How Much Does Foundation Waterproofing Cost?

If your socks get soaked when you enter your basement or you've noticed water pooling around the base of your home, you may need foundation waterproofing, which can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 or more (CAD 4,277 to CAD 21,387).

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Left untreated, a damaged foundation can lead to a host of issues, including mold and mildew growth, structural damage and poor indoor air quality. Fortunately, foundation waterproofing is a safe, effective solution.

What Is Foundation Waterproofing?

Foundation waterproofing is a comprehensive system of membranes such as asphalt or liquid rubber, drainage pipes and sump pumps designed to completely stop groundwater from entering your home. A sump pump is a device installed in a basement or crawl space that pumps out groundwater and prevents flooding.

While waterproofing manages major water intrusion, foundation sealing is a simple surface-level application of waterproof paint coatings that help prevent minor dampness or humidity. Foundation repair involves fixing physical issues that affect your home's structure. Some examples include sealing cracks, anchoring an unstable foundation with steel piers and replacing damaged exterior walls.

Do I Need to Waterproof My Foundation?

Foundation waterproofing helps prevent moisture issues that can damage your home. Here are the key problems it stops:

• Structural damage: Blocks water from weakening concrete, eroding footings and expanding foundation walls

• Cracks: Stops pressurized cracks when moisture causes the foundation to shift and expand

• Mold and mildew: Eliminates damp environments where mold and mildew thrive

• Rot and pest infestations. Protects wood framing from rot and helps keep wood-loving pests at bay

• Poor air quality: Prevents musty odors from entering your home and circulating through the air

What Are the Signs a Foundation Needs Waterproofing?

Some common signs you need foundation or basement waterproofing include visible water pooling in your basement or crawl space and musty, moldy odors. You may also notice cracks in the foundation and peeling wall paint, and your home's drywall may appear warped or damaged. If your exterior foundation is cracked or leaking, there might be visible water pools around the base of the home and cracks along brick and mortar joints.

What Are the Main Types of Foundation Waterproofing?

Exterior and interior waterproofing are the two main types of foundation solutions.

Exterior Foundation Waterproofing (Waterproof Membranes)

Exterior foundation waterproofing prevents water from entering your home. The exterior waterproofing process involves applying waterproof membranes like asphalt sheets or spray-on rubber to the outside basement walls. The waterproofing membranes are usually paired with exterior drainage pipes to prevent water from making its way inside.

Interior Foundation or Basement Wall Waterproofing

Interior waterproofing (crawl space and basement waterproofing systems) uses interior drainage systems installed in crawl spaces and beneath basement flooring. Interior waterproofing uses existing home drainage systems like hidden basement drains and sump pumps to prevent leaks and protect the foundation.

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Which Waterproof Foundation Method Is Best for My Home?

If you're building a brand-new home, exterior waterproofing is the most commonly recommended method. This method involves applying heavy-duty waterproof coatings on foundation walls and exterior drainage pipes in areas where soil is easy to dig up (or already dug up).

If you need foundation waterproofing on an existing home, an interior drainage system may be your best option. While your exact system can vary depending on your home's design, interior foundation waterproofing systems generally hook up to hidden floor drains and utilize sump pumps to push out water.

If you live in a dry climate, basic waterproofing techniques like sealant application (coating surfaces with liquid rubber or asphalt) are generally enough to keep your foundation safe and dry. If you live in a rainy climate with clay soil, your foundation may require durable exterior foundation waterproofing solutions such as thick asphalt or heavy clay barriers paired with perimeter drains that help drain excess water and relieve pressure.

How Much Does Foundation Waterproofing Typically Cost?

On average, foundation waterproofing costs $3,000 to $8,000 (CAD 4,277 to CAD 11,405) for interior work and $8,000 to $15,000 (CAD 11,405 to CAD 21,387) or more for exterior systems. Factors that can influence final costs include the overall size of your basement or exterior underground space, the extent of the water damage or foundation leak and your chosen foundation method. For example, a full perimeter system (an underground sub-floor designed to catch groundwater) would generally cost more than targeted crack repairs due to the scope of the work.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.