Basement Waterproofing: Interior vs. Exterior - Which Method is Right for You?

 

A wet basement can lead to various problems, including mold and mildew growth, structural damage, and decreased property value. Basement waterproofing is essential to safeguard your home, but with various methods available, how do you choose the right one? Let's explore the two primary approaches: interior and exterior waterproofing.

Understanding the Basics

• Exterior Waterproofing: This method prevents water from ever entering your basement. It's a preventative approach, creating a barrier between the foundation and the surrounding soil.
• Interior Waterproofing: This method manages water that does enter the basement. It focuses on channeling and removing water to prevent damage.

Exterior Waterproofing: Like a Moat Around Your Home

Exterior foundation waterproofing involves digging down to the foundation footer to install or replace drainage pipes, commonly known as a French drain system. Sometimes, a waterproof membrane is applied to the outside of the foundation wall to prevent water infiltration.

Exterior foundation waterproofing is more expensive than other methods due to the excavation. Another downside is the disruption to landscaping, porches and driveways. French drains can also be crushed during the backfill process and often clog with silt and plant roots, even when installed correctly.

 

Advantages:

• Prevents Water Entry: The most significant advantage is stopping water at the source.
• Structural Protection: Protects the foundation from water damage and potential cracking.
• Mold Prevention: Keeps the basement dry, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
• Long-lasting: Exterior systems are designed for long-term protection.
• Enhanced Property Value: Homes with exterior waterproofing are often more attractive to buyers.

Disadvantages:

• High Cost: Excavation and extensive labor make it more expensive.
• Landscaping Disruption: Requires digging up your yard and potentially damaging landscaping, driveways, and walkways.
• Difficult Repairs: Fixing issues can be costly and involve re-excavation.
• Installation Space: May not be feasible if your home has limited space between properties.

Interior Waterproofing: Managing Water from the Inside

A system designed around interior drainage is the least disruptive foundation waterproofing method. An interior waterproofing system effectively addresses the forces of hydrostatic pressure, which is the pressure of groundwater forcing its way through the basement walls.

The interior perimeter of the concrete floor is jackhammered, and drainage piping is installed, routing water that enters the basement to a sump pump system that actively removes the water. A backup battery-operated sump pump is often recommended to prevent basement flooding during a power outage.

Frontiers WaterGuard® drainage system is a clog-free interior waterproofing system that captures groundwater before it gets to the basement floor and routes it to a sump pump

 

Advantages:

• Lower Cost: Generally less expensive than exterior methods.
• Less Disruptive: No excavation is required, minimizing disruption to your yard.
• Faster Installation: Typically takes a day or two to install.
• Easier Repairs: Interior systems are more accessible for maintenance and repairs.
• Can be installed year-round: Exterior waterproofing can be delayed by bad weather, but interior waterproofing can be done any time.

Disadvantages:

• Reactive Approach: Deals with water after it has entered.
• Requires a Sump Pump: Most systems rely on a sump pump, which requires maintenance and electricity.
• Doesn't prevent water from touching the foundation: Water can still seep through the walls, even with interior systems.
• May require moving items: You'll need to move furniture and stored items away from the walls.

Comparison Chart

 

Which Method is Right for You?

The best choice depends on your specific situation:

• New Construction: Exterior waterproofing is often recommended to prevent problems from the start.
• Finished Basements: Exterior waterproofing offers the best protection for living spaces.
• Existing Leaks: Both methods can be effective, but exterior waterproofing addresses the root cause.
• Budget: Interior waterproofing is generally more affordable.
• Severity of the Problem: Exterior waterproofing may be necessary for severe water problems.