Not only does a flooded basement wreak havoc on your home’s structural integrity, but it also deprives you of a functional part of your home. You can protect your home from major damage by waterproofing the basement. A variety of methods can be employed for waterproofing a basement, some on the exterior and some on the interior of your home. Both interior and exterior waterproofing serve the same purpose: safeguarding your home against water damage.
This article will help you compare interior and exterior waterproofing and understand which method is the most suitable for your basement.
What is Interior Basement Waterproofing?
Interior basement waterproofing methods involve resolving issues arising inside your basement due to water damage. Waterproofing experts will install high-tech drainage systems and sump pumps or apply sealants on the walls and floors to prevent water seepage during this process. Some common examples of interior waterproofing include the following:
- Drain tile: Drain tile involves a trench filled with gravel or rock dug around the perimeter of your basement. A perforated pipe is inserted into the trench to collect water and direct it away from your basement.
- Sump Pump: Sump pumps are designed to remove accumulated water from the foundation. A pit is dug in the basement floor to install the pump. When water levels in the pit rise, the pump automatically activates and pumps the water out of your home.
- Sealants: High-quality sealants can be used to fill cracks and gaps in walls. These help prevent groundwater or rain from seeping in.
- Dehumidifiers: Dehumidifiers absorb moisture from the air and prevent mold infestation. They often work in conjunction with drainage systems to dehumidify the environment.
What is Exterior Basement Waterproofing?
Exterior or external waterproofing systems aim to fix leaky basements from the outside of your home. This method involves applying waterproofing material on the exterior foundation walls to create a barrier that prevents water from seeping in. It is one of the best waterproofing methods to redirect water away from your basement. Common examples of exterior waterproofing systems include:
- Gutters: Gutters collect rainwater from the roof and channel it away from your home.
- Exterior Drainage Systems and Downspouts: French drains are a common type of external waterproofing system. Additionally, extended downspouts direct water away from the home’s exterior.
- Drain Tile: Also known as weeping tiles, drain tile collects groundwater and redirects it away from your foundation walls.
- Waterproofing Materials: Waterproof paints are applied to the external walls to provide an extra layer of protection against water. Additionally, sealants are used to fill gaps and cracks in the exterior walls that make them vulnerable to damage.
Interior vs. Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Choosing between interior and exterior waterproofing involves considering the benefits of each type and the condition of your basement. Here are some of the differences between the two methods.
Benefits
Both exterior and interior basement waterproofing offers numerous benefits. Interior waterproofing causes minimal disruption to your property and is less intrusive than external waterproofing. It requires no excavation, is quicker, and is more feasible. Unlike exterior waterproofing, interior waterproofing is suitable for any home regardless of the neighboring properties or landscaping. Moreover, it can be implemented at any time of the year, regardless of weather conditions.
While interior waterproofing keeps the basement dry and usable by removing water that has entered, external waterproofing stops water at the source. It prevents it from entering through the exterior foundation walls. It directly preserves your home’s physical stability, prevents mold infestation, and enhances its market value.
Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair utilizes the world’s most advanced basement waterproofing system from Safe Basements! This interior basement waterproofing system with its patented seal helps protect your basement from moisture while being radon mitigation ready, giving you a drier, safer living area.
Drawbacks
Despite targeting the primary source of moisture and providing a long-term solution, exterior waterproofing is a time-consuming and intrusive process. Excavation performed for exterior waterproofing requires extensive landscape disruption, unlike interior waterproofing, which does not harm the landscaping at all. Similarly, external waterproofing cannot be implemented during some weather conditions. A potential drawback of exterior waterproofing is that it can only be implemented if the foundation is easily accessible and neighboring properties and buildings are far enough away.
Condition of the Basement
Exterior waterproofing may be suitable for newly constructed properties or those in areas with heavy rainfall. On the other hand, internal systems are the ultimate option for homes with limited external space, where excavation is not possible.
Interior vs. Exterior Basement Waterproofing: Which Method Should I Use?
Before making the final decision, you should compare the benefits of exterior basement waterproofing with the benefits of interior waterproofing and evaluate the requirements of your basement and its current condition. In addition, your choice should be based on a variety of factors, including:
- How old is your home? The age of your home is crucial in determining the type of waterproofing solution your basement requires. Since homes are vulnerable to wear and tear over time, older homes usually require extensive repairs.
- Materials used in construction: The type of materials used during basement construction also determines the type of waterproofing solution needed. Substandard construction materials can lead to frequent basement problems.
- Your budget: Ask yourself: Will a small repair fix the problem, or do you need an extensive solution to fix your basement?
Waterproof Your Basement Today
Are you experiencing frequent moisture issues in the basement? Do you feel confused about the type of basement waterproofing method suitable for your basement? Contact Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair for professional guidance. The experts at Lamunyon will not only help you determine the best options for your home but also provide exceptional waterproofing services to fix your basement problems.
