Glossary

Bituthene membrane: This 1.5mm flexible, rubberized, waterproof membrane is used for exterior foundation walls and is typically used in new construction. The membrane has the ability to bridge cracks that may develop in a foundation, offering lifetime waterproof protection to foundation walls.

Black mold: Any number of molds that grow in damp or humid areas like basements, attics, kitchens and utility rooms. The scientific name for the most common fungi is Stachybotrys.

Efflorescence: A chalky white residue composed of mineral deposits. As water passes through concrete, these minerals will build up on foundation walls; this is clear evidence of moisture entering a basement.

Curtain drain: Also known as French drains, these are trenches that are lined with perforated pipes and filled with gravel in order to redirect water away from a structure or foundation to protect it from water damage.

Drainage system: This can refer to any number of systems including gutters, curtain drains and French drains that redirect water from one point to another in order to protect a home from leaks and flooding. A properly designed building will have drainage systems both inside the structure and on the exterior.

Downspout: The vertical pipes and plumbing that run down the side of a gutter system on the side of a building in order to redirect water from a roof onto the ground. Proper downspouts will have release points at least 5 feet away from the foundation of a building.

Epoxy: Any number of polymer coatings meant to strengthen or waterproof a surface. Many buildings utilize these types of coatings in basements, utility rooms and garages, both on floors and walls.

Fieldstone: This is a generic term for stone that is typically found underground in fields and in the forest. These stones are used for a number of purposes in building structures, foundations, basements, stone walls, drainage systems and other masonry projects.

Foundation: This refers to the structure beneath a building. In some climates with deep soil, the foundation lies underground and frames the space of a basement. Some foundations are constructed of concrete and only last about 25 years, while foundations build of stone masonry can last 100 years or more.

Filtration fabric: A special fabric, typically woven from plastic that is used for landscaping and curtain/French drainage systems.

French drain: Another name for curtain drainage systems that utilize trenches, gravel, perforated pipe and gravity to redirect water away from the foundation of a building or from one point of a landscape to another.

Helical piles: A system of screw piles and steel shafts designed to jack up unstable or sagging foundations in questionable soil. The piles, or piers, are driven down to load bearing strata.

Perforated pipe: A type of pipe, either stiff or flexible, that is used in drainage systems and agriculture. It allows water to enter through small holes so that it can be redirected to an intended exit point.

Sealing: A method of applying various coatings and finishes to wood, concrete, drywall and other surfaces in order to protect them from water damage, staining and mold.

Silt: A type of debris or dust formed from broken or corroded rock, gravel or concrete.

Structural damage: Any damage that is done to the structure of your home, including the foundation, frame, joints and beams.

Sump pump: A pump that runs on electricity or battery power that is used to pump water from a home or other area during flooding. Many homeowners install sump pumps in their basements to protect their foundation from water damage.

Waterproof coating: A special finish made of latex, epoxy, polyurethane or other polymer blends that is applied to wood, concrete and other surfaces of a home in order to protect it from leaks, mold and water damage.