How Invasive is Exterior Waterproofing?

The invasiveness of exterior waterproofing services may be one of the factors that you’re considering while choosing between exterior vs interior waterproofing. You might also be reading this to set your expectations when opting for an exterior waterproofing system for your basement. 

Either way, you will find this guide useful. We will talk about exterior waterproofing services in detail so that you know what to expect in terms of how invasive it is. Along the way, we’ll also cover a few benefits this waterproofing method has.  

Let’s begin! 

What Is Exterior Waterproofing

One of the main characteristics of exterior waterproofing is that it requires the area around the basement or foundation to be excavated. This is done to ensure that the waterproof membrane can be installed on the basement wall and footing. As a result, the water is barred away from it completely. 

Along with the waterproofing membrane, a weeping tile system can also be installed so that any accumulated water is directed away from the foundation. Typically, when a weeping tile system is installed, this is connected to either a storm sewer or an outdoor/indoor sump pump. 

The waterproofing membrane already keeps water away by itself. The purpose of the drainage system, along with the sump pump/storm sewer, is to keep water from pooling around the waterproofed foundation. 

Is Exterior Waterproofing Less Invasive Than Interior Waterproofing? 

Generally, exterior waterproofing services are considered less invasive than interior waterproofing. This is because most of the installation work for exterior waterproofing is done outside the home. 

However, if you will have an indoor sump pump instead of an outdoor sump pump or connection to a storm sewer, then some work will also need to be done indoors. The sump pit would need to be excavated and then connected to the weeping tile network. This, however, depends on your needs and preferences. 

Furthermore, to some homeowners, the idea of “invasiveness” may vary. Consider these scenarios: 

• You have prized plants around the basement that will need to be relocated during and after waterproofing is installed. 
• You would like the project done as quickly as possible in order to restore the privacy of your property. 

In the above cases, exterior waterproofing could be seen as more invasive. For the first scenario, plants would need to be permanently moved away from the basement perimeter because it is not recommended to keep plants, especially trees, near an exterior waterproofing system’s weeping tile network. The roots of the plants can find their way into the weeping tiles and cause blockages. 

As for the second scenario, exterior waterproofing does take a bit more time, mainly because of the excavation work that needs to be done first. Though to some, this makes the process more invasive, but the temporary wait is well worth it. Just check out the amazing benefits of exterior waterproofing in the next section!   

The Main Benefits of Exterior Waterproofing Services

Keep Water Away From Your Foundation

Exterior waterproofing is the only kind of waterproofing that does not let water touch your home’s foundation. This is because the waterproof membrane is installed outside, acting as a barrier. This means that your foundation will stay completely dry, as long as the waterproofing is installed by experienced professionals. 

Water is Kept Away Even if the Sump Pump Shuts Down 

For exterior waterproofing systems with a sump pump, even if it breaks down, the waterproofing membrane would still keep water completely out of your basement. However, it’s best to have the sump pump repaired as soon as you can, even if it’s just being used as a backup waterproofing option.   

Built to Last 

When you research how long exterior waterproofing lasts, you may get varying answers averaging seven to 10 years.

At PRO Waterproofers, we offer work with a long-lasting warranty of 30 years. When we install exterior waterproofing, it is truly built to last. So if you’ve ever wanted to have a basement bedroom or living room without worrying about leaks, our long-lasting exterior waterproofing is for you. 

The Steps Involved In Exterior Waterproofing

For those who are still thinking about the extent of invasiveness that exterior waterproofing has, this section is for you. Here, we talk about the steps involved in exterior waterproofing so that you know exactly what to expect. 

1. Assessment

First, the waterproofing expert will assess if your property is compatible with exterior waterproofing. There are some factors that could make interior waterproofing a more suited option, as we’ve discussed in our article, “Exterior vs Interior Waterproofing: Which is Better?”

2. Preparing the Project Site

Next, the project site is prepared. Surrounding clutter, plants, or any adjacent temporary structures will be removed.

3. Excavation of the Project Site 

Next, the area around the basement will be excavated. A trench measuring 20” to 30” will be made. Though an excavator can be used, other alternative methods of digging will also be used for any inaccessible areas.  

4. Removal of Old Weeping Tiles

Most likely, any old weeping tiles will need to be removed because they may be outdated, improperly installed, or blocked. 

5. Installing the Waterproof Membrane and Drainage Board

Either a self-adhesive membrane or a sprayed monolithic coating will be used as the waterproof membrane for the basement/foundation. The material to be used is matched with the needs of the property. In addition, the waterproofing expert will install drainage boards or dimpled boards to direct water down to the weeping tile network. 

6. Installing the New Weeping Tiles 

A new weeping tile drainage system (covered by three-quarter inch clear stones), is installed to keep water from pooling around the waterproofed basement. 

7. Installing Added Protection 

An additional layer of protective and insulating foam is installed over the waterproofing layers.

8. Backfilling

Once the exterior waterproofing is set in place, it will be backfilled carefully with native soil. 

Long-Lasting Exterior Waterproofing Without the Hassle 

In this article, we covered the steps involved when you get exterior waterproofing services from professional waterproofers. Though it does seem like a complicated process, we’re here to make it easy.

Based in Ontario, PRO Waterproofers is one of the most trusted waterproofing companies in the area. When we do exterior waterproofing services, we get our projects done in a timely manner. We also clean up after installation so that we leave nothing behind except a job well done. Furthermore, we make use of the best materials and innovative methods to give you a waterproofing solution that lasts.

If you would like to learn more about our services or take advantage of our FREE in-home consultation, please feel free to reach out!