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Case Study: Basement Waterproofing for a Fieldstone Home in Finleyville, PA

fieldstone foundation basement waterproofed with interior drainage and a wall vapor barrier

A homeowner in Finleyville, PA, loved her 100-year-old house, but was concerned about the basement. Water leaked inside during rain, raising concerns about stored items and potential mold growth.

Searching for a reliable solution, she contacted the local Groundworks Company serving Greater Pittsburgh. The team customized basement waterproofing solutions to meet the basement’s needs, including drainage and a wall vapor barrier compatible with fieldstone foundation walls.

These solutions control moisture and keep water out of the basement and away from the home. They create a dry, healthy, and functional space that the homeowner can now use for storage.


The Challenge

  • Leaking basement during rainfall
  • Potential mold growth risks
  • Old stone foundation construction

The Solution

  • Interior drainage and sump pump
  • Wall vapor barrier
  • Dehumidifier

The Impact

  • Customized moisture control solutions
  • Improved wall appearance
  • Completely dry basement space

Before Basement Waterproofing:

Leaking Stone Walls

Two years after falling in love with and purchasing a charming 100-year-old house, a Finleyville homeowner started to question the condition of the basement. Water leaked into several areas when it rained, resulting in less than one inch of water. This impacted storage in the basement, and the homeowner was concerned about mold growth. The home’s stone basement walls were another factor. Stone or fieldstone foundations are common in homes built more than 100 years ago in the Pittsburgh area, but they can be a challenge to properly waterproof and maintain.

Health and Safety Concerns

The owner was unsure how to nip these problems in the bud, but she obtained multiple repair quotes from various companies, including Groundworks. While evaluating her basement, an inspector noticed evidence of water intrusion, efflorescence, and possible mold on the stone walls.

After Basement Waterproofing:

stone basement waterproofed with a wall vapor barrier and interior drainage

Improved Health and Appearance

The inspector recommended basement waterproofing solutions tailored to her needs, including interior drainage, a sump pump, a dehumidifier, and a wall vapor barrier. An installation crew completed the project in three days. The project cost, warranties covering the products and repairs, and keeping the basement permanently dry were all important considerations for the homeowner. She was able to check all these boxes and then some with Groundworks’ help. The owner plans to live in the house for many years, and she can now enjoy a safer and healthier home.

Other Reviews for Our Basement Waterproofing Near You

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I had the pleasure of meeting Ed when he came to investigate some water I had come in the basement. I can't say enough about how…

I had the pleasure of meeting Ed when he came to investigate some water I had come in the basement. I can't say enough about how informative, respectful, and understanding he was and his communication was excellent. When I look into doing some projects in the near future, I will definitely be reaching out to him. I definitely recommend Groundworks!

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We recently had Matt, Casey and Chikar do a big job at our home. The young men were efficient and proficient at their work. Always prompt…

We recently had Matt, Casey and Chikar do a big job at our home. The young men were efficient and proficient at their work. Always prompt to arrive and kept in constant communication with us throughout the job. We are very pleased with the results. They were very respectful in their manner. When the job was complete the area was cleaned and put back together.

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Groundworks has been amazing to work with. We had an issue since it was installed and Kris had worked diligently to get it resolved. The…

Groundworks has been amazing to work with. We had an issue since it was installed and Kris had worked diligently to get it resolved. The guys (Brad Troup and Yusuf A.) showed up yesterday and were quick and very professional. They inspected the problem and knew right away how and what to do to solve it. This company will be highly recommended. Thank you

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Aaron Lenker and Corbin Gillichbauer arrived on time, completed the job in the expected number of hours. Multiple sidewalk sections raised…

Aaron Lenker and Corbin Gillichbauer arrived on time, completed the job in the expected number of hours. Multiple sidewalk sections raised back into place, work area cleaned. Handled an unanticipated joint repair very professionally. Very happy with the results!

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Chad was excellent! Very conversant with respect to our problem. He fully explained the processes involved to fix the issue; answered all…

Chad was excellent! Very conversant with respect to our problem. He fully explained the processes involved to fix the issue; answered all questions. And was extremely thorough, friendly, and respectful!

Need Basement Waterproofing for Your Home?

Water infiltration, especially in old homes, creates a domino effect of structural deterioration and health hazards that only accelerate as these century-old buildings age. The unique construction materials and methods used in older properties—such as fieldstone foundations—require specialized approaches that many contractors cannot provide.

At Groundworks, we understand how to blend time-tested waterproofing principles with today’s most advanced moisture control technology. Contact us today to schedule a free basement inspection and discover how our specialized solutions protect your home’s integrity while giving you the dry, safe basement space you need.

Related Resources

Basement Waterproofing FAQs

Basement leaks are caused by water accumulation near the foundation, stemming from drainage issues like improper grading, overflowing gutters, short downspouts, or clogged window wells, resulting in pooling problems. Foundation cracks, porous concrete, and the impact of hydrostatic pressure often worsen basement leaks.

Any amount of water in your basement, whether it’s a few inches, a puddle, or a damp wall, is a warning sign. Water intrusion can lead to mold growth, health issues, damaged belongings, and even foundation deterioration.

Investing in professional repairs is the best approach to fixing a leaking basement. Depending on the source and extent of the leaks, solutions may include interior drainage systems, sump pumps, dehumidifiers, and wall vapor barriers. Groundworks provides tailored solutions to effectively manage and prevent water intrusion in your basement.