A notable concern among many homeowners is how to avoid moisture or water in the basement. A wet basement does not just affect the area itself; it can also impact the foundation, walls and support beams of the structure. If mold and mildew develop, it can lead to serious health problems. So, how much does basement waterproofing cost?
Ensuring that the foundation will prevent flooding by putting a comprehensive seal in place can save a lot of trouble in the future. However, the magnitude of this job and the potential for problems lead many people to seek the services of professional basement waterproofing.
Waterproofing a basement is a large job that includes planning the project, sealing the foundation, waterproofing the walls using cement, installing a perimeter drain or sump pump, diverting runoff away from the foundation and repairing any cracks.
It can be difficult to estimate the cost of a basement waterproofing project due to the many factors that go into the task. Protecting a basement from moisture should be viewed as an investment rather than an expense given its potential to prevent the need for more costly work in the future.
Factors Which Influence The Cost Of Basement Waterproofing
The overall cost of basement waterproofing depends a lot on your specific basement.
Below are some of the factors that can influence the cost of a basement waterproofing job:
Where You Live
The location of the home can impact the cost significantly, with wetter climates generally being more expensive to waterproof. The geography surrounding the home and its elevation can also play a role. Labor costs can also vary across different cities. It is important to find a professional waterproofing expert in your location.
Additionally, the age of the home can influence the cost. Newer homes are generally more affordable to waterproof, while older homes might require a more expensive approach.
The Size Of Your Basement
The size of a basement is one of the biggest factors in the cost of waterproofing. Homeowners can expect to spend somewhere between $5 and $10 per square foot on waterproofing projects.
Existence Of Cracks In The Foundation
Any leaks or cracks in the foundation must be repaired during the waterproofing process. This could cost between $500 and $1000 on average. Holes and cracks can occur naturally in a foundation over time, and the damage that they cause can be significant.
Cracks wider than 1/8 inch are especially concerning and may indicate structural issues, but cracks that do not impact the structure are relatively easy to repair.
Interior Foundation Sealing
Professional interior concrete waterproofing and foundation coatings are used to keep out any water that makes its way through exterior barriers. Professional interior concrete waterproofing costs between $500 and $1,000 on average. The labor costs for coating tend to be lower than other sealing methods because there is no need for excavation.
Exterior Foundation Sealing
Exterior foundation sealing may be needed to ensure water cannot get inside the home. Waterproofing experts can determine the best way to approach the task. If the home has a crawlspace, access issues could tack on anywhere from $1,500 to $15,000.
Type Of Sealant Used
Some waterproofing methods are more expensive than others. Homeowners should consider the pros and cons of each option to determine which is the most cost-effective for their project.
Cement waterproofing is a popular solution for keeping water out that can be applied directly to exterior walls. Owners can expect to pay between $1000 and $1500 for cement waterproofing, including the dry cementitious solution mix, professional labor costs and patching cracks.
If drainage panels and excavation are necessary, installing a foundation waterproofing membrane can cost up to $15,000. This process involves fitting membranes of laminated rubberized asphalt to the exterior wall. Insulation can be tricky, so it is best left to the professionals. However, this can be a very durable solution for wetter climates with expanding clay soil.
A weeping tile system may be used in addition to or instead of membrane and cement waterproofing options. This entails placing plastic pipes with punched holes around the home’s exterior walls. It costs between $100 and $250 depending on the depth of excavation needed and the area’s accessibility. Water that might enter the home flows into these pipes instead and is guided away from the structure. This can apply to concrete foundations, crawl spaces and basements.
Silicate concrete sealers are one of the cheaper options, costing between $3 and $9 per square foot for the sealers and labor. These sealers penetrate the walls they are applied to, spurring a chemical reaction with the concrete that makes it more likely to stay dry. It does not change the look of the walls. Instead of trapping the moisture, this option allows it to escape.
Reach Out To A Professional Waterproofing Company
Waterproofing is considered one of the most important steps in caring for a home and preventing future problems. To learn more about the best way to prevent leakage and water seepage in your home, reach out to the professional waterproofers at Waterproof Caulking & Restoration LLC.