basement building
Poured Concrete
This is perhaps the most common type of basement construction. Most people consider this option because it is simple and sturdy. Poured concrete simply begins with pouring a footing for the home’s foundation. Forms are then used to hold the wall in place as they begin to dry. In turn, this results in strong basement walls that won’t cause any future water leak problems.
However, when water leaks do occur in this method, they generally develop between the joints of the walls and floor. Cracks can also form on the walls and this may cause small amounts of water to seep into the basement as time goes on.
Concrete Block
This is the cheapest option for basement construction that involves the use of masonry or concrete blocks. The walls consist of cinder blocks which can be constructed in no time to create a poured concrete wall. The strength of the wall is reinforced with steel rebar.
Concrete block walls are more prone to water leaks. In addition to the fact that water can leak from along wall and floor joints, water can also sometimes seep in through the mortar which holds each block in place.
The hollow nature of concrete blocks means that it can retain water for a long period of time after it gets in even when the soil around the block has dried up.
Precast Panels
This basement construction option is often chosen by builders of newer residential structures who wish to save money and time. The walls are fabricated elsewhere, then brought to the building site whenever its ready to be installed.
The walls are surprisingly strong but not as popular as concrete construction. Precast panels make use of a high strength, low-water mix which makes them to be more water-resistant in the long run.
However, if water damage do occur, it’s usually starts along the joint between the walls and the floor.
Stone or Clay Tile Walls
When buying an older or more historic home, you may discover that the basement has been constructed with stone or clay tile walls. Such were what was been used in the past decade and were the next option available when other materials were not available.
These walls can be very string but can also be more rudimental in nature. The biggest risk with stone or clay walls is that ground water the walls and into the basement easily.
This is mostly the case when you have stone walls with many gaps and cracks. There would need to be an interior drain system in order to address the problem.
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