MORE LOCATIONSIf you live in New Hampshire, you’re no stranger to dealing with a lot of rain and moisture. With the state receiving over 48 inches of rain annually, homeowners often face issues, particularly around the bulkhead entrance to the basement. This area is especially vulnerable to water intrusion, leading to potential water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. To help you protect your belongings and property, we have outlined a step-by-step guide to bulkhead waterproofing.
What are Bulkheads?
- Bulkheads are large metal doors installed at the entrance of a cellar or basement. They are typically positioned at a horizontal angle and mounted to the ground. These doors lead to concrete steps that descend into the cellar.
When bulkheads fail to function correctly, they can cause significant problems by allowing water to seep through, which leads to the growth of mildew and mold and potentially floods the basement. It’s essential to regularly repair and maintain your bulkhead doors to protect your possessions and ensure that your basement remains dry.
Steps to Bulkhead Waterproofing
- Follow these steps to waterproof your bulkhead and ensure your basement remains dry and mold-free around the year.
Identify the Source of the Leak
- Determine the exact location of the leak, which could be caused by rusted doors, cracks in the concrete foundation around the bulkhead, or improperly sealed joints.
Carefully examine the bulkhead and its surroundings, including the door for holes, joints for leaks, and the concrete foundation for cracks where the bulkhead connects.
Seal All the Cracks
- After you have successfully identified the leaks, the next step is to seal all visible cracks in the concrete frame and stairs where the bulkhead doors are mounted. Use a concrete sealant and position high-power fans to ensure the sealant dries properly and penetrates the cracks.
For optimal results, apply the sealant on dry days with no rain in the forecast to ensure quicker drying.
Use a Waterproof Sealant
- Applying a waterproof sealant to these cracks is crucial, as it helps strengthen the bond between the concrete and metal present around the edges of the bulkhead door from both the inside and outside. Various waterproof sealants are available on the market, allowing you to choose the best one based on your needs and requirements.
A popular option is a rubber seal, known for its strong and durable material. Rubber seals come in different lengths to fit the size of the crack and effectively prevent water and other unwanted elements from entering your home. By doing so, they protect your property and possessions from potential damage caused by leaks. Ensure thorough coverage both inside and outside. It’s best to wait about 24 hours for the sealant to dry completely.
Replace Bulkhead If Necessary
- Finally, if the bulkhead doors are rotting or rusting, replacing them is essential to maintain a dry basement. When replacing the doors, place a rubber seal between the bulkhead door and the concrete, then bond them together with sealant. This step will help ensure your new bulkhead door remains secure.
Conclusion
- Waterproofing your bulkhead doors is essential to protecting your home from water intrusion and mold growth. By taking the time to identify and address potential leaks, seal cracks, and maintain your bulkhead doors, you can significantly reduce the chances of basement flooding and associated damages.
With the right approach and tools, you can keep your basement dry and your New Hampshire home in excellent condition for years.
Don’t let a leaky bulkhead door compromise your home’s safety. Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring your bulkhead door is fully protected and secure. Our seasoned professionals at Crack X will waterproof your bulkhead. Call us at (877) 727-2259. We are a civil structures repair company operating in Maine and New Hampshire