While it's possible to seal a foundation yourself, it's not recommended, as it's a tricky and labor-intensive job. Foundation sealing is best left to the pros to save yourself time, remove the risk of doing it wrong, and keeping yourself safe.
Foundation waterproofing is not a DIY task and requires a professional. You shouldn't attempt to do your own foundation waterproofing unless you are fully qualified and confident. Foundation waterproofing in new build construction is a skilled job that has a key role to play in a much larger construction project.
While the DIY approach may seem cost-effective and convenient for minor home repairs, foundation issues are not among them. The risks associated with improper foundation repair can lead to more significant, costly problems down the line, including jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.
Most basement leak repairs, regardless of whether they are performed on brick, cement block, or concrete foundations, can be performed from the inside or the outside of the home. If you have a poured concrete foundation, both interior and exterior waterproofing repairs can be effective in preventing a wet basement.
Something like installing dampproofing around the exterior of your foundation would require a lot of digging, which drastically increases labor costs. You'll spend an average of $3,000 on interior waterproofing services, while extensive exterior services will cost an average of $7,000.
Generally, foundation cracks or settling aren't covered by your homeowners policy. Your home's foundation is protected under your policy's dwelling coverage, but only for certain perils/events.
Over the years, The Foundation Works has inspected thousands of homes 70 years or older in Southern California. When it comes to older homes, the roof and the foundation are often focal points of concern.
The cost of foundation repair typically ranges from $2,000–$7,500, with a national average of $4,500. The cost depends on several different factors like home size, accessibility to the foundation, and soil stability.
Sealing the foundation can be an effective way to protect it from moisture damage and other issues that may compromise the structural integrity of your home.
What can I use to waterproof my basement? For minor leaks and moisture, you can use hydraulic cement, silicate concrete sealant, and silicone caulk to fill cracks and gaps. You can apply these products yourself, followed by waterproof paint.
The cement-based coating gives it a rigid layer and is most effective for homes with stable temperatures and simple roof layouts. This approach is one of the most economical options available as it helps you reduce repairs, replacements, and maintenance costs for years to come.
The main advantage of interior waterproofing is it's less expensive and less disruptive than exterior waterproofing. It can be done without excavating the outside of your home, so you won't have to damage your landscaping or dig up your driveway.
You can expect to spend around $5,000 for a foundation waterproofing job, although that price may vary. Sometimes, the fix is relatively easy, and you could end up spending much less.
In summary, waterproof house foundations from the outside involves four steps: excavation, sealing concrete cracks, installing a waterproof membrane, and backfilling. These are large-scale and difficult tasks. That's why you should entrust them to professionals.
Potential Problems With Non-Breathable Walls
Your basement requires a certain level of breathability to ensure its health and longevity. A lack of ventilation can lead to: Moisture Accumulation: Non-breathable walls trap moisture, leading to dampness. This dampness can cause structural damage over time.
Apply a masonry waterproofing product to the walls
Seal/coat the interior of the walls with a suitable masonry waterproof product. When the paint dries, the sealant forms a watertight bond to stop water from seeping through. This is how you can waterproof your basement walls from inside.
Add Duraline
Kimmel swears by this trick to ensure makeup stays put. "Mix a little of Inglot's Duraline into your products to make them instantly waterproof," she says. "Only a drop or two will be needed."