Must-Have Basement Waterproofing Materials For Your Upcoming Project

Basement waterproofing is a crucial project you can’t skip – unless you want to deal with water damage and foundation cracks for the rest of your life.

Whilst this project is not the most expensive upgrade you can give your home, it does cost some money if you’ve postponed it for too long.

Most homeowners will want to know how they can help or be fully prepared for the job, so here are some basement waterproofing materials that you can get and make this project flow seamlessly.

Basement Membranes

Basement membranes are an important part of a successful basement waterproofing project. They are thin layers of waterproof material, usually made of plastic, that are applied to the walls and floors of your basement.

Basement membranes create a barrier between the concrete surface and any water entering your basement. This barrier keeps moisture from seeping into the concrete and damaging your foundation.

A basement waterproofing project

Basement Floor Membranes

Basement floor membranes are a specialized type of waterproofing material designed to protect your basement from water damage. They are typically made from polyethylene, rubber, or asphalt and can be applied directly to the concrete surface.

Unlike other waterproofing materials that are used in basement waterproofing projects, floor membranes provide more comprehensive coverage and protection.

Basement floor membranes are also designed to be air-tight, so they can also help reduce the amount of moisture that builds up in your basement.

Membrane Fixing Plugs

Membrane fixing plugs are an essential part of basement waterproofing. They are used to secure the basement membrane to the concrete floor, ensuring that it is tightly sealed and won’t be damaged by moisture seeping in from the surrounding area.

These plugs are typically made out of a strong material such as stainless steel, brass, or plastic, and they come in different shapes, sizes, and lengths to fit any type of membrane.

Waterproof Paint

Waterproof paint is another great material you can use for basement waterproofing projects. This special kind of paint is designed to seal off the basement walls and floors from moisture, keeping water damage at bay.

Waterproof paint is most commonly applied to your basement walls, but it can also be used on the floors to create a barrier between the concrete surface and any water entering your basement.

Using waterproof paint is an inexpensive way to protect your home from water damage and make it last longer.

Basement waterproofing paint

Basement Drainage Systems

Basement drainage systems are an important part of any basement waterproofing project. These systems are designed to redirect and remove excess water from the area, thus preventing flooding and further damage to your home.

They consist of a network of pipes, drains, and other components which collect water from various sources and transport it away from the area.

Basement drainage systems are relatively easy to install and maintain, making them a great option for homeowners who want to protect their basements from water damage. They are also economical for those looking for a more affordable waterproofing solution.

Basement Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are a vital part of any basement waterproofing project. They are used to redirect and remove excess water away from the basement, preventing it from collecting and causing damage. The sump pump is typically installed in a pit or basin at the lowest point of the basement or where water accumulates.

A sump pump is important for keeping your basement dry and preventing flooding. It’s essential to ensure that your sump pump is in good working condition before beginning any waterproofing project, as it can be a costly mistake if you don’t replace the pump when needed.

Cementitious Tanking

Cementitious tanking is a form of basement waterproofing that involves the application of a thick, fluid-applied coating to the walls and floors of basement spaces.

It is designed to create an impermeable barrier between the concrete surface and any water entering your basement. This type of waterproofing material is made from cement-based components and can be applied directly to the concrete surface.

Cementitious tanking is a highly effective waterproofing solution providing long-term water damage protection. It is also relatively easy to install and maintain, making it affordable for those looking for a more permanent basement waterproofing solution.

External Waterproofing

External waterproofing is a type of basement waterproofing that involves applying a waterproof coating or membrane to the outside of your home or building. This type of waterproofing helps to keep water from entering your home through cracks in the foundation, walls, or other exterior surfaces.

External waterproofing systems are designed to be highly durable and are effective at keeping water out of your basement for years to come. They come in various materials, including plastic sheeting, rubber membranes, and spray-on coatings.

External waterproofing is ideal for those looking to protect their home from long-term water damage. However, it can be more expensive than other forms of basement waterproofing and may require professional installation.

ICF Block Waterproofing System

ICF Block Waterproofing System is a type of basement waterproofing that involves the use of insulated concrete forms (ICFs).

ICFs are hollow foam blocks that are filled with concrete and reinforced with steel to create an incredibly strong structure. This makes them ideal for waterproofing basements, as they are able to provide superior protection against water damage.

The ICF blocks are attached to the walls and floor of your basement and then filled with concrete, creating a waterproof barrier.

This type of waterproofing is more expensive than other forms of basement waterproofing, but it provides excellent long-term protection against water damage. It also requires professional installation, making it ideal for those looking for a more permanent solution.

Gas Membranes

Gas membranes are an effective form of basement waterproofing that provide superior protection from water damage. They are made of a flexible yet durable material that is applied directly to the walls and floors of basement spaces. This creates an impermeable barrier between the concrete surface and any water entering your home.

Gas membranes are a great option for those looking to protect their basements from water damage, as they are highly effective at keeping moisture out. They also require minimal maintenance and can provide long-term protection for your home.

However, gas membranes can be more expensive than other forms of basement waterproofing and may require professional installation.

Gas membrane for a basement waterproofing project

Conclusion

So, these are just some of the basement waterproofing materials that we’ll use on your project. Depending on your budget and preferences, we’ll discuss some alternatives and help you choose something that fits your budget and particular needs.

At Home Matters Construction, we’re experts in every aspect of remodeling a basement, including waterproofing it. We provide a complete basement remodeling service for all homeowners in Papillion, and surrounding areas.

If you’d like help transforming your basement into a safe, beautiful space, give us a call today at (402) 661-0910 or request a free quote now!