Basement Waterproofing FAQ

Basement waterproofing uses various materials and techniques to keep water out of a house or building’s basement. We typically waterproof spaces below ground level by:

• Applying sealants or waterproof paint
• Installing drains or sump pumps
• Using foundation crack injections

Your basement is susceptible to water penetrating the walls and damaging the space, including mold and mildew growth that puts your health at risk. Basement waterproofing dramatically reduces the chance of water damage and unwanted growth by sealing out moisture. Waterproofing also helps prevent cracks in your foundation, increases your home’s value, and reduces energy costs.

The most common signs of a basement leak include:

• A musty odor in your basement
• Mold or mildew growth
• Water stains on the wall
• Flaking paint on walls

There are many possible causes of a basement leak. A few of the most common culprits for water penetrating your underground space include:

• Heavy and persistent rain can saturate your soil and create hydrostatic pressure. This water pressure can push moisture through your basement floor and walls.
• Looser soil around your foundation will absorb more water. As the water expands, the pressure pushes against your foundation and causes basement leaks.
• If you have a window well that wasn’t correctly installed, or the drain gets clogged, it can fill with water. During rainstorms, that water can seep into your basement.

While the cost savings might seem appealing by performing your own basement waterproofing, proper application of waterproofing products is critical to its efficacy. Our professionals use safe and proven techniques to ensure waterproofing is correctly applied.

The length of time basement proofing will last can vary. Basement waterproofing longevity depends on our methods to seal your underground space. Crack injections and waterproofing primers are not permanent fixes for leaks. Most waterproofing products carry a warranty of ten years, and they can last even longer when correctly applied by professionals.

Yes. You can use a sealant to seal a basement from the inside, but the moisture coming in through the walls and floors will eventually break the sealant material. It’s best to repair the problem by installing a draining installation system. We will also install “weep-holes” to release trapped water.

While every basement is unique and requires an approach specific to the type and severity of water leaks, interior water drainage is the most effective method to waterproof your basement. A drainage system helps you avoid water buildup by moving water away from your house’s footer and out from below your basement floor. Our team will assess your basement’s condition and the best waterproofing strategy.

Basement leaks can be caused by numerous factors. The most common culprits of basement leaks include:

• Poor Drainage – If you have clogs or improper drainage in your gutters and downspouts, your system cannot adequately divert water away from your home.
• Soil Grade – If the soil grade around your foundation is sloped toward your house, water is not correctly diverted away from exterior walls.
• Cracks in the Basement – If cracks are present in your basement, water quickly gets through.

The typical cost to waterproof basements depends on the extent of leaks and risk factors. Simple tasks are often less expensive, while more complex cases require additional steps to ensure your basement is sealed correctly. Basement sealing costs and other waterproofing methods typically run between $3 and $9 per square foot of your space to cover labor and materials. Once we evaluate the space, we will provide an accurate cost to waterproof your basement.

Everdry Waterproofing’s patented basement waterproofing techniques aren’t always one quick fix. We offer a variety of components that work together to waterproof your basement. We can even waterproof slabs and crawl spaces. Our interior waterproofing includes installing a proper drainage system, filling any cracks and holes, dehumidifying, and other effective methods. Our exterior waterproofing includes hand digging around the outside of the home’s foundation, wire-brushing cracks, repairing them and sealing the walls, installing drain tile encased in stone, and re-grading the earth over the stone and tile.