Waterproofing becomes a final recourse to protecting homes against the very expensive water damage, mainly when the basement is humid, leaky, or smells like mould. Yet, one of the most frequently asked questions by homeowners remains: "Should I waterproof my home on the interior side or the exterior side?" Both methods are effective under certain situations, and both have pros and cons that would affect the price.
This article aims to enlighten you on the differences between interior and exterior Waterproofing so that you can take the right opportunity to solve your basement problems within your budget, in case you are residing in a moisture-threatened area such as Toronto.
The Importance of Waterproofing Your Basement
Now consider the importance of waterproofing a basement before you discuss the two methods of waterproofing.
- Mould and mildew development
- Foundation erosion
- Structural deterioration
- Lowered property value
- Health hazards from indoor air pollution
Proper Waterproofing keeps your home safe from all sorts of immediate destruction and increases life expectancy while also preserving any integrity that exists in the construction.
What Is Exterior Waterproofing?
Exterior Waterproofing means stopping water from entering your basement from the outside. It remedies water problems at their source by sealing around the foundation of the house.
Process Description:
- Excavation-The soil is excavated from around the foundation walls so as to expose the footing base.
- Foundation Wall Cleaning-Cracks in the foundation wall are filled with hydraulic cement.
- Waterproof Membrane Application-The waterproof Membrane (such as liquid coating, rubberized asphalt, etc.) is applied on the foundation.
- Drainage System Installation-A new weeping tile system is installed to divert the water from the foundation.
- Protective Layering: A dimpled drainage board is placed to guard the Membrane and direct water into the drainage system.
- Backfilling: The space is backfilled with soil and gravel.
Pros:
- Durable protection
- Prevents water from entering the structure in the first place
- Suitable for significant leakage or foundation fractures
- Increases the value of your property
Cons:
- Labour and costly
- Takes digging and landscape disruption
- Not always practical in densely constructed areas
Best For:
Structures where the base is in serious shape or where there is a continued flood threat issue, particularly those whose yard can be excavated. Exterior Waterproofing in cities like Toronto where the older homes usually have poor drain system can literally be a life saver.
What Is Waterproofing Within?
Interior Waterproofing is done- at the interior of the basement to manage and redirect any incoming water. On the contrary, it does not hold water in place since it rather diverts the flow before causing any harm.
It works as follows:
- Wall and floor sealing: Epoxy or polyurethane like injections are used to seal cracks in the walls and the floors.
- Drainage Channel Installation: Drainage channel is put in place around the floor of the basement like an interior French drain.Sump Pump System: Water is channelled into a sump basin and pumped out from around the foundation.
- Vapour Barriers: Wall liners or vapour barriers are occasionally installed to help control moisture.
Advantages:
- Less expensive than exterior techniques
- Minimal disturbance to the outdoor space
- Efficient at dealing with minor leaks and condensation
- Faster installation
Cons:
- It does not prevent water from reaching the foundation.
- It may require frequent maintenance on a sump pump.
- It may only be a temporary solution for severe water problems.
Ideal For:
Houses that experience periodic seepage or where exterior excavation cannot be accommodated. Interior-based units are common in cities where houses are side by side—like most communities in Toronto—where digging beyond the house foundation is impractical.
Comparing Costs
Basement waterproofing cost can be substantially different according to the area you are waterproofing, the level of damage, as well as your mode of doing it.
Exterior Waterproofing can be more expensive due to the need to dig the ground, to get permissions and materials. Interior Waterproofing is cheaper, though it may need to be combined with sump pump upgrades or repairs of cracks in order to have the best outcomes.
Which Waterproofing Approach Is Best for You?
The following are some considerations for you to make the choice between interior and exterior solutions:
Select Exterior Waterproofing if:
- You experience repetitive flooding, or you see water entering through foundation walls.
- There are structural fissures in the exterior walls.
- You desire a long-term, preventive fix.
- Landscaping disruption is not of great concern.
Select Interior Waterproofing if:
- You are on a smaller budget.
- The water problems are slight or periodic.
- Excavation cannot be achieved because of space or property limitations.
- You desire a quick fix for a finished basement.
Is it Possible to Employ Both Systems Simultaneously?
Yes! Most of the time, a hybrid is, in fact, the optimal way. That is an interior drainage system with a sump pump on one corner and exterior crack sealing or exterior weeping tile installation on the other.
An expert waterproofing contractor will very often insist on the implementation of both if a building is very susceptible to water entry, or, in some places, there is evidence of old flooding.
Conclusion
It all depends on your personal baseline conditions, finances, as well as your future perspectives. The exterior methods lead to a more disruptive and costly form of treatment, but they give a permanent seal against water. Interior systems are less intrusive and economical; however, they handle the water after it enters the house.
In both cases, a newer home or an older house in Toronto, the same can happen- some Waterproofing can save it all and turn the headache into a dry, functional basement, and eliminate a long-term problem.
When you are confused about what to do, contact an excellent waterproofing expert who will analyze your house and recommend the most economical and durable process.
