Groundwater Control

March 17, 2021
by Charlie Priest

Water managed foundation systems prevent the build-up of water against foundation walls, thereby eliminating hydrostatic pressure. No pressure, no force to push water through a hole.

Groundwater Control

Water managed foundation systems rely on two fundamental principles:

  • keep rain water away from the foundation wall perimeter;

  • drain groundwater with sub-grade perimeter footing drains before it gets to the foundation wall.

Water managed foundation systems are different from waterproofing systems. Waterproofing relies on creating a watertight barrier without holes. It can’t be done. Even boats need pumps. Water managed foundation systems prevent the build-up of water against foundation walls, thereby eliminating hydrostatic pressure. No pressure, no force to push water through a hole. Remember, we know the foundation wall will have holes.

Mixing control joints with water management is a fundamental requirement for functional foundation systems that provide an extended useful service life. Dampproofing should not be confused with waterproofing. Dampproofing protects foundation materials from absorbing ground moisture by capillarity. Damp-proofing is not intended to resist groundwater forces (hydrostatic pressure). If water management is used, waterproofing is not necessary. However, control of capillary water is still required (damp-proofing). Damp-proofing is typically provided by coating the exterior of a concrete foundation wall with a tar or bituminous paint or coating.

Draining groundwater away from foundation wall perimeters is typically done with free-draining backfill such as sand, gravel or other water-permeable material, or drainage boards or exterior foundation insulations with drainage properties.


Groundwater Control Details

Figure 1

Groundwater Control with Basements

Certified Residential and Commercial Inspections 

  • Keep rain water away from the foundation perimeter
  • Drain groundwater away in sub-grade perimeter footing drains before it gets to the foundation wall

Figure 2

Groundwater Control with Crawlspaces

Certified Residential and Commercial Inspections 

  • Keep rain water away from the foundation perimeter
  • If the interior crawlspace is lower than the exterior grade, a sub-grade perimeter footing drain is necessary as in a basement foundation
  • The crawlspace in this configuration is conditioned space; it is part of the “interior” of the building and should be heated, cooled and ventilated as part of the building’s heating, cooling and ventilating strategy

Figure 3

Groundwater Control with Slabs

 Certified Residential and Commercial Inspections

  • Keep rain water away from the foundation perimeter
  • Do not place sand layer over polyethylene vapor barrier under concrete slab

Why Homeowners Often Avoid Inspections

Home inspections are a critical part of the home buying and selling process, providing valuable insights into a property's condition and potential issues. Some homeowners may choose to avoid inspections for various reasons. By understanding these factors, both buyers...

The Importance of Using a Line Voltage Indicator (Wiggy) in Home Inspections

When it comes to home inspections, ensuring safety is paramount. Among the many tools and devices utilized during the inspection process, the line voltage indicator, commonly known as a "Wiggy," plays a crucial role. Tennessee Inspection Services recognizes the...

Pinless vs. Pinned Moisture Meters: Choosing the Right Tool for Effective Home Inspections by Tennessee Inspection Services

During a home inspection, moisture meters play a vital role in identifying potential issues and evaluating the condition of a property. Tennessee Inspection Services understands the significance of moisture meters and utilizes them to enhance the accuracy of their...

Types of Pests That You Need to Keep Out of Your Home

Keeping pests out of your home is essential for maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment. Certain pests pose significant risks, ranging from health concerns to structural damage. Understanding the types of pests that can infiltrate your home and taking...

Pests To Be On The Lookout For When Buying Or Selling A Home

In the realm of home buying and selling, one of the major concerns is pests. These tiny invaders can cause significant damage to the property, degrade its value, and even create health risks. Comprehensive pest inspections are a crucial step in safeguarding your...

The Importance of Using Insulated Screwdrivers During Home Inspections

When it comes to conducting a thorough and safe home inspection, attention to detail is crucial. As a professional home inspector at Tennessee Inspection Services, we understand the importance of using the right tools for the job. In this blog post, we will discuss...

What You Can Do About Fire Risk in Your Home

We offer certified inspections for residential and commercial properties to both buyers and sellers. We emphasize the significance of fire safety in your home and provide measures to decrease fire risk and create a safer living environment. Ensure Electrical Safety...

The Consequences of Having Small Gaps in Your Roof

The integrity of your roof is critical for the overall protection of your home. Small gaps may seem insignificant but can lead to significant problems over time, including water leaks, pest infestations, and energy inefficiency. Understanding these potential issues...

The Crucial Role of Gas Leak Detectors in Home Inspections

Home inspections play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of homeowners. Among the numerous potential hazards that need to be assessed, gas leaks pose a significant threat. Gas leak detectors are indispensable tools for Tennessee Inspection Services and...

Demystifying Outlet Testers: Understanding Their Role in Home Inspections

When it comes to ensuring the safety and functionality of your home's electrical system, outlet testers play a vital role. During home inspections, these simple yet powerful devices are used to assess the condition of electrical outlets and detect potential issues. In...

Read Also

Let’s Talk About Your Inspection

Send Us an Email

charlie@tninspectionservices.com

Call Us

731-207-0601

Contact Us