Water in your basement can spell trouble. It leads to structural damage, mold growth, and compromised indoor air quality.
Waterproofing the basement effectively prevents these issues and safeguards the integrity of your home’s foundation.
If you are considering basement waterproofing in Nixa, MO, you have to choose between interior vs. exterior waterproofing. Which is more feasible or cost-effective for your property?
The waterproofing experts at Smouse Brothers cover all this and more in this guide. If you need reliable basement waterproofing solutions around the Ozark region, contact us today.
Interior Waterproofing
As the name suggests, interior waterproofing is the process of waterproofing basement walls from the inside. It ensures that water that seeps into the basement is redirected away from entering the home. This method effectively diverts water outwards, making it a less intrusive solution than exterior waterproofing.
Exterior Waterproofing
Exterior basement waterproofing involves removing the soil and dirt surrounding your home’s foundation. After that, a new barrier is created on the outside of the block to prevent the water from seeping through the foundation. Compared to interior basement waterproofing, waterproofing the basement from the outside is a labor-intensive process that requires several tools and machinery.
Interior vs. Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Both interior and exterior basement waterproofing have their unique benefits and drawbacks. Interior waterproofing can only be used to eliminate water that has already accumulated in the basement. As such, it may not be effective in preventing water from getting into the basement. In essence, interior basement waterproofing is considered a counteractive solution when the water has already leaked into the home.
On the other hand, exterior waterproofing, though costly, effectively wards off water from your foundation and home interiors.
Exterior waterproofing is more of a preventive method for keeping the basements dry and warm in the future.
Here is a quick comparison between interior vs exterior basement waterproofing to help you make an informed decision:
- Location of application: The interior waterproofing method involves installing a waterproofing system inside the basement walls. Exterior waterproofing is applied to the outside of the foundation walls. It involves excavation around the house’s perimeter to apply waterproof coatings, membranes, and drainage systems to prevent water from reaching the foundation walls.
- Water management approach: interior waterproofing focuses on managing water that has already penetrated the basement by channeling it away using interior drainage systems like French drains or sump pumps. Exterior waterproofing prevents water from reaching the foundation walls in the first place by creating a barrier outside the walls. This method ensures that water is directed away from the foundation before it can cause any damage.
- Cost and disruption: Generally, interior waterproofing is less expensive than exterior methods. It involves less invasive work since it is applied within the basement, causing minimal disruption to landscaping and structures. Exterior waterproofing tends to be more expensive due to the extensive excavation required around the house’s perimeter.
- Longevity: While effective at managing water already in the basement, waterproofing the basement from the inside doesn’t prevent the exterior pressure from causing cracks and structural issues over time. It might require maintenance and can be less effective against serious external water pressure. Exterior waterproofing offers better long-term protection because it addresses the problem at its source.
If you have further questions about the ideal waterproofing method for your home, the experts at Smouse Bros are here to help. We offer comprehensive interior and exterior basement waterproofing solutions to protect your home from water damage, mold, and structural issues. Contact us today for more information.
Smouse Bros: The Experts in Waterproofing
Suppose you live in an area like the Ozarks, prone to heavy rainfall, snow melts, or snowstorms. In that case, the probability of water entering your basement is high.
When water seeps into the exterior spaces, it causes significant damage to belongings and foundation structures.
At Smouse Bros, we pride ourselves on being the most trusted waterproofing experts across SW Missouri, NW Arkansas. Our team employs cutting-edge techniques to ensure a dry and secure basement space, safeguarding your property from potential water damage.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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