Waterproofing Repair Tips & News

Repairs of Basement Waterproofing: Common Problems and Solutions

Eugene Kushmarak

Please meet Eugene, one of our basement flood experts. He started his career from the bottom, digging trenches, working his way up to contractor and supervisor. Learn More About Eugene Kushmarak

A dry and healthy basement is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your home and creating a comfortable living space. However, water infiltration can pose a significant threat, leading to structural damage, mold growth, and a host of other issues. In this blog, we’ll delve into the common problems homeowners face and the solutions that savvy individuals employ when waterproofing their basements.

What We Repair When Waterproof a Basement

When undertaking basement waterproofing, the primary objective is to tackle and prevent water infiltration issues, safeguarding the structural integrity of the building while establishing a dry, usable space. However, basement waterproofing extends beyond these fundamental goals. Here, we explore common issues that are typically repaired or mitigated during basement waterproofing:

1. Crack Repair

Sealing cracks in the basement walls and floor is crucial for preventing water entry. Epoxy or polyurethane injections are often used to fill and seal cracks, preventing water from seeping through.

Problem: Cracks in the basement walls and floor can allow water to infiltrate, posing a risk to the structural integrity of the building.
Solution: Epoxy or polyurethane injections are commonly employed to fill and seal cracks effectively. This prevents water from seeping through, maintaining a watertight barrier.

2. Water penetration Repair: Interior Waterproofing

This method involves installing an interior drainage system, such as a French drain or a sump pump, to manage water that penetrates the basement. These systems collect and redirect water away from the foundation to a safe drainage point.

Problem: Water penetration into the basement necessitates an efficient drainage system to manage and redirect the water away from the foundation.
Solution: Interior waterproofing involves installing systems such as French drains or sump pumps. These systems collect water within the basement and redirect it away from the foundation to a designated drainage point.

3. Exterior Of the Foundation Repair: Exterior Waterproofing

Repairing and waterproofing the exterior of the foundation can involve excavating the soil around the foundation, applying a waterproofing membrane, and installing drainage systems like weeping tiles to direct water away from the foundation.

Problem: The exterior foundation can be vulnerable to water penetration, potentially causing damage to the structure.
Solution: This process includes excavating the soil around the foundation, applying a waterproofing membrane, and installing drainage systems like weeping tiles. These measures protect the exterior, preventing water from reaching the foundation.

4. Water Seepage Repair

Applying waterproof sealants to the interior or exterior surfaces of the basement walls and floor helps create a barrier against water penetration. These sealants may be applied as coatings or sprays.

Problem: Basement surfaces are susceptible to water seepage, necessitating additional protection.
Solution: Applying waterproof sealants to interior or exterior surfaces creates a protective barrier. These sealants, whether in the form of coatings or sprays, effectively repel water, ensuring a waterproofed environment.

5. Window Well Repair or Installation

Windows in basement wells are vulnerable points for water entry. Installing or repairing window wells and ensuring proper drainage around them can help prevent water infiltration.

Problem: Basement windows and wells are vulnerable points for water entry.
Solution: Installing or repairing window wells and ensuring proper drainage around them is crucial. This helps prevent water infiltration through basement windows.

6. Pressure Relief Systems Repair or Installation

Addressing hydrostatic pressure issues involves relieving the pressure exerted by water in the soil around the foundation. This may involve installing pressure relief systems or improving drainage.

Problem: Hydrostatic pressure from water in the soil can exert force on the foundation.
Solution: Addressing this involves installing pressure relief systems or improving drainage to alleviate the pressure. This safeguards the foundation against potential damage.

7. Crawl Space Repair

If your home has a crawl space, encapsulating it by installing a vapor barrier and addressing any drainage issues can contribute to overall basement waterproofing.

Problem: Crawl spaces can be prone to moisture intrusion.
Solution: Encapsulating the crawl space by installing a vapor barrier and addressing drainage issues contributes to overall basement waterproofing, maintaining a dry and healthy environment.

8. Basement Leak Repair

Basement leaks can be a persistent issue, allowing water to seep into your home and potentially cause damage to your property and belongings.

Problem: Basements, being below ground level, are susceptible to leaks and water infiltration, posing a threat to the structural integrity and comfort of your home.
Solution: Basement leak repair services offer targeted solutions to address water entry points and seal potential leaks. From identifying and repairing cracks in walls to implementing advanced waterproofing techniques, an expert team ensures a dry basement.

Exterior Waterproofing

Exterior waterproofing is a process of protecting exterior surfaces from water damage. It can be used on roofs, walls, windows/doors, and any other surface that gets wet during rain or snowfall.

$90-$280 Per linear feet, Depending on depth and access

Interior Waterproofing

Seal and protect the interior surfaces of your home from water damage. It’s done by using sealants, coatings, or membranes that are formulated to protect against moisture and other chemicals.

$69-$190 Per linear feet.

French Drains

French drains are often used as part of stormwater management systems, which help reduce flooding problems around homes and businesses. It channels water away from your home’s foundation and down to the ground.

$2,500 – $5,000, depending on the size, materials, labor, and project specifics.

Foundation Repair

It involves fixing cracks in your concrete or masonry foundation, repairing damages caused by water damage, installing new drainage systems, and more.

$1500-$3300 Depending on depth & width of foundation crack.

Basement Lowering

Several panels and slabs that are lowered into the ground, making room for additional flooring, storage areas, or even an extra bedroom or bathroom.

$30,000 – $60,000, depending on project complexity and specific requirements

Sump Pump Installation

It helps to protect your home’s basement from flooding, and it keeps your pool clean and free of debris. Sump pump removes excess water from your basement or crawlspace, and then sends it to the municipal sewer system.

$550-$3650 Depending If a sump pit is needed, or just a pump replacement

Weeping Tiles Installation

Weeping tiles are a great way to push water away from your home so that the water can’t get inside and cause damage. The tiles work by absorbing moisture and then releasing it slowly, which helps to reduce flooding in surrounding areas.

$3,000 – $7,000 for a standard residential project.

Backflow Prevention

Backflow prevention is a critical safety measure that should be taken when installing any type of water system. Backflow protection devices (BPDs) prevent sewage, wastewater, and other fluids from entering your home or business through your plumbing systems.

$1500-$3800 Depending if a BACKWATER-VALVE is interior or exterior, and also depth of pipe

Window Well Installation

Window wells can prevent moisture damage to basement windows that are at or below grade. By installing a window well, homeowners can protect their windows from water and dirt accumulation while keeping the interior of the home dry.

$1500-$3900 Depending on size and depth of window well