Depending on the issue’s severity, the waterproofing cost can vary greatly. For example, a finished basement that needs to be stripped and re-finished will likely add to costs.

A drain tile system is one of the most effective ways to waterproof a basement. This involves French drains or weeping tiles that direct water into a pipe to be pumped away from the home. This solution can cost up to $15,000 for installation.

Cost of Materials

The cost of materials for basement waterproofing depends on the method used and how extensive the work will be. A basic excavation, for example, can cost between $50 and $200 per cubic yard of dirt. These costs will be included in the overall project price.

The lowest-cost option is to inject polyurethane into leaking cracks in the foundation walls. This is best for poured concrete foundations; cinderblock or block construction isn’t suitable for this type of repair.

Another low-cost option is to use a bentonite clay waterproofing system. It’s similar to regular interior paint but thicker, protecting basement walls from liquid water and water vapor. This type of basement coating usually costs between $3 and $5 per square foot, including labor to apply it.

Moderate-cost basement waterproofing involves more extensive crack repair and an interior French drain system. This can cost between $2,000 and $6,000. This option is good for homes with a moisture problem but no active leaks.

A major waterproofing project requires excavating the basement to install a membrane on the foundation wall and an exterior French drain. This is the most expensive option, but it should resolve all existing issues and significantly reduce future exposure to water and moisture. A complete exterior and interior waterproofing solution can cost between $9,000 and $15,000 for the average home.

Cost of Labor

An essential component of the whole cost is the cost of employing waterproofing contractors in Staten Island who are qualified to install the basement waterproofing system. There are several different ways to go about this, and the method will significantly impact the price of the job.

One low-budget option is to coat the interior walls of your basement with a sealant such as acrylic or epoxy. This will protect the walls from moisture and can be done daily for $3 to $7 per square foot. These prices include the cost of the materials and the labor needed to apply them.

Other options for waterproofing include a French drain, which involves an exterior trench filled with gravel or crushed rock that surrounds the foundation and carries water away. This can deal with heavy water infiltration and high water tables but is vulnerable to clogging from soil and roots. It also may require excavation, which can add to the project’s cost.

A concrete membrane is another exterior solution that separates the basement walls from the soil. This can prevent water from seeping through the concrete, but it won’t do anything to address hydrostatic pressure or cracks in the walls.

You can add an interior drainage system for a more comprehensive waterproofing solution. This will route water from a sump pump through drain tiles and into an area where it can be pumped out of the home. The system must be inspected regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly.

Cost of Installation

There are several factors that determine how much it will cost to have your basement waterproofed. For example, the size of your basement plays a major role since it will require more material and labor to be sealed than a smaller basement. Other factors include the method of sealing, which solutions are chosen, and if a vapor barrier is installed.

One of the most cost-effective preventive solutions is to install a basement membrane. The membranes are not expensive, but the adhesives and labor involved in applying them will add to the overall cost. Another option is to use a waterproof sealant, usually spread over existing wall paint but can be painted over afterward. These sealants won’t form a tight bond with wide cracks. However, so many foundation contractors will use them with crack sealant for full protection from moisture.

For homes with serious water seepage problems, a contractor may recommend excavating and installing weeping or drain tiles. This more extensive solution involves digging trenches along the basement walls, filling them with gravel and perforated drain tile, and installing a sump pit for water collection. Plastic panels are placed over the trenches to direct the water downward and away from the home. This system’s price can vary wildly and run into thousands of dollars.

Cost of Repairs

Whether waterproofing is needed on the inside or outside of your basement, many factors affect the cost. Some methods are more expensive to install and require professional excavation, an added expense for any homeowner. Also, the products you choose to use might impact the cost of your project.

Depending on the source of your water problems, it might be necessary to fix other issues before waterproofing your basement. This could include fixing cracks, regrading the landscaping to direct water away from your home and clearing debris such as leaves out of window wells that cause moisture damage to basement windows.

It’s important to understand that repairing water damage can be one of the most costly repairs to your home. So, it’s best to take the time to find and treat any issues as they arise to prevent the damage from spreading and require even more expensive repair work.

Some exterior waterproofing methods, like laying an external membrane or installing a drainage system on the footer, require excavation to reach your foundation walls. This can add up quickly when you factor in the cost of hiring a contractor to dig and purchase or rent equipment. Additionally, this type of work can only be done when the weather is suitable.