A contractor discovers during excavation that groundwater is present at the footing level. According to Michigan Building Code requirements, what is the most appropriate action to ensure proper foundation drainage?
Correct Answer
C) Install perimeter drain tile and waterproofing system
Michigan Building Code requires both perimeter drain tile and waterproofing when groundwater is present to ensure proper foundation drainage and prevent water infiltration.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
When groundwater is present at footing level, Michigan Building Code requires a comprehensive drainage solution: perimeter drain tile (also called a French drain or footing drain) installed around the foundation perimeter to collect and divert water, combined with a waterproofing system applied to the foundation walls. Together these address both lateral water pressure and subsurface water accumulation, preventing infiltration and hydrostatic pressure buildup.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Apply waterproof membrane to foundation walls
Waterproof membrane alone addresses water that reaches the foundation wall surface but does not address the source — groundwater accumulating around and under the footing. Without drain tile to divert water away, hydrostatic pressure continues to build and can eventually overwhelm even a good waterproofing membrane.
Option B: Install a sump pump only
A sump pump alone collects water that has already entered the basement. It is a reactive measure, not a preventive one. Without perimeter drain tile to collect and channel groundwater to the sump, water accumulates uncontrolled around the footing and foundation walls. Code requires a drainage system, not just a pump.
Option D: Raise the foundation above groundwater level
Raising the foundation above the groundwater level might seem logical but is generally impractical mid-excavation, could violate site grading requirements, and is not the code-prescribed remedy for groundwater at footing level. The code solution is a proper drainage system, not redesigning foundation elevation.
Memory Technique
Think of it as 'Drain + Seal.' Drain tile moves the water away (perimeter), and waterproofing seals the wall against what remains. Neither works fully without the other when groundwater is present. Picture a moat (drain tile) + castle walls (waterproofing) working together.
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