How To Build A Waterproof Basement?

How do you build a watertight basement?

DO apply a masonry waterproofing product to bare interior basement walls. If your foil test showed that water is soaking through your basement walls and leaving them wet, seal the interior of the walls with a high-quality waterproof paint, such as DRYLOK White Extreme Waterproofer (available from Home Depot).

What is average cost to waterproof a basement?

Average Cost to Waterproof a Basement



According to the online estimates and calculators, waterproofing a basement can cost on average anywhere between $1,920 and $6,493. Per square foot, the average cost is $3 to $10.

What is the best basement waterproofing method?

Waterproofing a foundation from the outside typically involves using polymers and membranes to coat the exterior of the walls, installing a trench drain underground, or a combination of both methods. When done properly, exterior drainage is generally considered to be the most effective way to waterproof a basement.

Is it better to waterproof basement from inside or outside?

The drain tiles will carry water away from the foundation before it has a chance to enter the basement. Exterior waterproofing is also more expensive than interior waterproofing, because it requires more work and more material, but it efficiently stops water from getting close to the foundation of your home.

How do I stop water from coming in my basement?

How to prevent water in the basement

1. Improve outside drainage.
2. Install or replace sump pump.
3. Add interior drainage.
4. Protect against plumbing leaks.
5. Install new windows and window well covers.
6. Repair foundation cracks.
7. Check roof for damage.

How do I stop water from coming into my basement floor?

The most effective way to keep water out of your basement is to install an interior drainage system that minimizes hydrostatic pressure. By installing drain tile along the joint where the floor meets the wall, where most water leakage occurs, you can capture water before it makes its way onto the basement floor.

Does insurance cover basement waterproofing?

It’s there for you in a lot of ways, but sometimes absent when you need it most. External water sources are almost never covered by average home insurance. And even flood insurance doesn’t cover every basement leak. If insurance classifies your water intrusion as groundwater, you can expect them not to cover it.

Is waterproofing a basement worth it?

Basement waterproofing is a valuable home repair. As with many home repairs, your basement waterproofing ROI varies greatly by region, size of home and the extent of the waterproofing. However, nearly all experts agree that basement waterproofing is a valuable home repair that is well worth the expense.

Can I waterproof my basement from the inside?

Tape a 1-foot-square piece of aluminum foil to the inside of your basement walls, and leave it in place for 24 hours. You can waterproof just your interior walls, which may solve the problem. Or you can waterproof your exterior walls, which is a better bet — but more costly.

Can You Use Flex Seal to waterproof a basement?

Flex Shot and Flex Seal Liquid are great options for attacking a basement wall leak. Pour the Flex Seal Liquid into any larger cracks, then you can use a roller or brush to cover larger areas. Be sure to apply several coats and cover the area as much as you can. For best results, allow 24 hours for each coat to dry.

Do basement sealers work?

If you have fine cracks that seep slowly (or just look damp), your basement might be a good candidate for an interior sealant. Most interior masonry sealants work only on unpainted concrete walls—if your walls are painted, the sealant can’t form good contact and results are likely to be poor.

How long does Basement Waterproofing last?

Your Guide to Basement Waterproofing



If you’ve had an interior and exterior primer and paint sealant applied that has experienced minimal stress from water, you’ll receive roughly 10 years of use — a common warranty time among basement waterproofing products.

Will a French drain prevent water in basement?

In fact, it keeps the basement dry by preventing the water from developing the pressure it takes to enter the basement in the first place. A French drain, often called “drain tile,” installed inside or outside the foundation, will keep most basements dry and never requires maintenance or replacement.

How do you waterproof a concrete block wall?

How to Waterproof a Cinderblock Wall

1. Introduction. Ensure That Wall Is Clean and Dry. Scrape off any peeling paint and sweep down walls to remove dirt or debris.
2. Patch Holes. Patch any holes in the wall with expanding hydraulic cement. Allow cement to dry for 24 hours.
3. Add Finish Coats. Cover the wall with a second thick coat and, if needed, a third coat.