Stopping Water Before It Reaches the Foundation
Exterior waterproofing is the most thorough way to keep water out of a basement: we excavate the soil around the foundation, apply a waterproof barrier directly to the outside of the wall, and install exterior drainage so water never builds up against the concrete in the first place.
It’s a bigger project than interior drainage — excavation, membrane application, and backfill take real time and equipment — but for the right situation, it’s the definitive fix.
How Exterior Waterproofing Works
Excavation. We dig down to the footing around the affected walls, taking care to protect landscaping, utilities, and structures along the way.
Wall preparation. The foundation wall is cleaned and inspected. Cracks are repaired, and the surface is prepared for the membrane.
Waterproof membrane. A heavy waterproof membrane or coating is applied to the full height of the excavated wall, creating a continuous barrier that water cannot pass through.
Exterior drain tile. Perforated drain pipe is installed at the footing, wrapped and bedded in stone, to carry groundwater away from the foundation.
Backfill and grading. We backfill with proper material, regrade the soil so surface water flows away from the house, and restore the work area.
When Exterior Waterproofing Is the Right Choice
- New construction or major renovation, when the foundation is already exposed
- Severe exterior wall damage that can’t be properly addressed from inside
- Porous or deteriorating block walls where water wicks through the masonry itself
- When interior access is limited — finished basements where interior work would mean tearing out everything
- Grading and drainage problems that need to be corrected at the source
For most existing basements with groundwater seepage, interior drainage is faster and more cost-effective. We’ll tell you honestly which approach fits your situation.
What to Expect During the Project
Exterior waterproofing is construction work, and we’ll be straight with you about that: there will be excavation equipment on your property, the project typically takes several days to a couple of weeks depending on the scope, and we’ll keep you updated at every stage. We protect your landscaping as much as possible, maintain a safe work site, and do a full cleanup when we’re done.
What It Costs
Exterior waterproofing is priced by the linear foot of foundation excavated, plus the condition of the walls and site access. It’s a significant investment — which is why our estimates are free, itemized, and in writing, with no obligation. Call (708) 665-4874 and we’ll inspect your foundation and give you a firm price.
Warranty Options
Warranty options are explained during your free estimate — ask what’s covered before any work begins.
Protecting Your Property
Excavation is heavy work, and we take its impact on your property seriously. Before we dig, we mark utilities, plan the dig path to avoid them, and discuss what will happen to landscaping, walkways, and plantings along the foundation. Topsoil is separated so it can go back on top, and we regrade for proper drainage when the work is done. It’s still a construction project — but a well-managed one, and the result is a foundation protected from the outside in for the long haul.
The Definitive Fix for the Right Foundation
If your foundation needs protection from the outside in, we’re the crew to call. Contact us at (708) 665-4874 for a free exterior waterproofing estimate in Joliet and throughout the southwest Chicago suburbs. Free estimates — no pressure, no obligation.