What Are The Costs Of Waterproofing The House In 2022? Basement, Foundation, Terrace, Walls.

Reviewed by Pavel Buyeu
Updated: 09/20/2023

What are the costs of waterproofing the house?

External waterproofing

When it is necessary to apply a waterproofing product to the home, it is advisable to consult a professional. Thanks to a consultation, you will be able to get a better idea and make the most suitable decisions to protect the home. For example, a professional might recommend additional security measures for the home's foundation. Despite having a cavity, it is vital to avoid water infiltration. Due to accessibility problems for this type of construction work, waterproofing costs are between $ 500 and $ 9,000. This price guide will help you understand the difference between the various types of waterproofing available. You will also learn the differences between the various waterproofing costs and the advantages and disadvantages of materials such as concrete and waterproofing membrane.

PLEASE NOTE that prices may vary due to the type of work to be performed, the quality of its execution, and the region in which you are located.

Cement-based waterproofing

A cement-based waterproofing is a perfect way to combat water infiltration. This coating is very thick and can be applied directly to the external walls of the house. Anyone with some experience will be able to get the job done. A twenty-liter bucket of dry mix costs around $ 40 and will cover 100 square feet of foundation. There are also labor costs and any repairs to cracks in the walls, then the costs of concrete waterproofing will be between $ 600 and $ 1,200, depending on the type of house. However, concrete waterproofing is the least easy option; the concrete solidifies completely, therefore movements or cracks could compromise its effectiveness. As a result, the foundation lay on sandy ground.

Waterproofing sheath for foundations

The costs of the waterproofing membrane are higher than that of concrete. If factors such as drainage and installation of the waterproofing membrane are also included, the waterproofing costs can be as high as $ 15,000. It must also be said that this solution could be the most efficient to avoid water infiltration inside the home. This process includes applying the waterproofing membrane to the outer wall. These membranes consist of rubber asphalt laminated with a polyethylene waterproofing film. Since the material is inflexible, it will need to be installed perfectly. It will therefore be necessary to contact a professional.

External drainage

Another option is to remove the water before any infiltrations are created inside the wall. The cost to install a drainage system outside the home costs between $ 75 and $ 200, depending on accessibility and the type of excavation needed. The drain pipes release the water that could otherwise flow into the wall and create infiltrations. When the climate of the place where the house is located is humid, then the system will also work well with concrete foundations and cavities. If installed meticulously, using the right materials, this solution may be the best and is also perfect in combination with cement-based waterproofing and waterproofing membranes.

Cement-based waterproofing and foundation lining

The same type of cladding mentioned above can also be used for the interior walls of the house. A thick, permanent coating can help isolate surfaces from water and prevent infiltration. Waterproofing costs tend not to change, and labor costs may be lower given the absence of the need for excavation. Cement-based waterproofing costs for interiors range from $ 500 to $ 1,000. An acrylic or epoxy blend offers a long-lasting solution that will improve the life of concrete floors and walls that have already been waterproofed. If this work is managed by professionals, the waterproofing costs per square meter will be between $ 3 and $ 12, depending on the location, type of product, and necessary repairs.

Liquid waterproofers: sodium silicate and concrete

The big difference between concrete and silicate is that a liquid waterproofer penetrates inside the walls to which it is applied. Sodium silicate is also used as an accelerator, since, thanks to its chemical properties, it allows concrete to dry faster. The wall will look the same as it did when work began.

Silicates are a great option as they allow the walls to breathe, without trapping moisture inside them. Furthermore, these materials are relatively inexpensive. The waterproofing costs per 10 square feet are around $ 0.15 and $ 0.25. In addition, labor and application costs must also be added. In this case, the waterproofing cost will be around $ 3 and $ 9 per square meter.

Leaks and cracks in the foundation

Sometimes, the simplest solution is also the best. Cracks and holes in foundations are often caused by wear and tear and, over time, can cause severe damage, especially moisture-related.

Internal drainage

Obviously, in addition to good waterproofing, it is good to protect the house from the water and any infiltrations. Domestic drainage systems range from drainage pipes to vertical axis pumps and costs are between $ 700 and $ 2,600 in most cases.

Dangers related to water in the house

Foundation waterproofing is a crucial element inside the home. Without proper waterproofing, the damage caused by water infiltration could be considerable.

Although waterproofing costs are often high, it is necessary to invest in this type of work to prevent the onset of problems that could cause damage and raise costs even more.

It is of fundamental importance to contact a qualified professional to understand how to improve the waterproofing of the home. Even if no damage is present inside the house, it is very useful to contact someone who has proven experience in the sector and knows how to give the most suitable advice.

Waterproofing of the terrace

A wooden terrace needs to be carefully protected from water, so the waterproofing of the terrace must take place regularly, to be sure that it does not deteriorate. In some types of climates, it may be necessary to apply to waterproof every season. Applying a primer will help keep the terrace intact. The waterproofing of the terrace must be repeated regularly, so as not to damage the surface, to keep the wood always shiny and shiny, and to prevent it from fading or getting damaged. Terrace waterproofing costs are influenced by several factors analyzed below.

Waterproofing of the terrace or impregnating?

When choosing between an impregnator and terrace waterproofing, professionals in this sector will always advise not to apply an impregnator on very sun-exposed terraces, as they will be more prone to cracking and peeling. If you decide to apply the impregnating agent to the terrace floor, you must be sure to take care of the space at least once every two years, as it will be subject to constant solar action. The costs to apply the primer or waterproofing are.

When deciding to start waterproofing the terrace, it is of fundamental importance to know what the differences are with the impregnating agent. Waterproofing a terrace protects it from moisture, which could cause mold and mildew as applying the primer change the original color of the wood. Some impregnants are quite effective against moisture, but not as effective as a waterproofer.

These materials can be applied with a spatula, roller, or sponge. Each has different properties and methods of use, so it is good to be careful and follow the supplier's advice. Since it will not always be possible where the impregnated paint (often transparent) has been applied, it will be good to have a drafting plan, to be sure that you have not forgotten any space. The only visible impregnants are the primers. Most will need two passes to penetrate the surface perfectly and ensure complete protection.

You will need to clean the surface thoroughly before applying the waterproofing or paint.

  • It is good to observe some rules for surface preparation, such as passing a high-quality oxygen-based whitener mixed with hot water on the.
  • The space is then scrubbed thoroughly with a long-handled broom, to remove mold, algae, or leaf remnants.
  • The wood will then be checked for any damage, mold, or rot that may have appeared after the last treatment.
  • It is good to take advantage of this construction work to replace the damaged panels.
  • Once dry, waterproofing can be applied to the terrace.

Dangers related to water in the house

Foundation waterproofing is of crucial importance inside the home, no matter what the other surrounding elements are. Without proper waterproofing, water damage and infiltration could be significant.

Preventing this type of damage is a good investment, but it prevents problems such as infiltrations and losses from arising that could have even higher consequences and costs.

It is of fundamental importance to contact a qualified professional to understand how to improve the waterproofing of the home. Even if no damage is present inside the house, it is very useful to contact someone who has proven experience in the sector and knows how to give the most suitable advice.