As a homeowner, you definitely want your home to be safe, dry and waterproof. However, the reality is that almost all basements suffer from water damage at some point. So, it’s not about IF you need basement waterproofing, but rather WHEN you will need it, and WHAT kind of waterproofing system you should choose. Below is an overview of the two main methods: interior and exterior basement waterproofing.

Interior waterproofing

Since interior basement waterproofing system comes into play, when there’s already water getting into your basement, this is not technically a waterproofing solution, but rather a water management system. When talking about interior waterproofing, we usually mean a sump pump installation – drainage system that collects water from the weeping tiles and pushes it outside the house.

Interior basement waterproofing has some advantages over exterior waterproofing like:

• the home’s exterior landscaping is not disrupted;
• the installation can be performed no matter what the weather conditions are;
• it is least expensive.

However, its disadvantages are much more prominent:

• it doesn’t keep water from penetrating inside the house;
• water penetration hampers the block walls and may cause mold development.

So, this solution can be deployed when, for instance, excavating is not possible due to accessibility cases. But whenever possible, exterior waterproofing should be considered as a priority.

Exterior waterproofing

This solution may include partially rebuilding the foundation, applying hydrostatic mastic and installing a new drainage system, if required. The method has number of important advantages:

• that’s a truly waterproofing method since when applied properly, it stops water from entering the home;
• the pressure on the basement walls is relieved as water in the soil along the exterior of the basement walls drains into the drain tile;
• there is minimal to no disturbance to the interior of basement.

Unfortunately, there are also some important disadvantages to exterior waterproofing:

• it involves excavating and hence, disruptions of exterior landscape;
• work may take several days to complete.

Unluckily, weather conditions in Toronto area cause basements to leak too often. With lots of rain in spring and fall, and lots of melting snow in winter, it seems that waterproofing in Etobicoke and its neighborhood is a must. However, it comes as a bonus that waterproofing is likely to increase significantly the price of your property if you decide to sell it at some point.
Every house is unique, and you should consult with a professional to design the proper waterproofing system for your particular home. Here at Tornado Plumbing we offer high-quality waterproofing service and are always happy to protect property of Toronto inhabitants from water damage. Feel free to contact us and stay dry!