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French drain, waterproofing and crack repair

Protect your foundations with a waterproofing membrane and a French drain installed to the highest standard.

Waterproofing and French drain

Installing a French drain and a waterproofing membrane keeps water infiltration under the footing, or between the footing and the foundation, to a minimum. The drain is normally connected to a sump.

A modern approach

Drains wrapped in textile were once common, but that practice is no longer recommended because the textile wrap clogs easily over time. Our current approach:

  • Covering the drain and the outside of the footing with clear crushed stone
  • Application of a 30-inch-wide geotextile membrane before backfilling
  • Maximum drainage while limiting contamination by the soil

Waterproofing membrane

We install most of the membranes available on the market. The best value is to apply a coat of bitumen (tar) on the foundation walls, then a delta-type membrane over it to protect against water infiltration and cracks.

Iron ochre soils

In soils prone to iron ochre bacteria (which clog French drains), we use rigid BNQ-type drains instead of flexible drains, covered with stone and a geotextile membrane.

Crack repair

Our team, which specializes in foundations and concrete, offers a crack repair service suited to the condition of your foundations. Depending on the situation, different techniques may be recommended, such as epoxy injection, foundation reinforcement or piling. Thanks to our turnkey approach, we can advise you on the appropriate solution and carry out the crack repair work on schedule, with particular attention to the quality of the work.

When should you replace your French drain?

A French drain has a service life of roughly 25 to 30 years. If you notice excessive humidity in the basement, traces of efflorescence on the foundation walls, or persistent musty smells, an inspection is called for. A clogged or crushed drain no longer protects your foundations against infiltration.

Replacing a French drain involves fully excavating the perimeter of your foundation. It is the ideal opportunity to apply a new waterproofing membrane and to check the condition of your foundation footings.

Free quote

Contact us for an assessment of your project.

Certifications

RBQ: 5661-9117-01
RBQ: 5597-9629-01
APCHQ Member

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