Question 1

Why do so many Northeast Ohio and Cuyahoga County basements leak?

Accepted Answer

Cuyahoga County sits on heavy, impermeable glacial clay soil. During heavy spring rainstorms or lake-effect snow thaws, clay soil absorbs immense amounts of water and expands. This generates severe hydrostatic pressure against concrete and masonry foundation walls, forcing water through hairline cracks, mortar joints, and the cove joint where the floor meets the wall.

Question 2

What is the difference between interior and exterior basement waterproofing?

Accepted Answer

Interior waterproofing relieves hydrostatic pressure under the basement floor slab by installing perimeter drainage tile and directing water safely away. Exterior waterproofing involves excavating the foundation perimeter down to the footing, cleaning and repairing the wall, applying a heavy damp-proofing barrier, and installing new exterior gravel and tile to prevent water from ever reaching the masonry.

Question 3

How does freeze and thaw damage concrete driveways and walkways in Cleveland?

Accepted Answer

Northeast Ohio experiences rapid temperature shifts around the 32°F freezing mark. Water enters concrete micro-pores, expands as ice by approximately 9%, and breaks the concrete paste from within. Proper base compaction, gravel sub-base drainage, correct mix design, and saw-cut expansion joints are essential to prevent severe spalling and cracking.

Question 4

What are the common warning signs of a failing main sewer lateral?

Accepted Answer

Warning signs include gurgling toilets, slow draining sinks across the house, water or sewage backing up through the lowest basement floor drain during rainstorms, or foul sewer odors in the basement or yard. Tree root intrusion and collapsed clay tile are frequent culprits in older Cuyahoga County neighborhoods.

Question 5

What is an outside sewer cleanout and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

An outside cleanout is a ground-level access riser connected directly to your main sewer lateral outside the foundation. It allows sewer equipment, cameras, and snaking tools to access and clear blockages directly from the exterior without bringing heavy machinery or sewage mess through your living areas.

Question 6

Who does the work when I hire Imperial Waterproofing Inc.?

Accepted Answer

Ray, the owner, answers your phone call and supervises the project on site with our small, experienced crew of 5 specialists. We do not dispatch outside sales reps or subcontract your work out to third parties.

Question 7

What payment methods are accepted?

Accepted Answer

Imperial Waterproofing Inc. accepts cash, credit cards, and checks.

Question 8

Are you available for after-hours water or sewer emergencies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for active water leaks, severe storm flooding, and emergency sewer backups across all Cuyahoga County municipalities.

Waterproofing & Drainage

Concrete & Masonry

Sewer & Underground Lines

Cuyahoga County Cities Served

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