Diy Basement Waterproofing From Outside

DIY Basement Waterproofing From Outside

Waterproofing your basement from the outside is a more permanent solution than waterproofing from the inside. It involves excavating around the foundation of your home to expose the exterior walls, then applying a waterproofing membrane or coating to seal any cracks or gaps. This method is more expensive and time-consuming than interior waterproofing, but it is also more effective.

Step 1: Excavate Around the Foundation

The first step is to excavate around the foundation of your home. This can be done by hand or with a rented excavator. Be careful not to damage the foundation of your home while excavating.

Step 2: Clean the Foundation Walls

Once the foundation has been excavated, clean the walls with a pressure washer. This will remove any dirt, debris, or mold that may be present. Allow the walls to dry completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Apply a Waterproofing Membrane

There are a variety of waterproofing membranes available on the market. Some membranes are self-adhesive, while others require a primer to be applied first. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the membrane to the foundation walls.

Step 4: Install Drainage Tile

Once the waterproofing membrane has been applied, install a drainage tile around the perimeter of the foundation. The drainage tile will collect water that seeps through the membrane and direct it to a sump pump. The sump pump will then pump the water out of the basement.

Step 5: Backfill the Excavation

Once the drainage tile has been installed, backfill the excavation with clean gravel or dirt. Compact the backfill thoroughly to prevent settling.

Step 6: Repair Cracks and Gaps

Finally, inspect the foundation walls for any cracks or gaps. Seal any cracks or gaps with a hydraulic cement or other suitable sealant.

Tips

Here are a few tips for waterproofing your basement from the outside:

Use a waterproofing membrane that is specifically designed for below-grade applications.
Apply the waterproofing membrane in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Install a drainage tile around the perimeter of the foundation to collect water that seeps through the membrane and direct it to a sump pump.
Backfill the excavation with clean gravel or dirt and compact it thoroughly to prevent settling.
Repair any cracks or gaps in the foundation walls with a hydraulic cement or other suitable sealant.