Restoring a Dry, Healthy Basement in Garden City, MN
Challenge
After living in his Garden City home for more than 40 years, this homeowner began noticing problems that hadn't been an issue before. Over the last few years, water intrusion during heavy rains and spring snowmelt started finding its way into his finished basement. Along with the moisture came elevated humidity levels and signs of mold growth, creating concerns about both the health of the space and the damage being done to his home.
Because the basement was finished, the situation presented additional challenges. Water-damaged walls and flooring would need to be removed and replaced, and any new materials installed would need to withstand the basement environment. The homeowner wanted more than a temporary fix. He wanted a permanent solution that would keep the basement dry while maintaining it as a comfortable, attractive living space for years to come.
Solution
To permanently solve the water intrusion issues, our team installed a full perimeter WaterGuard system. Unlike traditional drain tile systems that can become clogged with soil and debris, WaterGuard is installed just above the footing along the interior perimeter of the basement. This allows it to collect water entering at the wall-floor joint and direct it to the sump system before it can reach the living space.
To address moisture coming through the foundation walls, we installed CleanSpace. This durable vapor barrier helps prevent moisture from entering the basement while directing any wall seepage into the WaterGuard system below. Together, these systems work to manage both groundwater and wall moisture before they become a problem.
Collected water is then pumped safely away from the home by a SuperSump system. For additional protection, we added an UltraSump 4 battery backup system, ensuring the basement remains protected even during power outages, when many flooding events are most likely to occur. Especially in rural Minnesota.
Once the waterproofing system was complete, we focused on rebuilding the finished space using materials designed specifically for basement environments. We installed the EverLast Wall Restoration System to replace drywall that had been impacted by water and moisture damage. This system uses metal studs, vinyl-faced cement board, and PVC trim instead of traditional organic materials. Because it is made with inorganic components, it resists mold and mildew growth, making it an ideal long-term solution for basements with a history of moisture problems.
To improve air quality and maintain healthy humidity levels, we installed a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier. The Sedona removes moisture from the air more efficiently than standard box-store dehumidifiers, helping create a drier, healthier environment while reducing the risk of future mold and mildew growth.
Finally, the basement was finished with ThermalDry Elite Plank Flooring. Unlike traditional flooring materials that can be damaged by basement moisture, ThermalDry flooring is designed specifically for below-grade spaces. It provides the attractive look of hardwood flooring while remaining resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew.
Today, this Garden City homeowner can enjoy his basement with confidence. What was once a damp, humid space prone to water intrusion is now a dry, comfortable, and healthy part of the home, protected by a complete waterproofing and restoration system designed to perform for years to come.
