Interior Waterproofing Versus Exterior Waterproofing

Many of our customers ask us about the advantages of our indoor waterproofing process compared to the older method of waterproofing the exterior of a home.

Traditionally, and still found in some new home construction, is the exterior method of waterproofing a home. Here’s the process:

-         The ground around the affected walls is excavated down to the footings of the home.

-         The old weeping tiles, which are often clogged with mud, are removed, replaced and backfilled with gravel.

-         A membrane is affixed to the leaky foundation wall for the purpose of moving water down into the newly installed weeping tiles.

-         The excavated area is filled in.

Here are some considerations with the exterior waterproofing method:

-         In new construction, the process of waterproofing is often done to just meet the minimum standards of local building codes rather than being the most effective method.

-         In existing homes, the area several feet away from the affected wall has to be excavated, which can cause damage to the landscaping, sidewalks, driveways, decks and porches – all which are costly to replace.

-         By their nature, weeping tiles are prone to clogging. A high-pressure flush can help unclog weeping tiles, but the process can cause irreversible damage. When these tiles clog, water builds near the foundation of the home. When this water can’t drain, it causes hydrostatic pressure on the foundation walls which may result in structural damage to the home. This water may find new ways into the basement.

-         Similarly, when the excavated area is backfilled, the soil is loose, allowing for it to hold more water, creating more pressure against the foundation walls. The more water surrounding the home, the more pressure and better the chance of water intrusion and structural damage.

-         Concrete is porous and prone to cracking – even with an exterior waterproofing system in place, water can still enter the home.

Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that if there is a future problem with the exterior system, the landscaping, sidewalks, decks, etc. will again have to be replaced – and again at the expense of the homeowner.

Here is our process of interior waterproofing:

-         We create a perimeter drainage system in the floor of the affected walls.

-         Leaky water is diverted into the new drain, which is connected to the home’s sump pump system.

-         The system can regularly be flushed to ensure it is functioning as it should.

As with all important components of a home, regular maintenance of the drainage system and sump pump is critical to a lasting dry basement.

Advantages of our interior waterproofing system include:

-         The installation process can be performed any time of the year, and usually is completed in just a few days.

-         The affected basement areas can be finished with flooring and walls with confidence knowing a reliable system is in place.

-         With over 400 companies in our basement waterproofing network, our superior products and proven installation practices has been used in homes and businesses all across North America and the UK since 1990.

-         We offer a lifetime transferable warranty for peace of mind and to help with resale value.

If you want to waterproof your basement only once, we would be pleased if you considered Advanced Basement Systems for the job. Please feel free to contact us to arrange for a complimentary inspection and estimate: 1-866-277-1277