Choosing between interior and exterior basement waterproofing systems is a common dilemma for homeowners. While both waterproofing solutions are designed to protect homes from water intrusion, each has a distinct functionality, purpose, and installation technique. This blog explores all you need to know about interior and exterior basement waterproofing systems to help you make an informed decision.
What is Interior Basement Waterproofing?
Interior basement waterproofing is a waterproofing system installed inside the basement to prevent water damage. This system often involves sealing cracks and floors and installing drainage systems, sump pumps, and dehumidifiers. It is designed to channel water that enters the basement away from your property through an efficient drainage system. By efficiently channeling moisture in your basement, it prevents flooding and moisture damage.
How Does Interior Basement Waterproofing Work?
An interior basement waterproofing system works by controlling water entering the basement and preventing water damage. It involves a combination of various waterproofing solutions, such as installing a vapor barrier, drainage, sump pump, and dehumidifier, and applying sealants. Here is how each element works:
- Sealants and vapor barriers: Sealants and vapor barriers prevent water from entering the basement through cracks.
- Sump pump: A sump pump collects and removes water that enters the basement.
- Drainage system: An interior drainage system captures water that seeps into the walls or cove joint and directs it toward a sump pit.
- Dehumidifier: This keeps the basement drier by lowering humidity levels, preventing mold growth and condensation from creating problems.
Pros & Cons of Interior Basement Waterproofing
Here are some of the common pros and cons of interior basement waterproofing:
Pros
- Cost-effective: This system is cost-effective due to its less extensive installation procedures.
- Minimal disruption: Waterproofing the basement from the inside is minimally invasive and does not affect the surrounding landscape.
- Feasibility: It is feasible for any type of home, especially for homes that are closer to neighboring properties.
- Accessible for maintenance: An interior waterproofing system is easily accessible for maintenance. Any problem arising in the sump pump, and drainage system can be addressed immediately.
- Suitable for minor leaks: Minor leaks can be addressed by simply applying sealants without the need for major repairs.
- Quick installation: Since interior waterproofing installation does not involve elaborate excavation, it is faster and typically completed within 1 to 3 days.
- Effective water management: An interior waterproofing system is an excellent way to manage water entering the basement. It directs the water away from the basement before it can cause damage.
Cons
- Does not address exterior water issues: Interior waterproofing is focused on managing water that has entered the structure and does not address exterior drainage problems.
Best Scenarios For Interior Basement Waterproofing
Here are some of the best situations for interior basement waterproofing:
- Limited exterior access: This is the ideal solution for homes with limited exterior access where excavation is not possible.
- Minor water leaks: It is a cost-efficient waterproofing method to fix minor water leaks and cracks.
- Budget constraints: Interior basement waterproofing is a budget-friendly option for protecting your home from water damage.
- Less disruptive installation process: If you are looking for a waterproofing system that is quick to install and does not cause major disruptions, interior waterproofing is your ideal choice.
- Established landscaping: If your property has well-established landscaping and you do not want to disturb it, interior waterproofing is a better option.
- Year-round protection: Interior basement waterproofing helps keep the basement dry all year long and prevents the risk of water damage.
Interior Basement Waterproofing Methods
Interior basement waterproofing commonly includes a combination of the following methods:
- Drain system and sump pump: A sump pump and drainage system are essential parts of interior basement waterproofing. A drain tile system collects water that enters the basement. The water is directed to the sump pump, which pumps it out of the basement. For maximum efficiency, a sump pump is installed at the lowest point in the basement.
- Seal cracks: Sealants like polyurethane polymer and epoxy injection are used to seal cracks. They seal the cracks securely and prevent future water leaks.
What is Exterior Basement Waterproofing?
An exterior basement waterproofing system is designed to protect your basement from water penetration. This type of waterproofing system addresses the root cause of basement water issues by stopping water at its source. It involves excavating around the foundation and installing waterproofing barriers around the exterior basement walls. This is a highly effective method of protecting the structural integrity of your foundation.
How Does Exterior Basement Waterproofing Work?
An exterior basement waterproofing system acts as a barrier between the basement and exterior moisture, preventing water from reaching the interior of your basement. It requires excavating the landscape around the basement, applying a waterproof membrane, and installing external drainage. Here is how each system works:
- Waterproof membrane: This layer offers protection from moisture around the foundation walls.
- Drainage system: The drainage system helps water divert away from the foundation.
Pros & Cons of Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Here are some of the common pros and cons of exterior basement waterproofing:
Pros
- Effective for new construction: Installing the exterior basement waterproofing system is easier when the structure is under construction. It offers protection from water intrusion from the start and saves you from the hassle of dealing with water damage mitigation later.
- Structural protection: This system protects the structure by preventing water from penetrating the foundation.
- Mold and mildew prevention: Exterior waterproofing keeps the basement dry and lowers the risks of mold and mildew formation.
- Increases property value: Installing an exterior waterproofing system makes your home resilient against water infiltration, contributing to increased property value.
Cons
- Expensive: The installation process requires more labor and material, which leads to higher installation costs.
- Disruptive: Exterior basement waterproofing involves extensive excavation around the foundation to reach the exterior basement walls. This may heavily disrupt the surrounding landscape, leading to landscape restoration work.
- Less feasible on smaller properties: This waterproofing system may not be feasible in all conditions, depending on the landscaping and neighboring properties.
- Risk of future clogging: Debris can clog an exterior drainage system, such as drain tiles, over time, preventing water from draining properly.
- Weather limitations: Exterior waterproofing installation is weather-dependent and may not be feasible during heavy rainfall and snowfall.
- Time and disruption: The installation may take a week or more and disrupt your landscaping.
Best Scenarios For Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Here are some of the best scenarios for exterior basement waterproofing:
- New construction: Exterior waterproofing installation is easiest when the building is under construction. It offers easy access to the exterior basement walls without the need for additional excavation and repair costs.
- Historic buildings: Installing this waterproofing system in historic buildings helps maintain their longevity by enhancing their structural integrity and offering lasting protection from moisture issues.
- Location prone to heavy rainfall: Homes in areas prone to heavy rainfall experience higher hydrostatic pressure. Exterior waterproofing offers protection against this increasing pressure.
- Finished basement: Installing exterior waterproofing for the finished basement helps create a dry and comfortable living space without requiring extensive renovation.
- Old homes: Old homes have a higher risk of groundwater seepage, so installing an exterior basement waterproofing system adds a layer of protection.
- Easy access to your foundation for excavation: Exterior waterproofing is suitable for properties built in larger areas that allow easy access to the foundation for excavation.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing Methods
Exterior basement waterproofing installation is carried out in the following steps:
- Install a French drain: A perforated pipe is installed at the base of the foundation to collect groundwater and direct it away through the drainage system. It prevents water from accumulating around the basement walls.
- Correct landscape grading: The ground around the basement should be sloped away from the structure to create negative grading, which prevents water from pooling around the property.
- Apply a waterproof coating: A waterproofing membrane is applied to the exterior basement wall. It acts as a barrier that prevents water penetration into the basement.
- Seal gaps: Sealing the gaps and cracks in the basement walls helps prevent water seepage. To seal cracks, polyurethane or epoxy may be applied.
- Conduct regular inspections: Regular inspections, at least once a year, are essential for maintaining the waterproofing system’s longevity.
Interior Vs. Exterior Basement Waterproofing: The Differences
Some of the main differences between interior and exterior basement waterproofing systems include the following:
Approach
Interior waterproofing installation channels water away from the basement and prevents water damage, while exterior waterproofing prevents water from entering the basement.
Installation Process & Locations
In interior waterproofing, the installation process is carried out inside the basement and involves processes such as applying sealants and installing sump pumps and drain tiles. In exterior waterproofing, the installation process happens outside the basement and involves excavating the perimeter landscape, installing a French drain, and applying a waterproof membrane.
Cost
Interior waterproofing is a less expensive option and is an ideal option if you have a limited budget. The exterior waterproofing process is more laborious and time-consuming, which makes it comparatively more expensive.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Interior Vs. Exterior Waterproofing
Here are some of the key factors that need to be considered in order to choose between interior and exterior basement waterproofing methods.
Budget Considerations
Determining your budget is an important part of selecting a suitable basement waterproofing method. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, interior waterproofing is the ideal choice. This option is more affordable and is a more immediate solution for fixing water problems in the basement.
Foundation’s Accessibility
Installing an exterior basement waterproofing system is only possible in properties with accessible foundations. It can be challenging in urban areas where buildings do not have sufficient space for excavation. In that case, interior waterproofing is an efficient solution.
Disruptions
Since exterior waterproofing requires excavation, its installation could disrupt your landscaping and require additional restoration work. If you do not want to deal with the hassle of landscape restoration, opt for interior basement waterproofing.
Interior Vs. Exterior Waterproofing: Which is a Better Option?
Choosing between interior and exterior basement waterproofing methods depends mainly on your budget, your home’s waterproofing needs, and foundation accessibility. Assessing the condition of your basement and consulting with professionals is equally important to ensure you invest in the right waterproofing solution. First Choice Waterproofing offers expert consultation and effective interior waterproofing services. Call us today to schedule a free inspection.
