Exterior Waterproofing

What Exterior Waterproofing Involves

Exterior waterproofing addresses the source of the problem rather than managing water after it has already made its way inside. We excavate along the affected section of foundation down to the footing, exposing the full height of the wall. The old, often failed or original waterproofing is cleared away, the wall is inspected and repaired where needed, and a new waterproof membrane is applied along with a dimpled drainage board that channels water down and away from the wall instead of letting it sit against the concrete. At the footing, we install or repair the weeping tile — the perforated pipe that collects groundwater and carries it to a sump pit or storm connection — before backfilling with free-draining material that keeps water moving instead of pooling against the foundation.

This is different from interior waterproofing, which manages water after it has already entered the basement by intercepting it at an interior drain. Exterior waterproofing is the more thorough approach because it keeps water out of the wall assembly entirely, which also protects the concrete itself from long-term saturation and freeze–thaw damage. It typically involves more excavation and landscaping disruption than interior work, so it isn’t always the right fit for every property or budget — our interior vs. exterior waterproofing guide walks through how we help you decide between the two.

What’s Included

• Excavation to the footing along the section of wall showing damage or water intrusion, with careful handling of landscaping, decks, or walkways in the way.
• Wall inspection and repair of any cracks or deteriorated concrete found once the wall is exposed, before the membrane goes on.
• Waterproof membrane and drainage board applied to the full exposed height of the wall to shed water away from the concrete.
• Weeping tile installation or repair at the footing, connected to proper drainage, with backfill using material that won’t trap water against the wall.

What to Expect

1. Inspection & assessment. We look at the affected wall, the grading around it, and where water is coming from.
2. Written estimate. A clear scope, timeline, and price before anything is scheduled or dug.
3. Excavation. The soil along the wall is removed down to the footing, exposing the full problem area.
4. Membrane, drainage board & weeping tile. The wall is sealed and drainage is rebuilt at the footing.
5. Backfill & site restoration. Proper drainage material goes back in, and the surface is restored as close as possible to how it started.

When to Call Us

Exterior waterproofing is worth investigating whenever water seems to be working its way through the wall itself rather than coming from an isolated crack or fixture. Call sooner if you notice:

Frequently Asked Questions