Waterproofing your basement is an ingenious way to minimize water damage and improve your home’s structural integrity. It’s a procedure you’ll require every so often, whether your property was built on reclaimed swampland or atop rocky ground.
When looking for basement waterproofing services, many homeowners often wonder what the project would cost.
There are no standard waterproofing fees. The actual cost will depend on several factors, notably the material used.
Read below as we compare the various waterproofing methods while highlighting other factors affecting basement waterproofing costs.
Identifying a Need for Basement Waterproofing
One of the frequently asked questions by homeowners seeking to waterproof their properties is – what would it cost to waterproof basement?
As already hinted, the actual waterproofing cost depends on several factors. But before we delve into those aspects, it’s imperative to identify a need for basement waterproofing in the first place.
Dampness is the surest indicator of basement water seepage. Depending on the extent of water damage, you may also notice signs of mold growth, stained or discolored patches, and a musty smell in your basement.
Other signs of basement water damage include;
- Peeling of paints or wallpapers
- Surface cracking
- Efflorescence on basement walls
Causes of Basement Water Seepage
While basement water damage presents similar symptoms, the causes of water seepage can vary significantly. Understanding the reasons why water seeps into your basement is crucial to adopting the right waterproofing method.
Cracks in your property’s foundation or walling are the leading causes of basement water seepage. Such cracks could develop over time from gradual wear or immediately due to substandard workmanship.
Drainage issues can also cause water to seep into your house’s basement. Poor drainage is particularly an urban problem and may require the intervention of the local municipality in addition to a home renovation contractor.
Below are other causes of basement water seepage;
- Plumbing leaks or faulty plumbing installations
- Improperly sealed gaps
- Uneven basement floor
- Damaged waterproofing layer
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How Much Does Basement Waterproofing Cost?
Many home renovation contractors cite $30 – $60 as the average cost/m2 of waterproofing basements. But while this is a consensus range for many, it doesn’t take into consideration all the factors that affect basement waterproofing costs.
The preferred waterproofing material is the biggest aspect that basement renovation contractors will consider when preparing a basement waterproofing quote. There are several waterproofing materials to pick from, namely;
1. Cementitious Waterproofing
Cementitious waterproofing involves creating a waterproof barrier using a cement-based coating.
It’s the most affordable option due to cement’s widespread availability. The cost per square meter can start from $30 or even lower.
2. Bituminous Waterproofing
Homeowners who wish to enhance their basement’s durability can opt for bituminous waterproofing.
The bitumen coating provides better water resistance than cement, which explains why this method will cost you more than cementitious waterproofing.
3. Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
Although commonly used for roofs and terraces, liquid waterproofing may also work for some basements.
Note that the membrane required for this procedure is quite costly, and its application requires specialized skills. So, this method is considerably more expensive than cementitious and bituminous waterproofing.
4. Acrylic Waterproofing
Acrylics are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. If you prefer this material for your basement, be prepared to spend a significant amount compared to all the other waterproofing methods.
Plan with $60 per square meter or even higher. The equalizer is that acrylics blend aesthetics and durability.
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Other Factors That Affect Basement Waterproofing Cost
1. Size
As hinted, the average basement waterproofing cost per square meter is $30- $60. Expect the cost to increase proportionally to the total area that requires waterproofing.
A larger area means you’ll need to purchase more waterproofing materials, which in turn means higher labor charges.
The good news is that water usually seeps into basements through specific areas. Unless the property has undergone severe deterioration, the entire surface will unlikely require waterproofing.
2. Interior versus Exterior Waterproofing
Does your basement need to be waterproofed from the inside or outside? The answer will determine the actual waterproofing cost.
Exterior basement waterproofing is generally costlier than interior waterproofing.
That’s understandable, considering the outer surface is directly exposed to the elements. Therefore, a contractor would need to apply a thicker waterproofing layer.
3. Location
Your property’s location will also determine how much you pay to get your basement waterproofed. That’s especially if the nearest basement repair contractor is located several miles away, where they may factor in transportation expenses into their final quote.
Fortunately, you can minimize the cost by working with a local home renovation contractor. Just ensure the identified technician is duly qualified and licensed.
Location also relates to accessibility. If a contractor must clear thickets or move earth to get to the problematic areas, as often when waterproofing certain basement exteriors, expect them to charge more for the job.
4. Property’s Age
There are pros and cons to buying an old home.
The biggest problem with older properties is their susceptibility to water damage.
The fact that old homes require a gentler approach makes it even costlier to waterproof their basements.
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The Bottom Line
Numerous factors affect basement waterproofing cost, from the waterproofing material used to the size of the basement and the property’s location. Therefore, it’s important to approach these projects with an open mind.
More importantly, remember to enlist professional help for all your basement waterproofing projects.
