Comparing Basement Waterproofing Methods

Although water damage is often associated with older homes, that doesn’t mean newer homes aren’t susceptible, either. If you’ve noticed cracks, crumbling mortar, or white, salty residue known as efflorescence, you should contact a professional like Brickworks Property Restoration to schedule an inspection.

Waterproofing products and moisture-reducing methods save homeowners thousands of dollars in basement and foundation brick repair and restoration costs. The challenge is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. The right method will vary depending on the overall budget, the severity of the problem, and the source of the water damage.

In this article, we’ll explore some of these methods, their advantages, and their most common use cases.

Sealants & Coatings

Bricks and paver jointing can degrade from exposure to interior moisture, and when frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions. In fact, the portion of the exterior wall that is exposed to extreme environmental conditions will require protection even sooner than the interior portion.

Sealants and coatings help provide lasting insulation and extend the life expectancy of interior and exterior brick and stone basement walls.

There are several types, including:

• Epoxy coatings, which form a dense, glossy layer over basement wall materials. These coatings provide superior protection against moisture penetrations and shield against staining and scratching.
• Sealants, which soak right into the bricks to create an almost invisible barrier. They are also frequently used to coat basement floors for added protection against radon.
• Waterproof paints and acrylic sealers, which help extend the usefulness of bricks and degrading mortar in the paver joints.

Advantages

• Most sealants and coatings are clear, so they do not alter the appearance
• Colored products are available if homeowners want to alter the appearance

Disadvantages

• Applications can be labor-intensive
• Bricks and paver jointing require professional preparation

Best Use Cases

• Interior and exterior basement walls experiencing minor moisture issues
• Homes that need surface-level protection

French Drains

French drains are a standard method of siphoning off water from basements and foundations. Basement floors are usually sloped to allow gravity to naturally move pooling water into the drain, which is then carried out of the lower level into drainage pipes. The same holds true of exterior French drains.

An exterior drain system is installed to prevent water from seeping into the ground near the foundation. Without a way to effectively move rainwater and melting snow away from the foundation, cracks can form.

Advantages

• Doesn’t rely on pumps to move water

Disadvantages

• Typically requires an experienced contractor
• Does not help fix damaged bricks or mortar

Best Use Cases

• Sloped properties where water naturally flows toward the house
• Homes in areas that experience significant rain and snow

Sump Pumps

Sump pumps, which are installed in a space below the floor, are one of the best ways to prevent basement flooding and protect the foundation’s structural integrity. When heavy rains or waterway overflows begin to flood a basement, the sump pump automatically activates and pushes water through a piping system out of the basement and away from the foundation.

Advantages

• Prevents basement floods
• Protects basement walls from excessive moisture contact

Disadvantages

• Only triggered after water has entered the space
• Does not protect against moisture from humidity

Best Use Cases

• Ideal for homes situated in flood zones
• Basements that frequently experience flooding
• Homes in areas with heavy clay soil

Foundation Crack Repair

When portions of a basement wall need repointing, sections can be removed and rebuilt. However, when basements have been neglected for a long time, comprehensive brick repairs and restoration work may be needed.

For narrow cracks, a mason can carve out the failing mortar and perform repointing. To address larger cracks or areas with extreme efflorescence, entire sections typically need to be removed and replaced by an experienced professional. For homeowners with cracks in concrete foundations, an epoxy can be injected, which closes the gaps and creates a strong bond between the separating slabs.

Advantages

• Closes gaps where freezing water divides concrete
• A cost-effective way to fix gaps and strengthen the foundation

Disadvantages

• Does not resolve the root cause of the water problem
• Requires surface grinding and painting/coating to blend in
• Not suitable for foundations with active movement or major structural issues

Best Use Cases

• When cracks are the main source of water entry
• Older homes in northern climate areas
• When homes need a comprehensive moisture reduction solution
• When minor foundation issues are discovered

How Professionals Determine the Best Method

Dealing with a basement water problem is best left to professionals. Contractors who inspect and resolve flooding, excess moisture, and basements that have not been properly maintained know how to develop and implement cost-effective solutions. A property restoration specialist looks beyond obvious damage for issues that result in deterioration.

The severity of the damage and the ongoing problem largely determine the direction a restoration specialist recommends. For example, if your basement is frequently flooding, a sealant/coating would not be the best solution. However, if your property is sloped, but you haven’t yet experienced any water damage, a recommended solution might be a French drain paired with preventative sealants.

Do You Need Basement Waterproofing?

Brickworks Property Restoration provides prompt, budget-friendly, and long-lasting waterproofing solutions to property owners in Detroit, MI. Our experts use precision-engineered techniques to develop customized systems designed to keep water out of your home. Whether you need a sump pump repaired or installed, an engineered drain system, or full-scale foundation restoration, our experts can handle it all.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection—don’t forget to ask us about our financing options!