How the process typically works:

Assessment: Our experienced team first assesses the specific water intrusion issues affecting your foundation. We identify the areas where water is seeping in, taking into account the local soil conditions prevalent in Northern Michigan.

Injection Points: Based on the assessment, we strategically determine injection points around the exterior of your foundation. These points are typically spaced at regular intervals along the foundation walls where leaks are suspected or where a preventative barrier is desired.

Bentonite Slurry Preparation: We mix high-quality bentonite clay with water to create a slurry. The consistency of the slurry is carefully controlled to ensure it can be effectively injected into the soil.

Injection: Using specialized pumping equipment, we inject the bentonite slurry into the ground at the pre-determined points. The injection is done at a controlled pressure to ensure the bentonite penetrates the soil effectively and reaches potential pathways for water intrusion. In many cases, this "no-dig" method avoids the need for extensive excavation, preserving your landscaping.

Expansion and Sealing: Once injected, the bentonite clay begins to absorb moisture from the surrounding soil. As it hydrates, it can expand many times its original volume. This expansion creates a dense, impermeable barrier around your foundation. The swelling clay fills cracks, voids, and porous areas in the soil, effectively blocking the movement of water towards your basement walls. This process can take some time, with the bentonite continuing to expand and solidify over several weeks. 

Formation of a Watertight Membrane: Over time, the bentonite clay forms a continuous, flexible, and self-sealing membrane against your foundation. This natural barrier prevents groundwater from reaching your basement walls, thus resolving or significantly reducing water leaks and moisture issues.

Why We Do This:

Bentonite is a preferred material for waterproofing in many regions, including parts of Northern Michigan, due to its natural properties and long-term effectiveness. It's also environmentally friendly and doesn't degrade over time like some synthetic materials.  By creating a natural seal, bentonite injections offer a reliable solution to protect your home's foundation from water damage common in our varied Northern Michigan climate.