Interior vs. Exterior Waterproofing: Which Is Better?
When it comes to waterproofing, you might wonder whether interior or exterior solutions are best for your home. Both have their benefits, but understanding the underlying causes of water infiltration and other factors will help determine the right solution for your needs.
This page explains interior and exterior waterproofing solutions to simplify your decision-making process.
The Differences Between Interior and Exterior Waterproofing
Interior and exterior waterproofing methods provide comprehensive protection against water infiltration and damage. Interior methods redirect water that has already entered the basement, while exterior methods prevent water from entering in the first place. Understanding the specifics of each is crucial to gaining complete waterproofing benefits that fit your needs and budget.
How Does Interior Waterproofing Work?
Interior waterproofing involves installing systems inside the basement to remove water and prevent damage. These systems include:
- Basement dehumidifiers prevent and remove air moisture that causes mold and wood rot.
- AquaStop BasementGutter™ interior drainage systems, sometimes called French drains, collect water and direct it to the sump pump for removal.
- Sump pumps direct water away from the home and prevent backup.
- Vapor barriers prevent moisture vapor from passing through basement walls, preventing condensation, mold, and wood rot.
- Waterproof foundation sealants and crack repairs are also implemented as a water-resistant barrier.
The Benefits of Interior Waterproofing Systems
Interior waterproofing provides vital protection against water intrusion and related damage. These systems offer many benefits, including:
- Cost-effective: Interior waterproofing is typically less expensive than exterior methods.
- Minimally Disruptive: Excavation is not necessary during interior waterproofing installation.
- Year-round Installation: Interior systems can be installed year-round regardless of weather conditions.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Interior waterproofing reduces humidity, mold, and mildew, enhancing indoor air quality caused by the stack effect.
- Quick Installation: Interior waterproofing systems usually require only a day or two to install.
- Protected Belongings: Interior waterproofing systems protect belongings from water damage and mold.
- Bonus Living Space: A dry, healthy basement can be finished and used as a living area or other usable space.
- Enhanced Property Value: A dry basement appeals to potential buyers, enhancing property value.
Interior waterproofing systems offer essential protection against water intrusion. However, they require regular maintenance to ensure proper system functioning and clog prevention. Contact a basement waterproofing professional for an inspection to determine which solutions are right for your home. Many waterproofing experts, like Groundworks, offer maintenance service plans to ensure ongoing protection.
The Disadvantages of Interior Waterproofing Systems
Interior waterproofing systems are beneficial, but they do have drawbacks. These disadvantages include:
- Potential Humidity Issues: Interior waterproofing systems may increase humidity levels if not properly installed and maintained by a professional.
- Addresses the Symptoms, Not the Cause: Interior waterproofing complements exterior systems by addressing water after it has entered the basement, rather than preventing it from entering in the first place.
- Requires Maintenance: Regular inspection and cleaning is required to prevent clogs and ensure proper functioning.
- Limited Structural Protection: Interior waterproofing doesn’t protect against exterior flooding and foundation damage.
- Limited Property Value Enhancement: If exterior systems are insufficient, interior waterproofing alone may not fully protect against water damage, potentially affecting property value.
Basement waterproofing professionals ensure that the interior system complements existing exterior solutions, providing comprehensive protection for your home.
How Does Exterior Waterproofing Work?
Exterior waterproofing systems work to prevent basement water infiltration before interior systems need to intervene. Exterior waterproofing components include:
- Gutters and downspouts collect and direct water away from the foundation.
- Downspout extensions extend downspouts further away to prevent pooling.
- French drains collect and redirect groundwater.
- AquaStop YardWell™ exterior discharge line outlets enhance downspout functionality by preventing clogs and overflow and diverting water to an outlet grate.
- Proper yard grading slope directs water away from the foundation.
The Benefits of Exterior Waterproofing Systems
Exterior waterproofing systems provide a first line of defense against water intrusion. The benefits of these systems include:
- Foundation Protection: Exterior waterproofing protects your home’s foundation and structural integrity.
- Reduced Mold and Mildew: Moisture reduction prevents unhealthy mold and mildew.
- Longer-Term Solution: Exterior waterproofing systems provide long-term water management.
- Enhanced Property Value: A dry, healthy foundation increases property value by signifying a well-maintained home.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is protected from the exterior provides invaluable peace of mind.
Exterior waterproofing systems are especially effective for new constructions and homes in high water table areas and heavy rainfall regions. However, these systems are more costly than interior drainage systems and less feasible in certain conditions. Contact a foundation repair expert to determine which waterproofing solutions best suit your home.
The Disadvantages of Exterior Waterproofing Systems
Exterior waterproofing systems are highly beneficial for water management. However, they do come with disadvantages which include:
- High Cost: Exterior waterproofing is more expensive than interior methods.
- Disruption to Landscaping: Landscaping is often disrupted during exterior waterproofing installation.
- Weather Dependent: Exterior waterproofing requires ideal weather for installation.
- Limited Accessibility: Some homes have limited foundation accessibility. Incorrect installation can damage the foundation.
- Time-Consuming: Exterior waterproofing installation requires more time than interior installation.
In severe cases, if hydrostatic pressure is extreme, exterior waterproofing systems may only provide a temporary solution. Remember, exterior and interior waterproofing systems work together to provide complete protection.
Is it Better to Waterproof a Basement From the Inside or Outside?
Interior and exterior waterproofing systems work together to protect against water intrusion, providing complete basement protection. Both systems function independently, redirecting water and preventing flooding. Since every house, yard, and situation is unnique, we recommend you contact a basement waterproofing expert for a free inspection to explore the best options for your home and budget.
What is the Cost of Waterproofing?
Waterproofing costs vary based on many factors, like geographic location, the basement or yard size, severity of water issues, and the specific methods used. You may be tempted to try inexpensive DIY solutions, but don’t. These are temporary fixes that do not provide long-term relief or protection and may actually worsen the problem.
Groundworks’ basement waterproofing professionals provide honest, no-obligation cost estimates so you know what to expect from the start. Here are a few cost facts to consider:
Interior Waterproofing Cost Factors
- Basement size
- Severity of water issues
- Type of materials and systems installed (sump pump, vapor barrier, sealants, etc.)
Exterior Waterproofing Cost Factors
- Foundation size
- Soil conditions
- Excavation depth
- Waterproofing systems installed (membrane, drainage system, etc.)
Contact Groundworks for a thorough foundation inspection and detailed cost estimate. We ensure you receive the highest-quality waterproofing solutions at an honest price. Financing is also available.
Contact Groundworks for Expert Waterproofing Solutions
Interior and exterior waterproofing each have pros and cons, but when installed together, they provide complete foundation protection.
Don’t risk your foundation to another leak, flood, hurricane, or severe weather event. Contact Groundworks today for a free inspection and the long-term peace of mind you deserve. We provide complete home protection, honest estimates, and the highest-quality warrantied installation.
Financing and maintenance plans are available.
Basement Waterproofing FAQs
Basement waterproofing is definitely worth it. It enhances your home’s value and appeals to potential buyers, offering immediate and long-term benefits for your property.
While waterproofing your foundation is not required, it is highly recommended. Waterproofing your basement or encapsulating your crawl space can protect your space from excessive humidity, mold, and pest infestations.
Waterproofing typically is done to the inside of your basement or crawl space, not the outside. Interior waterproofing is longer lasting, and it is much easier to do. If you have a basement foundation, then it is virtually impossible to waterproof it from the outside once it has already been built.
