQs Archive - Page 14 of 16 - The City Wide Group

Q: How do I know if my home needs underpinning?

If you've noticed signs of foundation settling, such as cracks widening in your walls or floors, doors and windows that no longer fit properly, or ongoing water intrusion issues despite waterproofing efforts, your home may benefit from underpinning. This process strengthens and stabilizes your foundation, addressing the root cause of these symptoms.

Q: Can basement waterproofing completely stop my basement from leaking?

Yes, effective basement waterproofing can significantly reduce or completely stop leaks in your basement. In Mississauga, where weather conditions can vary dramatically, our comprehensive waterproofing solutions are designed to address the specific challenges your home faces, ensuring a dry basement regardless of the season.

Q: I have a leaky basement in Toronto - can you help?

[fusion_builder_container type="flex" hundred_percent="no" equal_height_columns="no" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" background_position="center center" background_repeat="no-repeat" fade="no" background_parallax="none" parallax_speed="0.3" video_aspect_ratio="16:9" video_loop="yes" video_mute="yes" border_style="solid"][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type="1_1" type="1_1" background_position="left top" border_style="solid" border_position="all" spacing="yes" background_repeat="no-repeat" margin_top="0px" margin_bottom="0px" animation_speed="0.3" animation_direction="left" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" center_content="no" last="no" hover_type="none" min_height="" link=""][fusion_text] Absolutely! A leaky basement in Toronto means that it's not properly protected from water runoff. Unless addressed, your leaky basement in Toronto can become a flooded basement during a heavy rain, which in turn will lead to far more expensive repairs. If you find a leaky basement in Toronto, please reach out so we can take and a look and help you protect your home. [/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Q: Can I just do interior basement waterproofing, or do I need more?

Interior basement waterproofing is a great start, especially for immediate water issues. It can protect your basement from moisture coming through walls and floors. However, for the best protection, especially in Toronto's climate, you might also need exterior waterproofing to handle water before it reaches your foundation.

Q: What is hydrostatic pressure, and how does it affect my basement?

Hydrostatic pressure is the force that water in the soil exerts on your home's foundation. It can push water through cracks, leading to a leaky basement. A good waterproofing system helps protect your basement from this pressure.

Q: What should I do about a foundation crack?

Foundation cracks can let water into your basement, leading to a leaky basement. It's important to get crack repairs done as soon as you notice them. Fixing cracks early can save you from bigger problems caused by water damage or hydrostatic pressure.

Q: Can I do waterproofing and underpinning at the same time?

Often, it makes sense to do both at the same time, especially if digging is already needed for underpinning. This can be more efficient and might even save money in the long run. City Wide Group can look at what your home needs and suggest doing both together if it's the best option.

Q: How much disruption does underpinning cause?

Underpinning can be a bit more disruptive than waterproofing because it might involve digging around your home's foundation. But, professionals work to keep the disruption as low as possible. The process is well-planned and communicated, and many homeowners find the benefits outweigh the temporary hassle.

Q: Does fixing my basement add value to my home?

Yes, fixing and protecting your basement with waterproofing and underpinning can raise your home's value. These improvements make your home safer, work better, and more attractive to buyers. Homes that are well-cared for and safe from common problems like leaks and foundation damage are more appealing to potential buyers.

Q: How long does waterproofing last?

The life of your basement waterproofing depends on what methods are used and the conditions around your home. Exterior waterproofing usually lasts a long time, sometimes decades, while interior systems like sump pumps might need checks or changes more often. City Wide Group offers basement waterproofing services that come with a lifetime warranty for some services, giving you long-term protection.