Michigan Basement Waterproofing Solutions

photo of a finished waterproofed basement

Michigan homeowners face unique challenges due to high water tables and harsh freeze-thaw cycles that threaten basement integrity. Ignoring leaks can lead to serious issues, including mold growth and structural damage. At West Michigan Waterproofing, we specialize in protecting your home by ensuring your basement remains dry, safe, and structurally sound.

Interior drainage, also known as a “French Drain” or “perimeter drainage”, is the key to keeping your basement dry. The drain pipes are installed below your floor, next to the footing, and are surrounded by gravel. When water levels rise and hydrostatic pressure starts to build, these drain pipes will collect water and direct it to the sump pump basin where it can be pumped out and away from your home.

Benefits of a Dry Basement in Michigan and Interior Drainage Systems

A dry basement extends beyond just preventing leaks; it enhances your home’s value by increasing usable space, improving air quality, and reducing the risk of mold and structural damage. Interior drainage systems are crucial in maintaining this dry environment, effectively managing water intrusion by redirecting it away from your foundation.

The Installation Process

The installation of an interior drainage system is meticulous and adapted to the specific needs of Michigan homes:
Trenching: We carefully trench along the interior perimeter of the basement or crawl space.

Drain Pipe Installation: A perforated drain pipe is installed in the trench to capture groundwater.
Gravel Placement: The trench is filled with gravel to enhance drainage efficiency and support the pipe system.
Additional Features: Depending on the situation, we might also install weep holes and drainage matting to effectively manage water ingress.

The process for installing interior drainage starts with removing approximately 8-10” of the concrete floor along the basement perimeter

At West Michigan Waterproofing, we use an electric jackhammer outfitted with a HEPA dust collection system to break up the concrete.

When that is complete, we remove the concrete and dig our trench. Once the trench is complete, we add gravel, 4” perforated drain pipe, and finish with a layer of cement.

If your basement has a block wall foundation, we’ll also drill “weep holes” in each of the block cores to allow them to drain into our trench and remain dry. Prior to cementing, we install a drainage matting against the wall to cover the weep holes. Drainage matting also acts as a proactive protection barrier in case of a future leaking foundation crack.

Local Focus for West Michigan and Grand Rapids

Our solutions are specifically tailored to address the conditions typical to West Michigan and Grand Rapids, such as deeper trenching required for higher water tables. We provide detailed support in managing permitting requirements and offer flexible financing options to make the process as smooth as possible for local residents.

Why Choose West Michigan Waterproofing?

Choose us for our deep understanding of Michigan’s basement challenges, certified expertise in interior drainage solutions, and our commitment to using the highest quality materials for faster and more effective installations. Our track record of success and innovation sets us apart in the waterproofing industry.

Lifetime Warranty

Our lifetime warranty reflects our confidence in our waterproofing solutions. It's simple, straightforward, and transferable, offering you long-term peace of mind with your investment in a dry basement.

Interior drainage is backed by our simple, lifetime fully-transferable warranty. In fact, our warranty is written out directly to the home. Other companies may charge a yearly fee for their warranty as well as make you jump through hoops to transfer it when you go to sell your home. We would rather keep it simple. No worries about misplacing it either, as we always keep a copy on file.

Costs Associated with Interior Drainage Systems

We understand that cost is a significant consideration for many homeowners. We offer competitive pricing and can provide a range of financing options to suit different budgets. Our free quote consultations ensure that you understand all costs upfront, with no surprises.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Hear from our satisfied customers, whose testimonials reflect the reliability and effectiveness of our services. Their positive feedback is a testament to our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Kevin Rideout

“Great guys to work with. I had problems with my house flooding. I had West Michigan water proofing out, and they did a fantastic job. We had some problems with the pump, and they have had constant communication and came back to fix the issue every time. Without fail, these guys stand by their work with pride."

Rob Siegel

"I spoke with Jeramiah about some flooding issues we had in our basement. He came out the same day to listen to my concerns and explain all of the possible causes of the flooding and how best they could remedy that situation. Gave me an honest bid and got to work a few weeks later. While on the Job his foreman Joe was very communicative and informative about the work being done and what to expect. His crew had a great time on the job and treated my home with the utmost respect. They broke through the cement, and ran drainage hose around the entire foundation of the duplex, cleaned up and were out of the home in 3 days flat. Highly recommend West Michagan Waterproofing."

Lisa Driver, MI

"The team from West Michigan Waterproofing were awesome. The sales team was super easy to work with and were by FAR the most pleasant. Getting quotes for fixing a flooded basement isn’t a great time to feel pressured and they made sure I had all the information I wanted with absolutely no pressure to sign an agreement that day (unlike other companies who tried to give me a quote that was only good while the salesperson was at my home)

The team that did the install were on time, easy to work with, friendly and FAST. They were right on track with the time estimates I was given, did excellent work, and went above and beyond with their courtesy. Would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone with water issues in the basement. Thanks guys!"

Read More Testimonials

Don't let Michigan’s harsh environmental conditions threaten the safety and comfort of your home. Contact West Michigan Waterproofing today for a free consultation on how our basement waterproofing solutions can protect your property. Let us help you achieve a dry, healthy basement that enhances your home’s value and your quality of life.

How long does wall stabilization typically take from start to finish?

The duration of a wall stabilization project can vary widely depending on the extent of damage and the methods used. Small-scale projects might take a few days, whereas larger, more complex jobs could take several weeks.
Can wall stabilization be done in any weather condition?

Weather conditions can affect certain stabilization techniques, especially those involving external excavations or cementitious materials, that require dry conditions. We plan our projects to coincide with appropriate weather conditions to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of our work.
Will wall stabilization increase the value of my property?

Yes, effectively implemented wall stabilization not only ensures structural integrity but also enhances the property's market value and appeal by mitigating future risk of damage and the associated repair costs.
Are there any signs I should watch for that indicate my wall needs immediate attention?

Signs that require immediate attention include visible cracks that widen over time, walls that begin to bow or bulge, and evidence of moisture penetration, such as damp patches or mold. If these issues are observed, it's crucial to consult a stabilization expert promptly.
How do I know which wall stabilization technique is right for my property?

The appropriate technique depends on several factors, including the type of walls, the extent and nature of the damage, soil characteristics, and environmental conditions. A thorough assessment by a professional will help determine the most effective technique for your specific situation.
What maintenance is required after wall stabilization is completed?

Maintenance requirements are generally minimal but crucial for ensuring the longevity of the stabilization solution. This might include periodic inspections, ensuring drainage systems are clear of debris, and monitoring for any new signs of movement or damage.
Can you work with historical or older buildings that require wall stabilization?

Yes, we specialize in stabilizing walls in historical and older buildings, taking care to use methods and materials that preserve the building's integrity and aesthetic value while ensuring modern safety standards.
How often should I inspect my walls for potential issues after stabilization?

We recommend conducting professional inspections at least once a year, but homeowners should also monitor their walls seasonally, especially after extreme weather events or seismic activity.
Is there a difference in approach between residential and commercial wall stabilization projects?

While the fundamental principles of stabilization remain the same, commercial projects often involve larger scales and more complex logistics, requiring specialized equipment and coordination. Residential projects, on the other hand, typically focus on minimally invasive techniques to reduce impact on the home.
Will I need to vacate my property during the wall stabilization process?

Whether you need to vacate the property depends on the scope and nature of the work. For minor stabilization work, it may not be necessary to leave your home. However, for extensive repairs that involve significant structural changes, temporary relocation might be recommended for safety.

Contact West Michigan Waterproofing today for a FREE QUOTE.