This blog discusses the basics of interior waterproofing systems.
What is Interior Waterproofing?
Interior waterproofing is the process of waterproofing a foundation from the inside of a home or structure. Interior waterproofing is a great method to keep your basement dry.
Do I need to waterproof my Toronto Home?
Foundation Waterproofing is very important in maintaining a dry and mould-free basement. If the water surrounding your Toronto home doesn't have anywhere to go it will begin to seep through your basement walls and floors. Exterior groundwater applies hydrostatic pressure against your foundation walls and basement floor, meaning if the water doesn’t have an escape route, it will begin to pool and seep through your foundation cracks.
Waterproofing your basement will allow you to live in a dry, mould, and leak-free home. It allows for livable and functional space, and exterior waterproofing can even maintain the foundation strength of your home.
How does interior waterproofing work?
Interior waterproofing is also known as a weeping tile system. Interior waterproofing does not technically waterproof a basement, but instead, it effectively controls seeping water and channels it away from your foundation. We like to refer to interior waterproofing as a water management system.
The interior waterproofing system allows
water to safely seep through the cracks in your foundation walls. Once the water enters your home it is directed down your waterproofing membrane and into your weeping tiles. Your weeping tile system will collect and direct the intruding water to a sump pump. The sump pump will then push that water to a safe space outside of your home (this water will then be removed via storm drain, dry well, drainage ditch, or a low-lying area of the property).
What is the interior waterproofing installation process?
1. Access the bare foundation wall.
2. Open the floor slabs to create a weeping tile channel (The channel is dug approximately 18 inches from the footings of your home).
3. Install and secure the weeping tile system.
4. Apply the waterproofing membrane along the interior of the foundation walls and footings.
5. Backfill with gravel and re-lay concrete above your weeping tile channel.
6. Clean up the job site.
Please visit Nusites interior waterproofing page for more details about our interior process.
How long does it take to install an interior waterproofing system (Weeping Tile System)
The average interior waterproofing process can take anywhere between one to ten days. The job length may be affected by; the condition of the foundation wall, the foundation wall material (concrete block, poured concrete, etc), site access, foundation wall length, foundation wall height, floor and wall excavation needs, sump pump systems, and more.
How much does interior waterproofing cost?
As waterproofing professionals that have completed over 50 million square feet of waterproofing applications throughout Central, Ontario, we will tell you that it is very hard to price a waterproofing job, without seeing the job site. Pictures can be used to help determine an accurate price, however, there are a lot of factors that can affect the cost of a waterproofing job.
Factors that affect the cost of interior waterproofing include; the condition of the foundation wall, the foundation wall material (concrete block, poured concrete, etc), basement floor materials, site access, foundation wall length, foundation wall height, excavation needs, sump pump systems, and more.
The cost of interior waterproofing ranges from $65 to $100 per linear foot. This price is affected by the site conditions listed above.
Many Toronto homeowners aren't aware that they may be eligible to receive a rebate for waterproofing services. The City of Toronto offers a Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy program to help homeowners maintain a safe and dry foundation. The program offers up to $3,400 and is available to owners of single-family, duplex, and triplex residential homes.
Are sump pumps worth it?
Yes, they are! Sump Pumps are the last line of defences for a basement. Sump pumps can be programmed to automatically start when the water in the basin or pit reaches a specific volume (this is the most economical way to maintain a sump pump). We also recommend installing a back-up battery to keep your sump pump functioning during power outages.
Please visit Nusites sump pump page for more information about sump pumps.
Nusite Tips
A good waterproofing company will examine your crawl space/basement to determine the root of the problem! By doing this, they can then suggest the best solution for your home.
About Nusite
Nusite Contractors Ltd. has been proudly serving GTA homeowners for over 30 years! We are a family business and take pride in customer service and professional work. You can contact us here to schedule a free consultation and written estimate! We would be happy to help!
Looking for basement waterproofing services in Toronto? Click here to see if Nusite provides services in your city!