Wet finished basement

[Bob]

Steve:
I am looking for advice about my finished lower level.
We have had water come in twice in the last 9 years. Both similar circumstances- a heavy snow and cold year and a fast thaw/rain- March.
Our finished area has a walk-out to a sunken patio.
The first time the water came in from that patio as well as through floor cracks. The second time I think it mostly came from the patio but we were not home to verify.
I have had an estimate on internal French drain, but wanted your thoughts on any outdoor remedy possibilities. Do they work, etc..

Can you advise.

[stevea]

In my professional opinion you should grade the land away from the foundation. Divert all downpouts at least 7 feet away from the foundation. If that does not take care of the problem, I would recommend installing a WaterGuard drainage system on the inside. WaterGuard is a less intrusive drainage system that will take care of the problem. As far as the expense of an exterior drainage system, not to mention the mess it will do to existing landscaping, I would not recommend an exterior system because it can not be maintained. In some soils you will be digging the pipe up in as little as 5 years.

WaterGuard has special inspection ports which can allow you to keep the drainage syetsm clean. I would recommend you having one of our certified waterproofing professionals come out and give you a free inspection and estimate. Call Tina at 1-800-649-6140 or request an appointment online.
Steve A