Waterproofing
Water intrusion can damage foundation walls, create persistent moisture problems, and compromise below-grade structures. When groundwater collects against a foundation, it can enter through cracks, deteriorated mortar joints, and other vulnerable areas.
At Piracci's Landscaping, Inc., we provide exterior foundation and structural waterproofing services designed to stop water before it enters the building. Our work includes exterior excavation, foundation repairs, waterproof coatings and membranes, and protective measures that help prevent water penetration.
In Eastern Pennsylvania, seasonal rainfall, fluctuating groundwater levels, and pressure from saturated soil can contribute to foundation moisture problems. Older homes may also have aging masonry or deteriorated waterproofing systems that require additional attention.
Since expanding into waterproofing services in 1999, Piracci's Landscaping, Inc. has combined its experience in earthworks and foundation protection to address exterior water intrusion. Our approach considers both the condition of the foundation and the surrounding landscape.
Exterior Foundation Waterproofing
Exterior waterproofing creates a protective barrier between the foundation and the surrounding soil. Unlike interior water management systems, which collect water after it enters the building, exterior waterproofing focuses on preventing penetration through below-grade walls.Depending on the foundation's condition and the source of water intrusion, our services may include:
- Exterior excavation and foundation wall preparation
- Foundation crack and masonry repairs
- Waterproof coatings and membranes
- Protective layers over waterproofed surfaces
- Window well waterproofing
- Backfilling and exterior site restoration
Each project begins with an evaluation of the foundation, visible damage, surrounding soil conditions, and potential sources of water intrusion.
Excavation and Foundation Wall Preparation
Effective exterior waterproofing begins with exposing the affected foundation walls. Excavation provides access to below-grade surfaces that cannot be properly inspected or treated from inside the building.Before excavation, we assess the surrounding landscape, available working space, nearby structures, and foundation depth to determine how the affected area can be accessed.
Once exposed, the foundation surface is cleaned to remove accumulated soil, loose materials, and deteriorated coatings. Older stone, brick, and concrete foundations may require additional preparation to create a suitable surface for the waterproofing system.
Foundation Crack and Masonry Repairs
Cracks and deteriorated masonry can allow groundwater to penetrate foundation walls. However, the appropriate repair depends on the foundation material, extent of damage, and underlying cause.Our exterior waterproofing work may include repairing suitable cracks, addressing deteriorated mortar joints, and completing necessary masonry repairs before applying protective materials. Older foundations may also have previous repairs or weakened masonry that require additional attention.
Where significant movement or structural instability is suspected, further evaluation may be necessary before waterproofing proceeds.
Addressing existing defects helps establish a sound foundation surface and reduces potential pathways for water intrusion.
Exterior Waterproof Coatings and Membranes
Once the foundation has been prepared and necessary repairs completed, an appropriate exterior waterproofing system can be installed.Depending on the foundation material and site conditions, this may involve liquid-applied waterproof coatings, membranes, or other suitable below-grade waterproofing products.
Material selection considers the foundation's condition, expected groundwater exposure, and compatibility with the existing wall surface.
Unlike basic damp-proofing, which primarily resists soil moisture, waterproofing systems are designed to prevent liquid water penetration under their specified service conditions.
Protective layers may also be installed over the completed waterproofing system to help prevent damage from soil, stones, and backfilling operations.
Window Wells, Backfilling, and Site Restoration
Window wells and other below-grade openings can become vulnerable to water intrusion when surrounding soil directs runoff toward the foundation.Our exterior waterproofing work may include evaluating window well conditions, addressing accessible foundation joints, and improving waterproof protection around below-grade openings.
After the waterproofing system is installed, excavated areas are carefully backfilled to protect the completed work and reduce unnecessary soil settlement.
The surrounding ground is then restored with attention to surface water movement. Where additional measures are needed to redirect runoff or manage water around the foundation, our Drainage services address water movement across the surrounding property.
For properties experiencing interior seepage or standing water that requires collection and management inside the building, our Basement Waterproofing services address those interior water management needs.
