The 3 Major Approaches to Basement Waterproofing

An interior drainage system like our TrenchDrain will capture surface water and keep your basement dry.

One of the most problematic areas in a home is the basement. Basements are prone to water leaks and moisture buildup, which can result in the dreaded basement flooding that all homeowners wish to avoid. A leaky, damp, or wet basement can also lead to more severe problems like an unstable foundation, mold, or insect infestation.

Needless to say, it's better to avoid these issues before they ever have a chance to develop. One of the most effective means of preventing water damage to your basement is through basement waterproofing. Professional basement waterproofing contractors determine the cause of the leak, clean the area, and waterproof it to ensure that it stays dry at all times.

When it comes to basements, there is no single fix-all solution – the basement waterproofing method needs to depend on the type and severity of the damage. The source of the water damage, whether external or internal, also plays a major role in determining the type of waterproofing method to use.

There are three basic basement waterproofing methods:

1. Interior sealants. Although interior sealants are not often used as a basement waterproofing tool, they can be used as a temporary material for keeping your basement dry. This tool is designed to ensure that the atmospheric humidity level in the basement stays low. Using interior sealants to waterproof your basement prevents moisture from being absorbed by the basement walls and floors, and can also help prevent moisture from spilling to other parts of the house.
2. Interior water drainage. The most effective basement waterproofing method is called interior water drainage. A drainage system can help avoid water buildup in your basement, moving the water from the footers of the house foundation and out below the basement floor. Interior drainage systems can be installed in just a day or two, and are much more affordable than outside basement waterproofing systems.
3. Exterior basement waterproofing. Exterior basement waterproofing is a costly and extensive method used by contractors to waterproof basements, usually at the time of construction. This method is designed to prevent water from causing any major structural damage to your house or building, using polymers and membranes to coat the exterior basement walls. Polymers are known to be an efficient waterproofing material that can stand the test of time. Unfortunately, using this method on an existing home can be disruptive and may even clog exterior drains, limiting its effectiveness.

How to choose a basement waterproofing method for your home

There are many things you need to consider when it comes to basement waterproofing. Cost is a major factor for many homeowners, since this process comes with a price tag. Some people opt for interior sealant as a temporary solution until they have the budget for a better basement waterproofing solution.

However, the price is not the only thing you need to consider when deciding on which basement waterproofing method to use – you also need to consider the quality and durability of your chosen method. Professional basement waterproofing companies advise consumers to choose a permanent solution, since it will be much more cost-effective in the long run. Here at Basement Systems, Inc., we recommend installing an interior drainage system in combination with sump pumps and a basement dehumidifier for long-term waterproofing.

Before doing anything else, make sure to consult with a certified basement waterproofing company and have your basement thoroughly assessed. It also doesn't hurt to research basement waterproofing in order to make an informed decision, so don't hesitate to check out the rest of our site!