Hey there! So, you've got a basement and want to keep it nice and dry. Good call! But now you're faced with a choice: do you go for interior or exterior waterproofing? Let's discuss the differences between the two so you can make the best decision for your home.
Interior Waterproofing:
Picture this: you've got water sneaking into your basement and want to kick it out. That's where interior waterproofing comes in. Instead of messing around outside, we're dealing with the problem from the inside.
What's Involved?
We're talking about setting up a fancy drainage system along the inside walls of your basement. It's like a moat, but instead of keeping out knights, it keeps out water! Plus, we might slap on some sealants and coatings to lock that moisture out.
Pros:
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It's Budget-Friendly: Interior waterproofing tends to be easier on the wallet since we're not digging up your yard.
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Less Mess: Because we're working indoors, your lawn and flowerbeds stay safe from construction chaos.
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Fixes Existing Issues: If water's already snuck in, interior waterproofing helps manage it and prevent future flooding.
Cons:
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Doesn't Tackle Root Problems: It's like putting a band-aid on a broken bone. We're handling the water inside but not fixing why it's there in the first place.
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Limited Defense: It keeps things dry indoors but less robust than exterior waterproofing against major water woes.
Exterior Waterproofing:
Now, let's step outside! Exterior waterproofing is like putting on a raincoat for your house. We're stopping water from even thinking about getting cozy with your foundation.
How's It Done?
First, we dig up around your foundation to expose those outer walls. Then, we slap on a waterproof membrane to keep the moisture out. We might even add some drainage systems to steer water away from your precious home.
Pros:
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Nips Problems in the Bud: Exterior waterproofing tackles the root causes, preventing water from reaching your basement walls.
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Total Protection: It's like Fort Knox for your foundation. Exterior waterproofing offers a solid shield against water damage.
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Boosts Property Value: A dry basement is a happy basement that can increase your home's resale value.
Cons:
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Costs More: Going outside means more work and materials, which can hike up the price tag.
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Landscaping Woes: Your yard might take a hit with all the digging, which can be a bummer for your outdoor space.
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Not Always Possible: For some homes or tight spaces, exterior waterproofing might not be feasible.
Making a Choice:
Which way should you go? It all depends on your situation:
How Bad's the Water? If your basement is practically a swimming pool, exterior waterproofing might be your hero.
What's Causing the Problem? If it's all about poor drainage or cracks in your foundation, the exterior is the way to go for a lasting fix.
Have You Got a Tight Budget? Interior waterproofing could be your wallet's best friend.
Are You Worried About Mess? Stick with an interior to keep the construction chaos indoors.
Ultimately, it is a mix of both that saves the day. Whatever you choose, just know there's a solution to keep your basement dry and your home happy. You can find a waterproofing contractor at trustedpros.ca. Talk to the pro to figure out the best fit for you, and soon enough, you'll be saying "so long" to soggy basements for good!
Posted by: TrustedProsSuggested Reading For You
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