Does My Basement’S Outside Need To Be Waterproofed?

Properly waterproofing your basement wall from the outside is crucial for preventing water damage, mold growth, and structural issues, while also creating a usable living space and protecting property value. Exterior basement waterproofing, also known as positive side waterproofing, involves applying a waterproof barrier or membrane to the exterior walls. It is essential to inspect your basement during or after heavy rain and check the exterior foundation walls for cracks or signs of deterioration.

To protect your foundation from water, install gutters and downspouts, and attach downspouts. Interior waterproofing solutions are less expensive and disruptive but are essential for preventing severe water problems. If you don’t have water problems and redirect water away from your house, you don’t need waterproofing. However, if you do have a leaky basement, waterproofing is necessary.

The biggest advantage of exterior basement waterproofing is that it prevents water from entering the basement in the first place. It is best to waterproof a basement’s exterior walls during construction, as newer construction mandates this procedure due to many state and local building regulations. Exterior basement waterproofing prevents water from entering the basement rather than managing water that has already gotten in. If the basement has leaking cracks, sealing those cracks is worthwhile.

Waterproofing the entire house may or may not be worthwhile, as certain solutions may fail over time, leading to leaks, damage, and costly repairs. If you see any water, dribbles, leaks, or feel dampness, then you need to get your basement waterproofed. Waterproofing can prevent seepage through cracks in the basement and involves excavating the soil around the foundation walls.

How to waterproof your basement from the outside?

Exterior basement waterproofing involves removing dirt around walls, applying moisture barriers, and installing a dimple board to deflect water away from the wall. This method is popular among homeowners who don’t want interior work to be performed. Olshan’s exterior basement waterproofing includes a drainage system with a footer drain in gravel, which discharges water and alleviates hydrostatic pressure.

Can you waterproof a basement only from the inside?

Waterproofing the inside of a basement is not a permanent solution, as moisture and mold can spread throughout the home. Combining interior and exterior waterproofing is the best way to ensure a solid basement. Interior waterproofing can prevent water damage, but exterior repairs address the foundation’s weaknesses, stopping water from entering the home, protecting the concrete or stone from erosion, and preventing the foundation from crumbling.

Exterior repairs prevent large gaps and cracks from growing, and work together with a crushed roundstone barrier and weeping tile system to move water away from the foundation’s sides. This prevents moisture and mold from spreading throughout the home and ensures a strong foundation.

Is basement waterproofing worth it?

Waterproofing is a crucial aspect of home security, as over 98 percent of homes with basements will experience some form of water damage. A properly waterproofed basement can be a valuable selling point for potential buyers and offers a return on investment of about 30. Waterproofing reduces the risk of mold, a toxic substance, and serious health risks. It is essential to avoid cold or damp conditions in finished basements or when converting a basement into a home office, playroom, or “man cave”.

Water damage can also cause cracks and weaken the entire structure, especially if they are more than one-fourth of an inch wide. Water can also wear away at wood and plaster, causing walls and ceilings to collapse unexpectedly.

The biggest downside is the expense, with the national average cost for waterproofing a basement between $2K and $7K, with most homeowners paying around $5k. The average cost of waterproofing is between $3. 50 and $8 per square foot, including materials and labor.

What happens if you don’t waterproof concrete?

Concrete that is too damp can lead to erosion, cracks, and deterioration of the structure. This gradual process can take time to show, but if the surface appears worn, it can indicate deterioration of the inside structure. Investing in high-quality concrete is crucial as cheap alternatives can be more costly to repair.

Waterproof concrete offers numerous benefits for large construction projects. It allows less moisture to enter, resulting in fewer cracks and less vulnerability to elements. This reduces maintenance costs, as less erosion and deterioration results in less time and money spent on repairs. It also prevents mold and mildew, reducing the risk of illness and creating a healthier environment. Additionally, waterproofed basements or sub-floors can increase property value, providing peace of mind for buyers.

Furthermore, waterproofed concrete maintains a fresh appearance, as it doesn’t deteriorate from water exposure, preventing wear and tear. Overall, investing in high-quality concrete is essential for long-term performance and longevity in construction projects.

What are the disadvantages of waterproofing?

DIY basement waterproofing can be dangerous due to the use of harsh chemicals, mold, and potential injuries. It’s essential to have proper protection and be aware of the risks associated with working in tight spaces and lifting heavy objects. Additionally, DIY basement waterproofing can be costly, especially if done by professionals with experience and training. Therefore, it’s advisable to leave the job to professionals for safer and more cost-effective solutions.

Do you need to waterproof exterior concrete walls?

Concrete blocks and cinder blocks are particularly vulnerable to water intrusion due to their larger pores and semi-permeable nature. Concrete blocks have a permeability of 3. 2 perms per inch of thickness, while a poured concrete wall has a permeability of 0. 4 to 0. 3 perms. Moisture intrudes into a block, making the pores larger, reinforcing the damage cycle. Concrete blocks also have more joints and areas to seal than poured concrete foundations or walls, as they have mortar joints on all sides.

Over time, these joint areas develop hairline cracks, and the mortar is less durable than concrete, causing leaks. To seal concrete block walls and cinder block water barriers, it is essential to use the best method for each type of material.

Do all basements need to be waterproofed?

Basement waterproofing is crucial for protecting a home’s structural integrity, resale value, and preventing mold growth, water damage, and foundation issues. A 1, 000-square-foot basement typically costs between $5, 000 and $10, 000, with interior solutions being less expensive and exterior solutions, especially in flood-prone areas, more expensive. For feedback or questions, contact the Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews. com.

Is it better to waterproof your basement from inside or outside?

Interior basement waterproofing offers several advantages over exterior waterproofing. These include a lower cost, less disruption, a shorter installation time (of only a day or two), and the avoidance of large trenches in the yard, thus ensuring the safety and dryness of the basement.

How long does exterior basement waterproofing last?

The typical lifespan of modern waterproofing solutions is approximately 10 years, which makes basement waterproofing a long-lasting option. Groundworks provides solutions with an extended lifespan and offers warranty coverage in the event of an emergency.

Should you seal basement concrete walls?

Without a waterproof basement wall, your foundation is vulnerable to moisture intrusion, leading to dampness and humidity issues. Mold, rot, and mildew can cause unsightly and unhealthy conditions, such as breathing problems, eye irritations, and skin issues. Odors from mold growth and sitting water can permeate the room and stick to furniture, clothing, and carpet, affecting the entire home.

Water seepage indicates excess moisture building up in the soil outside your basement walls, leading to hydrostatic pressure, which can cause concrete walls to bow, shear, tip, or lean. A damp basement is also a breeding ground for pests, such as fruit flies, rats, and mice, who will nest in puddles and wet corners. To prevent these issues, it is essential to install waterproof basement walls and ensure proper ventilation and drainage.

Can I waterproof my basement myself?

To protect your basement from moisture, use sealants and epoxy injections to fix cracks and gaps. Sealants prevent moisture from getting into the surface, preventing mold or mildew growth. This DIY job can be done by spraying or rolling the product on the surface and allowing it to dry. However, it’s important to remove any existing mold or mildew before applying. Standard acrylic sealant is cost-effective at $1 to $8 per square foot, but it can’t be used over painted drywall.

If your basement is fully or partially finished, consider alternative solutions. Epoxy injections are another interior waterproofing method, costing $800 to $1, 500 and can be outsourced to a professional or done by a homeowner.