Floor Cracks

Steps to Waterproof A Leaky Floor Crack

When it's necessary to fix a leaking basement floor crack, we at Foundation Systems of Michigan usually suggest installing a lateral line drainage system to collect water from the crack and redirect it to your sump pump system. When installing this kind of floor drainage system, we follow these three steps:

1. Install A Perimeter Drainage System: We strongly recommend that your first step is to install a perimeter drainage system. This will often intercept the water before it reaches your floor crack, ensuring a dry basement and eliminating the problem.
2. Install a Drainage Channel, Starting at the Crack: When direct drainage is necessary, we can remove a section of the basement floor and run a line of PVC underneath. This PVC line would lead to your sump pump. When pitched properly, any water entering the drain will be directed naturally to the sump pump.
3. Re-cement the Floor: After the drain has been installed, your waterproofer will back fill with stone and place fresh concrete over the area for a clean, professional look. Allow three days for this concrete to cure properly before walking on it or reapplying weight to the surface.