Exterior Waterproofing - Do You Need It?

If you really want to be able to keep water out of your home and basement, you need to apply some exterior waterproofing. Although this can be extremely effective in keeping the area dry, the fact of the matter is that not all exterior waterproofing is created equal. It is also going to make a large difference which type of basement waterproofing is put into place. Let's take a look at some of the options that you have and see which will work best for you.

Of course, the best time for you to apply any waterproofing is during the initial construction phase. The reason why this is the case is because the foundation is going to be exposed and you will be able to get down and apply any waterproofing that is necessary before the area is backfilled.

You are also going to be able to apply it rather thickly which will make a difference in how well the waterproofing is going to work once the construction is complete. Look into the possibility of including a french drain around the foundation of the home in order to direct any standing water away from the area and to lower ground.

If you are living in an existing home and you would like to do some exterior waterproofing, you're going to have a little bit more work on your hands. It might be necessary for you to dig around the basement foundation in order to apply the waterproofing, just as you would if it were for a new construction project.

It is important whenever this takes place that the foundation is clean and free of debris before the waterproofing is applied. As is the case with new construction, you should also take the time to install a french drain and direct any standing water away from the home.

The two main types of exterior waterproofing are going to be those that are made from modified asphalt and others which are rubber-based. The best thing that you can do is to call around to some of the local contractors in order to find out which of these products they are going to use.

You may also want to call the manufacturers directly and get any product information that you can in advance. Understanding how these various external waterproofing systems are going to work can help you to make an informed decision before you have the work done.