Water entry through infiltration into the building is one of the main problems that can affect the property. Every year, we meet with several owners on this subject. Water infiltration into the building can cause impressive damage to your property. Damage that can result in high costs, as well as risks to the health of occupants. In this article, solutions to prevent this phenomenon are presented.
1. The slope of the exterior earthworks of the building
The general topography of the land and surroundings of the house should allow surface water to flow towards municipal sewers, ditches or other parts of the land, where it can be absorbed without problems into the ground. Water should be kept away from the building so that the foundation is not in constant contact with water.
Neglecting surface water drainage causes water to accumulate along the foundation. In addition, a quantity of water which drains along the foundation, if it does not have an adequate French drain, at the edge of the footings of the foundation, this accumulation of water can then empty under the slab of concrete of the basement floor, thus contributing to increasing the humidity level inside the building. In addition, if this foundation has cracks and is not adequately waterproofed, water can soak into the concrete by capillary action, and then infiltrate into the basement.
Figure 1 Negative slope towards the building
However, despite this threat, people often neglect this fundamental maintenance of the flow slope. To prevent significant problems caused by the presence of water, it is therefore necessary to improve the control of runoff water.
Some of the strategies to consider include:
- the installation of a trench to collect surface water
- the installation of a retaining wall
- the installation of a drain
2. The distance between the downspout and the foundation
Downspouts collect water from roof gutters and direct it to a specific location. They make it possible to control the water supply and reduce the humidity present along the foundation.
Figure 2 Downspout that discharges too close to the foundation
During heavy rain, the inflow of water from downspouts can be significant. This large quantity of water brought to a specific point, near the foundation, can overload the soil and increase the quantity of water near the foundation. This excess water can be the cause of water and humidity infiltration inside the building.
3. Well of light (Margelle)
Basement windows are a place to take serious consideration, because this is where rainwater can enter easily and abundantly, if it does not have a coping and if it is too close to the ceiling. ground. To prevent water from infiltrating through the basement windows, make sure to have a clearance of at least 20 cm (8 in) between the finished exterior ground and the underside of the basement window.
Figure 3 Required coping
When this distance cannot be respected, a coping must be added, in order to clear the framing from the damp ground.
Figure 4 Typical coping installation
4. Sump and retention pit:
Sumps or retention pits are used in the building to collect rainwater that comes from outside or from the French drain, and convey it outside in a secure manner.
The sump is defined by the requirements of article 9.14.5.2. Sump of Chapter I, Building of the Quebec Construction Code.
According to this article, a sump must:
• have a depth of at least 750 mm (30 in),
• have a surface area of at least 0.25 m2 (2.7 ft2), and
• be fitted with a cover designed so that it cannot be removed by children.
Figure 5 Installing the sump (Source: rbq.gouv.qc.ca)
The retention pit is defined by the requirements of article 2.4.3.7. Retention pit from Chapter III, Plumbing. According to this article, a retention pit must:
• be made in one piece, waterproof and smooth on the inside;
• have a length of at least 600 mm (24 in), measured in the direction of its drain pipe;
• have a width of at least 450 mm (18 in); And
• have a diameter of at least 600 mm (24 in), in the case of a circular pit.
Figure 6 Installation of retention pit (Source: rbq.gouv.qc.ca)
How could the building inspector help you?
During the inspection, we try to check for all clues and signs of water infiltration into the building. We recommend the modifications required to properly protect the property against water infiltration and its economic effects and the well-being of residents. At Habitation Prestige, we use all our experience, as well as our useful techniques to ensure the condition of the building against water infiltration and protect you.
Take advantage of our building expert services, it’s reassuring! We are here to help you clarify the problematic situation and inform you of the corrective measures to be taken, contact us by email at info@habitationprestige.com or by text at 514-742-4663 and we will get back to you quickly to discuss the matter. your needs.
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