Foundations
In this section you will find a series of columns on “Why Block Basements Fail?” They were the background for Cam’s booklet of the same name released in 2004. Columns based on basement waater invasion and management are also located here.
How to Evaluate and Repair Block Foundation Cracks
It is no secret that numerous parts of Canada, such as Alberta, Montreal and Southwestern Ontario, are seeing excessive rainfall right now.
Foundations & Flood Safety
For the past two weeks I have been answering a three-part question from Tammy, a reader in Western Canada. We have covered renovating and restoring
Block Basements: My Pick for a Foundation
There is no perfect foundation, older homes and stone foundations had their good and bad points and they were the only real choice for hundreds of years.
Block Basements: Grade & Sump Pump
In part five we got the block foundation walls cleaned, covered in a waterproof coating and reset the drainage tiles, then
Basements!!!
I have often been asked, why do we even have basements? The largest single reason: frost. If our homes are not based upon a solid frost-resistant foundation they
Block Basements: The Dig Begins
Last week we listed off the procedures that are needed to properly prepare a site for excavation around a block basement, in previous weeks we discussed waterproofing methods
Block Basements: We Excavate
In part 3 we looked at the different kinds of coatings and membranes that are used on block basements to correct dampness and outright water invasion. This week
Block Basements: Waterproofing
This is the third in my series on block foundations and we now look at the numerous kinds of materials, coatings and membranes on the market that are
Block Basements: Why They Fail
The number one issue with a block basement is moisture; blocks are not waterproof…period. Water will penetrate any mortar crack, open seam or just about any opening for
History: Pros & Cons of Block Basements
With well over 40 plus years of building, renovation and building assessment experience block basements are continuing reminder that