Exterior Basement Waterproofing: 5 Solutions

Interior waterproofing solves many basement-related problems, but exterior basement waterproofing provides additional options for the homeowner. Since water usually causes problems from the outside, especially in the rainy season, it is important to consider the right type of exterior waterproofing for your home. Here are a number of solutions that will help you fight water coming inside.

1. Sealing the Foundation Walls

Waterproofing your home foundation with a coat of waterproofing material is a good way to minimize the entry of water inside the basement. Since the waterproof coating for basement foundations fades with time, make sure you regularly inspect the exterior walls, checking if the coating needs replacement. If such is required, invest in exterior wall sealing. Determine which water sealer is best for the foundation material and get a professional do the coating. You can also apply it yourself if you want to cut down on costs. Sealing the walls with waterproof material will definitely help prevent water from making its way into the basement.

2. Installing Downspouts and Gutters

The roof of your house is a very important waterproofing system as it protects the interior as well as the exterior walls. Directing water away from the home is a good exterior basement waterproofing solution. Make sure you install the downspouts and gutter correctly, leading water to an efficient external drainage system which ensures it does not get into the basement. If there is a roof drainage system already installed, check for damages and blockage. Usually, gutters get clogged with leaves, dirt and other debris. Make sure you clean the gutter regularly or install gutter covers or screens.

 3. Installing External Drainage Systems

Installing an exterior drainage system requires digging the soil next to the basement walls, together with the installation of boards and drainage pipes against the wall. This will help direct the water coming from the surface away from the walls. Although this system is quite an expensive solution, it is recommended as the best one for exterior walls that are found below ground level.

4. Correcting Ground Slopes

An alternative to exterior drainage systems is correcting the ground slopes that surround the walls of the basement. The ground should slope at least 10 degrees and at a distance of 5 feet away from the exterior basement walls. This angle will reduce the chance of having pooling water. Such water eventually seeps into the ground and enters the basement walls; so, it should be avoided at all costs.

5. Structural Repair

Cracks and other structural damage are potential problems when it comes to exterior basement waterproofing. In order to waterproof the place, it is necessary to fix cracks and other inconsistencies in the foundation walls. Before resealing the entire foundation wall or installing exterior drainage systems, make sure you repair all cracks and damages to the basement foundation. You can inject cracks with epoxy or restructures using the same foundation material as for the basement walls.