How Much Does Waterproofing Cost?

One of the biggest expenses a homeowner can deal with is having a basement flood. Not only does an unforeseen flood affect the structure of the home, all of the valued, personal items that need to be discarded due to flood damage can add to an already high cost. However, an ounce of prevention can save a pound of cure.

By waterproofing your basement, you can prevent a devastating catastrophe from happening. Waterproofing is a relatively inexpensive and long-lasting cure that can protect your family’s home. In this article, we’ll discuss what influences the cost to basement waterproofing and what you need to be aware of.

Note: The price range discussed in this article is for general knowledge and research. Contact your local plumbing company for an accurate quote.

Signs of Water Damage in Your Basement

There are several signs that your basement is suffering from water damage with some more serious than others. Musty odours, an existence of mold, and an increased humidity level are some of the first signs of water damage. Peeling paint or wallpaper, an increased humidity level, or discolourations show an increased threat level.

Some of the highest level threat indications include wood rot, standing water, and cracks in the floor or foundation. Being aware of these conditions can go a long way to help a homeowner know that a problem exists, and waterproofing the basement is required to save further expense later.

How Much Does Waterproofing Cost?

While it would be advantageous for a homeowner to see one price for all waterproofing jobs, there are a number of factors that determine the cost to waterproof a basement. When determining how much waterproofing costs, it is important to keep the following factors in mind.

If cost is an issue at the moment, the cost of just waterproofing a basement from the inside can be a helpful first step.

Some of what’s involved:

  • Removing old paint and waterproofing;
  • Apply a new sealant on the interior basement walls and floors;
  • Installing weeping tile and a sump pump to direct water away from your basement.

The cost for these enhancements to your basement depend on several factors, but the three most important factors are the size of your basement, the method that is chosen, and your basement’s location. With that in mind, costs can range from $70 – $350 per linear foot (ln/ft) with an average around $100 per ln/ft. In general terms, the total amount can range from $10,000 to $30,000.

With a major renovation of the exterior of the home, the cost of exterior waterproofing can be greater. 

Some of what’s involved: 

  • Excavating around the outside of the foundation of the home;
  • Repairing cracks with an expanding cement; 
  • Installing an impermeable wrap on the outside of the foundation; 
  • Backfilling dirt around the foundation and cleaning up.

The cost for waterproofing the exterior of a home is higher, and one major reason is it involves professional excavators with earth moving equipment. Materials add to the cost, but this can also vary depending on the quality and level of protection requested or required. With that in mind, costs can range from $100 to $300 per ln/ft with an average of about $150 per ln/ft. In general terms, the total amount may range from $15,000 to $30,000.

Before the cost of waterproofing your basement on the interior, exterior, or both causes concern, Water Guard Plumbing has financing options that can relieve the financial pain.  We offer a Best Price Guarantee with the possibility of 0% interest payments over 12 months with no payment upfront. We help make it easier to make the decision to protect your home.

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Emergency replacement of burst

Leaky Basement Repair Cost – Best Value for Money

When it comes to the repair cost of a leaky basement, there are options that are cheaper at the outset.

Repairing minor cracks in the walls and floor of a basement can be affordably done with crack sealant. Depending on the severity, this can cost as little as a few hundred dollars.

Basic waterproofing the interior of your basement can be done with waterproof paint at $1 to $2 per square foot (sq/ft). This is essentially damp proofing and doesn’t plug cracks or divert large amounts of water.

While these options can be DIY, you should discuss alternatives with the professionals at Water Guard Plumbing.

Factors That Impact The Cost of Basement Waterproofing

When asking about waterproofing your home, there are several factors to keep in mind that impact cost.

  • Basement size – obviously, the larger the basement, the higher the cost. Accurate measurements help to make the estimate more accurate.
  • Age of your home – generally, newer homes are more cost-effective to waterproof.
  • Accessibility – if your basement has tight spaces or is in a complex layout, those factors can increase the cost.
  • Location – if your home is in a wetter area or at a high elevation, this may affect the cost.
  • Type of soil around the foundation – the type of soil around your foundation can affect stability which can lead to cracking and water damage.
  • How big is your problem? – the cost of waterproofing a basement will depend on whether your home is in an area prone to floods or in a less wet area.
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Which Is The Cheapest Basement Waterproofing Type?

If other aspects of your home are taking priority with your budget, there are short term solutions that can be undertaken to waterproof your basement. 

  • Interior waterproof paint – this DIY method comes in at $1-$2 per sq/ft. This acrylic based paint method is for interior walls and floors but doesn’t plug cracks or protect from larger amounts of water. 
  • Exterior Bentonite clay – this clay absorbs many times its weight in water. After saturation, it doesn’t allow excess water to pass. The cost of applying this clay to the foundations of a new home may be around $3 to $4 per sq/ft. (This is not easily a DIY project.)

While these methods may have cost-effectiveness, they are best augmented by bringing in the professionals at Water Guard Plumbing.

Need to Waterproof Your Basement? Call Now

Take preventative measures today with Water Guard Plumbing in Toronto. Representatives are available to give a free estimate over the phone or through our online chat where you can immediately upload an image of an issue troubling you. We look forward to finding a solution that works for you.

Related Article: Do I Need a Sump Pump