Basement waterproofing

Waterproofing or flood protection?

These get mixed up, and the difference matters. Waterproofing deals with groundwater and rain coming through the walls or floor. If what comes up is sewage through a floor drain, no amount of waterproofing will stop it. That calls for a backwater valve.

Many basements have more than one problem. See basement flood protection for how the pieces fit together.

Check the simple things first

Some wet basements do not need a big job. Before you pay for one, check these:

• Downspouts. Do they drop water right beside the foundation?
• Grading. Does the ground slope toward your house instead of away from it?
• Window wells. Do they fill with water when it rains?
• Plumbing. A leak can look like a seepage problem. See leak detection if you are not sure.

The main options

• Interior drainage and a sump pump. Water is collected at the base of the wall or under the floor and carried to a sump pump, which sends it outside.
• Exterior waterproofing. The ground is dug out along the foundation, then the wall is sealed and drainage is added or replaced. It stops water at the wall, but it is a bigger job and disturbs the yard.
• Crack repair. A single leaking crack can sometimes be sealed on its own.

We tell you what we think is causing the water, which option fits and which parts of the work we would handle ourselves. Ask us before you book a larger project.

What we check

• When the water shows up. After rain, after snowmelt, or when someone runs a tap.
• Where it shows up. At the wall, through a crack or up through the floor.
• The weeping tiles. Where they drain, and whether they are connected to the sewer. A camera inspection can help.
• The sump pit. Whether you have one, whether it works, and where it discharges. See also battery backup.

Financing through Financeit

Financing is available through Financeit for eligible residential projects. Ask Waterworks about the options for your job. Financing is subject to credit approval. Terms and conditions apply.