Building a custom home is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences. However, it can be frustrating to find out that your new house doesn’t have an easy fix for making it waterproof. If you’re planning on building a custom home shortly, we recommend taking these steps to ensure that your investment will last for years to come.
Install a French Drain
A French drain is a system that is designed to collect water from the soil and direct it away from home. The method for doing this varies depending on whether or not your house design has a basement, crawlspace, or full foundation.
You can install a sump pump and pipe the excess water to a drain outside the structure in basements and crawl spaces. For homes with full foundations, you will need to build trenches around the house and add gravel, perforated piping, and an inflow and outflow to direct water away from the foundation. French Drains are very effective in preventing moisture from collecting near your foundation, which can cause numerous problems with exterior walls when left unchecked.
Add an Underground Sump Pump
Sump pumps are crucial to prevent water from collecting around your foundation, but they’re only effective if you can keep the pump dry. Installing an underground sump pump is necessary for protecting your home against major storms. The best way to do this is by adding gravel around the structure and then covering it with a tarp enclosed by a waterproof cover. If you want a more long-term solution, you can also add a French drain system around the house.
Install a Vapor Barrier Frame
A vapor barrier is a thin sheet that can prevent water from passing through insulation in your home and into the structure itself. A simple way to do this is by laying down 6ml plastic over your entire ceiling before adding insulation. This will prevent moisture from entering the home or collecting in your insulation during significant storms or unforeseen events. It’s important to check this area for any signs of mold, which can be an unfortunate side effect of water damage.
Consider Using a Waterproofing Membrane on the Exterior Walls
Waterproof membranes are similar to a vapor barrier, but they’re designed for protecting the exterior of your home. They can help prevent moisture from entering your structure and cause problems with paint or insulation in older homes. t’s best to apply this material before adding new siding for your house.
A waterproofing membrane is a thin sheet that’s applied over the existing exterior wall. It can protect against water pooling and help keep the insulation of your exterior walls from becoming damaged by the elements.
It’s also a good idea to think about getting rainscreen products for exterior walls, as this can prevent water from seeping into the home and causing several other problems. Sprayers or brushes usually apply these membranes, so it’s an easy addition to any custom home build. If you choose to use one of these solutions, keep a very close eye on the area for signs of mold or other problems.
Use Flashing Around Windows and Doors
It’s a good idea to install flashing around all windows and doors, as this will help keep water from seeping under the door or through areas of the wall adjacent to windows. Installing these materials is a relatively easy addition that can prevent many problems with your exterior walls during heavy storms. While it’s possible to use vinyl, metal is a much better choice for homes that will be exposed to a large amount of moisture or high-speed winds.
These materials can help prevent water from seeping into your walls and causing issues over time, but they’re only effective if you regularly inspect them for signs of damage. As long as you’re proactive in cleaning these areas, you can tell when water is breaking through in these spots. With regular maintenance, you’ll be able to prevent many problems that could come from excess moisture or water damage.
Seal All Cracks in Concrete Slabs
Concrete slabs are generally very sturdy and can withstand a lot of pressure, but they can become damaged when left unchecked. It’s essential to inspect your foundation for any cracks or areas where the slab is not flush with the surrounding soil.
Water seeping through these cracks can cause problems with insulation and make it more likely that mold will grow. It’s a good idea to use caulk or high-strength sealant on the joints between your concrete slab and exterior walls. This will help keep water out of these areas and prevent damage from occurring over time.
Add Gutters with Downspouts for Water Runoff
There are several reasons why it’s essential to maintain the exterior of your home correctly, but water runoff is one area that can cause problems with exterior walls. Suppose you want to prevent that pooling water from causing issues with your foundation or basement walls. In that case, it’s a good idea to install gutters with downspouts near any areas where water comes into contact with your exterior walls. This way, you can prevent moisture from seeping into the area around your foundation and causing any damage that could cost a lot to repair down the line.
Install Vents or Roof Monitors for Ventilation
There are several ways to prevent moisture build-up inside your home, but by installing vents or roof monitors on the exterior of your house, you can help remove some excess water from your attic or basement. This will decrease the likelihood that your home becomes too saturated with moisture, which can cause mold problems and wear away at insulation over time.
These vents are often installed near the top of your roof, so it’s essential to keep an eye on them during heavy rains. If you notice any leaking from these fixtures, make sure to clean up the area with a towel and tighten up any loose screws in the vent itself.
Using these techniques will help protect your home against water damage inside or outside of its structure, which is why it’s vital to clean gutters and inspect your home for any signs of wear. By catching moisture problems early, you can prevent a lot of unexpected expenses down the line and protect one of your most significant investments with ease.