When it comes to protecting your home, the foundation is where you should start. Exterior waterproofing, while it can address problems like damp walls and basement leaks from the inside, is often more effective.
Exterior waterproofing helps to keep your home dry, healthy, and structurally strong. In this guide, you’ll learn about the most effective exterior foundation waterproofing solutions. You’ll also discover how these solutions work and what to think about when hiring an expert.
Why Exterior Waterproofing Matters?
Water intrusion in the home is one of the most common causes of structural damage, especially in areas of high rainfall, poor soil drainage, and shifting conditions. When water collects around the perimeter of your house, it creates hydrostatic pressure that can push moisture through cracks in foundation walls.
When left unaddressed, it can lead you to:
- Mold growth
- Basement flooding
- Structural stability
- Pest infestations
- Interior damage issues and air quality problems
Exterior waterproofing takes care of these problems outside your foundation wall, providing long-term solutions and reducing future repairs.
Popular Exterior Foundation Methods
- Excavation And Waterproof Membranes
This comprehensive solution involves excavating all the soil around your footings. After cleaning the foundation walls, contractors install a waterproofing membrane. This membrane is typically made of rubberized asphalt or a fluid-applied liquid elastomeric.
Once installed, the membrane creates a continuous barrier that prevents water from entering the concrete. Many systems have a protective drainage plate over the membrane that redirects water down.
- Exterior French Drain Installation
Also called perimeter drains, this system involves installing a perforated pipe near the foundation. As water collects near your home, this pipe redirects it, typically to a drainage ditch, storm sewer system, or sump pump.
French drains combined with a waterproof membrane can offer an effective one-two punch to homeowners in areas that are prone to floods or flooding.
- Sump-Pump With Exterior Drainage Line
The exterior discharge line is equally important. If you grade your sump pump system properly, it can be extended to the outside, allowing water to drain away from the house’s foundation safely.
This installation is often used in conjunction with other exterior foundation waterproofing solutions. It adds a layer of moisture resistance.
- Extensions Of Gutter And Downspouts
It’s not just about what’s under the earth. Gutters are crucial in keeping rainwater away from the foundation. Consider installing underground drainage if there is not enough space to extend your downspouts at least six feet from your house.
This easy and inexpensive solution can reduce water pooling.
Best Practices In Moisture Control
In terms of exterior waterproofing, the quality of installation is crucial. Even the most expensive materials will not work if they are installed improperly. Here are a couple of best practices that you should remember:
- You should always grade your landscape so that it slopes away from your home.
- Check and clean gutters frequently to prevent overflow.
- Use soils or gravel that encourage good drainage around your foundation.
- Maximize the effectiveness of your membrane system by combining it with drainage.
Bob Vila offers expert advice on how to protect against exterior moisture.
Hiring The Right Professional
A novice can’t do exterior waterproofing. It takes heavy equipment, knowledge of excavation, and waterproofing experts. When looking for contractors, you should consider the following:
- Experience with exterior concrete waterproofing solutions
- Licenses, insurance, positive reviews, and local licensing
- Pricing transparency and warranties
- Results that are long-lasting, proven, and dependable
Be wary if a company offers quick solutions or only recommends interior fixes without addressing outside causes.
Conclusion
The best way to protect your house against water damage is to invest in exterior waterproofing. By combining a physical barrier with drainage solutions and stopping moisture where it originates, you can ensure that your home remains dry and secure all year.
Look for a professional who offers proven exterior basement waterproofing solutions and request a thorough examination. It’s better to prevent water from entering your home than to wait until it does.
