Complete Basement and Crawlspace Solution
Challenge
For this Mankato homeowner, the lower level of her 1956 home had become a constant source of stress. The unique layout, part basement and part crawlspace, created multiple pathways for moisture and water intrusion, making the area especially difficult to protect. Over time, repeated water issues had left visible damage behind, and the homeowner was increasingly concerned about what she couldn't see beneath the surface.
Even more alarming were the foundation walls. Signs of bowing indicated that years of pressure from the surrounding soil were taking a toll on the structure. Each season brought new concerns about whether the walls would continue to move and what the cost of delaying repairs might be.
The home's aging sump pump offered little reassurance. During heavy storms, when groundwater levels rose and water management was most critical, neighborhood power outages were common. If the power went out, the sump pump stopped working, leaving the basement vulnerable at the worst possible time. Every major rainstorm brought uncertainty and worry about potential flooding, additional damage, and costly cleanup.
The homeowner knew that patchwork repairs and temporary fixes would no longer be enough. She needed a comprehensive solution that would address not only the water entering the home, but also the structural concerns, humidity issues, and long-term reliability of the entire lower level.
Solution
Our Solution
After a thorough inspection, our team designed a comprehensive waterproofing, foundation stabilization, and moisture control system tailored to the home's specific needs.
To address water intrusion, we installed our WaterGuard perimeter drainage system. Positioned below the basement floor, WaterGuard captures groundwater before it can enter the living space and directs it to the sump system for safe removal.
For maximum reliability, we replaced the outdated sump pump with a TripleSafe sump pump system. Featuring multiple pumps and battery backup protection, the TripleSafe provides continuous operation even during power outages, offering peace of mind during Minnesota's heaviest storms.
To improve the appearance and moisture performance of the basement walls, we installed the CleanSpace Wall System. This durable vapor barrier helps direct wall moisture into the drainage system while creating a cleaner, brighter basement environment.
The home's structural concerns were addressed by installing our PowerBrace wall stabilization beams. These steel supports were strategically placed to stabilize bowing foundation walls and help prevent further inward movement. Over time, they can even be adjusted to put the wall back to its original place.
To improve safety and code compliance, we replaced an outdated basement window with a new RockWell egress window system, providing a safer emergency exit while allowing more natural light into the basement.
Finally, we installed a SaniDry Sedona dehumidification system to control humidity levels, reduce the risk of mold growth, and create a healthier, more comfortable lower-level environment.
The homeowner now has a complete solution that addresses water intrusion, foundation stability, humidity control, and basement safety. With the combination of this full waterproofing system, the lower level of the home is protected against future water events, in any weather.
What was once a source of ongoing concern has been transformed into a dry, stable, and healthier space backed by reliable systems designed to perform for years to come.
