Basement Waterproofing


On note on terminology

‘Waterproofing’ is a technical term in the waterproofing industry, and most of what is called ‘basement waterproofing’ is really just an interior drainage system - the installation of a footing drain along the interior perimeter of the basement. We’ll continue to use the term ‘basement waterproofing’, but it’s more for SEO than anything else.

Interior Basement Drainage vs. Exterior Foundation Waterproofing

We offer both exterior foundation waterproofing and interior basement drainage installations. They each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Interior basement waterproofing can be much less expensive, particularly if the area around the house has mature landscaping and extensive concrete work.

But a proper waterproofing system is what gets installed on new construction, and is warranted for longer than our interior drains. And of course it keeps rain and groundwater on the outside of the house where it belongs. For more information on our foundation waterproofing systems, go to our foundation waterproofing page.

But what is most important is keeping your basement dry, with a plan that is right for your property and budget. Unlike our competitors, Kitsap Drainage and Waterproofing does not have just one type of thing we do - that we sell to everyone - regardless of whether or not it’s needed. Give us a call to schedule a free site inspection to discuss the water issues on your property.

Waterproofing, water management, & damp proofing

The system described on our foundation waterproofing page is a waterproofing system. It is applied on the exterior of the building and engineered to keep water out. Damp proofing is often applied on the exterior of the foundation as well, and typically consists of a liquid applied membrane or trowlable grout and resists water.

Once the water has passed the exterior building envelope, we typically consider all of the work done to be in the water management category. Typically this involves drainage pathways, collection routes, and discharge points. Often, damp proofing the interior is part of the water management strategy as well.

Modern Exterior Waterproofing

Modern residential waterproofing involves the application of a waterproofing membrane, a drainage mat to reduce hydrostatic pressure, and a properly built drainage system at the footing. The drainage mat is designed to reduce hydrostatic pressure. It provides an air gap which holds back the earth and allows water to seep onto the drainage mat, which channels it down to the footing drains. It is guaranteed to keep your basement dry.

Interior Water Management

Typical services include:

  • Interior perimeter drains

  • Slab replacement

  • Crack injection

  • Pipe penetrations

  • Sump Pump Installations

  • Concrete Sealing

  • Joint Caulking

  • Liquid damp proofing applications

Different Solutions for Different Jobs

We do not sell one type of system, or install only one type of solution. Keep this in mind when competitors push thier one system. Water flows in unpredictable ways, and each foundation and the soil composition surrounding it is unique.

Site Inspections

Contact Kitsap Drainage and Waterproofing for a free site inspection. We design custom a water management plan for each property, and are here to answer any questions you might have.