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

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:

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.
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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.


