How Much Does Basement Waterproofing Cost?

A wet basement is a common problem for homeowners in Canada. Statistics indicate that about 98% of basement areas suffer from water issues in some form during their lifespan. This staggering figure underscores the importance of basement waterproofing.

It’s an essential procedure that ensures long-term and quality use not only for the basement area but also for the entire building.

In this article, we’ll discuss basement waterproofing cost, how it’s calculated, what factors are considered, and how expenses on waterproofing works can be minimized.

The terms waterproofing and damp proofing are often used interchangeably. While they share similarities, they are not the same thing. The main difference lies in the construction waterproofing materials used and the implementation technique.

Damp proofing is a special coating applied to the exterior side of the wall either by spraying or manually. It’s generally not recommended in modern residential construction, but it’s still considered an acceptable form of protection in many situations. This type of insulation doesn’t allow moisture from the soil to penetrate but doesn’t stop water infiltration.

Basement waterproofing Toronto is the most effective method. Modern materials are used to prevent the penetration of any liquid, preventing the deterioration of the home’s concrete foundation and its uneven settling.

The waterproofing basement cost is significantly higher than damp proofing. But it’s well justified since the area will remain dry regardless of weather conditions and groundwater levels.

There is no fixed cost to waterproof basement. Each case and project is calculated individually. This is because many factors influence the final price. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Basement Size and Configuration

Since most waterproofing specialists charge per square foot, the size and configuration of the room are key factors in calculating the cost of waterproofing basement.

The average waterproofing cost per linear foot is $85, including materials and labor. These rates apply to methods such as French drains or baseboard channels. In all other cases, the price is calculated per square foot. Average rates range from $3.50 to $8.

Accordingly, the larger the basement size, the more expensive the waterproofing services will be.

The table below shows standard basement sizes and the corresponding cost of waterproofing work.

Choice Between Interior and Exterior Sealing

If the basement is already built and backfilling has not yet been done, exterior basement waterproofing is recommended; it is more effective and less expensive. However, you should do it during the building construction. If this moment is missed, many additional earthworks will be necessary: exposing the underground part, cleaning the surface, and arranging a trench drainage system. This significantly increases the cost of the operation.

But if, for some reason, it is not possible to perform exterior waterproofing or it did not work, then work is done from inside the room. Interior basement waterproofing will be cheaper than exterior after construction is completed because it involves less work and more affordable materials.

Type of Sealant

Today, the market offers a variety of different waterproofing materials. One of the most in-demand is sealant. It’s used to seal cracks and joints in basement walls, as well as in the floor and ceiling.

The material is a thick liquid that solidifies after application, forming a waterproof barrier. For basement waterproofing, the following types of sealants are used:

• Acrylic. They are highly flexible and durable, but with prolonged exposure to moisture, they tend to crack and peel. Therefore, they are recommended for internal use. The cost of acrylic sealants is approximately $3-4 per square foot.
• Epoxy. They have high moisture resistance. They do not crack or peel even with prolonged contact with water. An ideal solution for external work. However, they are more difficult to apply and require special tools and skills. The cost of epoxy sealants is approximately $5-7 per square foot.
• Silicate sealants. These are something in between acrylic and epoxy sealants. They provide reliable, long-term protection against moisture without being too expensive or difficult to apply, like epoxies. Silicate sealants cost approximately $4-6 per square foot.

Labor Costs

Labor costs are among the most significant factors in budgeting for a basement waterproofing project. Most contractors charge hourly rates. However, some waterproofing contractors set a basic basement leak repair cost, which is especially relevant for small projects.

Average basic rates vary from $3 to $6 per square foot. On an hourly basis, the rate is approximately $16 to $20.

Geographic Location

Foundation waterproofing cost also depends on the location. Different regions of the country have different weather conditions, which affect the methodology and volume of waterproofing work.

For example, leaky basement repair costs will be higher in areas with high rainfall because there is a higher groundwater level and a greater risk of flooding.

The majority of buildings in civil and residential construction have basements. In private homes, this space is typically used for garages, utility rooms, workshops, cellars, gyms, and so on.

During the construction of underground basements, the factor that they constantly come into contact with soil moisture and groundwater is not always considered. This leads to several issues: dampness, mold, musty odors, rust formation on metallic elements, etc. It is necessary to provide hydraulic protection for your basement to prevent these problems.

Reliable protection against water and moisture is not the only advantage of waterproofing. It also:

• Increases the strength and durability of the foundation.
• Improves indoor air quality.
• Eliminates the need for expensive repair work.
• Enhances comfort levels in the home.
• Increases the market value of the property.

You should not underestimate waterproofing, as it is a beneficial investment in the structural integrity of the building and the improvement of its strength.

If you plan to use the services of waterproofing specialists, you should know that, in addition to the main basement waterproofing cost, there are several additional expenses and aspects considered in Canada. What are they? Let’s find out.

Foundation Material and State

This is one of the critical aspects to consider when planning waterproofing work. This is because different types of foundations require different approaches to waterproofing.

For example, monolithic foundations are subjected to many atmospheric influences. One of the most aggressive is the impact of water and moisture. Therefore, they require a more effective waterproofing solution. Brick or stone foundations have lower permeability but require special attention to existing cracks or damage.

Also, do not forget about the condition of the foundation. A foundation with obvious signs of damage (cracks, subsidence, mold, etc.) requires restoration and reinforcement.

Age of the Home

An old house’s leaky basement repair cost will be much higher because such buildings often have problems with the foundation, ceilings, walls, and roof due to aging materials and structures.

Before waterproofing old buildings, more thorough preparation is required, including preliminary foundation repair, removal of old waterproofing materials, or cleaning accumulated moisture and dirt.

Mold or Asbestos Remediation

These works are often required before performing interior waterproofing. Mold remediation involves specialized measures such as cleaning affected concrete walls and other areas, treating surfaces with antimicrobial agents, and installing a ventilation system to prevent recurrence.

If the building is old, you may need to spend more money on removing asbestos and remedying mold. Asbestos was widely used in construction as an insulator and reinforcement material. However, asbestos can be released into the air and pose a health hazard when it deteriorates. A professional approach and strict safety and disposal measures are required to get rid of asbestos.

Water Table Level

To protect against groundwater, waterproofing of foundation walls is necessary, considering the depth of underground water and its level of fluctuation throughout the year. Why is this important?

If the groundwater level in the area where your house is located is high, you may need more complex and expensive waterproofing methods. For example, sump pump installation, more effective and expensive waterproofing materials, etc.

Interior Water Drainage Solutions

In some cases, it makes sense to waterproof the basement and control water with interior drainage. A small trench (about 6-8 inches deep and wide) is dug to set it up, leading to a drainage channel or sump pump.

Regular maintenance of interior drainage systems is important. This includes cleaning drainage pipes, checking for leaks and malfunctions, and replacing worn or damaged components. This will ensure their effectiveness and prevent potential issues.

Landscape Grading

Often, landscaping can cause more harm than good, especially if there are water problems in the basement. Even if it’s not the cause of flooding, well-planned grading can help solve this problem.

One of the main aspects of grading is creating a slope that directs water away from the house. This prevents water from pooling at the foundation, reducing the risk of water penetration into the basement. These works can significantly improve basement waterproofing but require special engineering skills and knowledge of soils and fill materials.

Additions of Gutters and Downspouts

Many homeowners don’t realize the important role their gutter system plays in keeping the basement dry. Without gutters and downspouts, excessive rainwater runoff can lead to water pooling near the foundation walls, providing a direct path to a damp basement.

If you lack a gutter system or it’s improperly installed, it’s essential to consider installing or fixing it. This will greatly enhance the effectiveness of your basement waterproofing project.

Excavation Needs

Many of the above solutions and waterproofing methods require excavation to access the foundation. Typically, this takes 2 to 3 days. Whether it’s exterior waterproofing methods using membranes, installing drainage systems, or landscaping, they all require specific knowledge and the use of specialized equipment.

Excavation Toronto may also be necessary to clear debris or level the terrain, which can hinder effective water drainage and increase the risk of moisture problems in the basement.

Required Permits

A permit may be required to confirm the legality and safety of the waterproofing work, depending on its nature, the scale of the project, and local building regulations.

In some cases, it may be necessary to coordinate the work with neighbors or owners of adjacent plots, especially if it may affect their property or their comfort and safety. Clarifying the requirements and obtaining permits is essential to avoid potential problems with local authorities, fines, and delays in project implementation.

There are two main basement waterproofing methods: inside and outside. Each involves the use of different execution technologies and waterproofing materials. For example, external waterproofing may include laying a membrane on the foundation walls below ground level or installing a drainage system.

If we are talking about internal water protection, dig trenches around the basement perimeter and install drains to drain groundwater. You can also use a waterproof coating to seal the walls.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these methods.

Exterior Sealing

Exterior waterproofing involves working on the outer side of the foundation walls. How much does it cost to waterproof a basement from the outside? Depending on the method, the price will vary from $1,000 to $15,000.

For example, cement waterproofing is a simple and relatively inexpensive technology. However, it has a significant drawback. The concrete mixture applied to the walls does not always adhere well, and if the foundation settles or shifts, the protective layer may crack.

The most reliable and effective method is exterior waterproofing using membranes (sheets of rubberized asphalt on a waterproof polyethylene film). However, it is also the most expensive.

Interior Sealing

Interior waterproofing may include sealing the surface with waterproof paint, installing drainage, vapor barriers, etc. Each solution has its place and different effects on the cost of waterproofing basement from inside, so homeowners need to consider them all.

For example, the simplest and usually inexpensive option for waterproofing is applying waterproof paint on an acrylic basis to the interior walls and floor of the basement. It adheres well and simultaneously creates a good waterproof barrier. Much more expensive would be the installation of a drainage system.

Below, we have compared the costs of internal and external waterproofing. You can familiarize yourself with the differences and make an informed decision about the best option.

Overall, external basement waterproofing provides more reliable protection against moisture and water penetration into the basement but usually involves higher costs than internal waterproofing. The choice of waterproofing method depends on specific conditions and requirements.

We have gathered effective and proven tips for you to reduce the wet basement repair cost:

• Act promptly as soon as you notice moisture problems in your basement. They will only worsen over time and increase your expenses for repairs and waterproofing.
• Even if you hire professionals, you can save on labor costs by doing some preparatory or finishing work yourself.
• Before making a choice, inquire about the rates from at least three waterproofing contractors.
• If the issue is minor, try to identify the source of the leak yourself and fix it with sealant or waterproof paint. If the situation does not improve, seek help from specialists.
• Regularly conduct maintenance, like cleaning gutters and inspecting the foundation to detect any issues.
• Prefer internal to external solutions if possible. However, remember that internal waterproofing materials require more careful maintenance and replacement after a certain period.

How much to waterproof basement? This question concerns every homeowner, especially if there are problems with dampness, musty odors, and mold in the basement.

Prices will vary for each specific case and property. For example, waterproofing basement walls from inside will cost less than exterior waterproofing. It is also important to consider several factors that may affect the cost of the service.

To find out how much basement waterproofing will cost, contact our company, Quality Age Build. Our experienced specialists will help you determine the exact price of the work based on your needs and conditions. Contact us now to protect your basement from water!