How much does basement waterproofing cost?

Key points

• Basement waterproofing costs an overall average of $3,000–$7,000 for a typical home.

• Costs depend on your basement’s size, type and location, with the cost of interior methods between $500 and $5,000 and exterior methods between $3,000 and $10,000 or so.

• Other costs include sealants ($500–$1,500), excavation and waterproofing ($175 per linear foot) and exterior drainage system installation ($25 per linear foot).

Basement waterproofing costs range from $3,000 to $7,000, according to our experts. Exact costs “vary depending on the size of the basement, the extent of the water damage and the method of waterproofing chosen,” said Kyle Leman, CEO and founder of Crossroads Foundation Repair in Lafayette, Indiana.

Our experts provided us with average prices for basement waterproofing by method, as shown in the table below.

Basement Waterproofing Method	Average Cost
Overall	$5,000
Interior	$2,750
Exterior	$22,500

Water can cause significant problems for your home. Leaks and unchecked moisture encourage mold growth, leading to potential health issues and hundreds or thousands of dollars in mold remediation costs. Water may also enter through basement wall cracks to destroy belongings, flood the basement and damage your home’s structure.

We recommend waterproofing your basement to fix and repair leaks and avoid costly foundation issues in the future.

What is the average basement waterproofing cost?

“On average, basement waterproofing costs around $3,000 to $7,000 for typical homes, but this can vary significantly based on several factors,” said Jerome Bertuglia, owner of Prime Homes in West Hartford, Connecticut.

On average, basement waterproofing costs around $3,000 to $7,000 for typical homes, but this can vary significantly based on several factors.

Jerome Bertuglia

This coincides with the information provided by Leman, who said, “Most homeowners [spend] around $4,429.” Both Bertuglia and Leman added that estimates vary significantly based on the specifics of your home, its size and the extent of damage or work needed.

	Low End	Average	High End
Average basement waterproofing cost	$2,000	$6,000	$10,000

What factors impact basement waterproofing cost?

Basement waterproofing cost estimates depend on “the size of the basement, the type of sealing required (interior or exterior), the type of sealant used (crystalline, epoxy or polymer-based), labor costs, and the location of the basement (e.g., accessibility, soil type),” Leman said.

Size

The size of your basement is one of the most significant factors in how much you’ll spend to waterproof it. “Larger spaces require more materials and labor, increasing costs,” Bertuglia said.

Type of waterproofing

“Interior waterproofing methods, like using waterproofing paint or sealants, generally cost between $500 and $1,500,” said Wyatt Underwood, CEO of Playground Expedition in Los Angeles. “These methods are suitable for minor leaks and moisture issues. In contrast, exterior waterproofing, which involves more labor-intensive methods such as excavation and the installation of exterior membranes, can range from $3,000 to $10,000.”

Bertuglia agreed that exterior waterproofing is more intensive, though he estimated its cost between $15,000 and $30,000. “Interior solutions, like sealant applications and sump pumps, cost between $500 and $5,000,” Bertuglia said.

However, as with other basement waterproofing costs, your total expense depends on the job’s size and complexity. You must also account for the method and solution used to keep out water and moisture, and compare the effectiveness of interior waterproofing methods against exterior approaches.

“Most people assume you can waterproof from the inside. This would be nice, but typically, the pressure from the water is too great for any coating or membrane to hold the moisture back,” said Jeff Neal, project manager for Installing Epoxy Floors in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Effective waterproofing needs to be performed from the outside and this is where the cost increases.

Jeff Neal

Below are the average basement waterproofing costs by method, based on information from our experts. Interior waterproofing methods range from $1.25 to $3.50 per square foot, whereas exterior methods cost an average of $7.50 per square foot.

Type of Waterproofing Method	Waterproofing Method	Average Cost
Interior	Waterproofing paint/coatings	$1.25 per sq. ft.
Interior	Sealants	$3.50 per sq. ft.
Interior	Drainage system and sump pump installation	$75 per linear ft.
Interior	Sump pump installation	$1,500
Exterior	Excavation and waterproofing	$7.50 per sq. ft.
Exterior	Drainage system (French drain)	$25 per linear ft.

Interior waterproofing methods

Interior basement waterproofing costs between $2 and $5 per square foot, said Andriy Boyko, founder of A.O. Handy in New Berlin, Wisconsin. This includes the cost of using interior sealers or sealants to manage and mitigate leaks.

Adding an interior drainage and waterproofing system and sump pump costs between $50 and $100 per linear foot around the perimeter of your basement, with sump pump installation alone costing between $1,000 and $2,000, according to Boyko.

Interior waterproofing methods are generally more affordable than exterior options. While they may not address the root cause of the water issue, they can be a cost-effective solution for managing minor leaks and moisture problems.

Kyle Leman

Exterior waterproofing methods

Exterior basement waterproofing is the most expensive approach because it is more comprehensive than interior waterproofing methods.

“First, you have to excavate the soil around the perimeter to expose the foundation wall — you’ll need to get deep enough so that you can wrap the barrier on the underside of the foundation,” Neal said. “Once you get there, you’ll need to prep the concrete by cleaning it. Then, you’ll need to apply the membrane as specified by the manufacturer.”

In addition to the cost of any exterior sealant, waterproof membrane or vapor barrier, labor and excavation, you may pay for the installation of an exterior drainage system or French drain. This generally costs between $20 and $30 per linear foot, according to Boyko.

While initial costs for exterior methods may appear higher per linear foot, they often provide a more comprehensive solution by addressing foundational issues and improving overall drainage. This holistic approach can mitigate future risks and maintenance expenses.

Kyle Leman

Type of sealant

In total, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for the most economical sealant options or upward of $1,000 for higher-end sealants or waterproofing paints, Bertuglia said.

Pails of 5-gallon basement wall sealants range from about $140 to $350 or more at Home Depot.

Labor

“Labor costs can vary depending on local rates and the complexity of the job,” Underwood said. “For example, exterior waterproofing is usually more expensive due to the extensive excavation work involved, whereas interior methods might be less invasive and cheaper.”

In other words, it’s generally more cost-effective — at least in terms of labor cost — to waterproof your basement before a problem occurs or gets worse.

Condition and type of basement

You may need to pay for additional work and services beyond waterproofing your basement. Boyko estimated the cost of foundation crack repair and injection at $300 to $500 per crack. Repair costs depend on the extent of structural damage, with Boyko estimating the expense at $1,000 to $10,000 or more.

“The type of foundation you have (concrete, block, stone) and its condition (cracked or deteriorated) will impact costs. Repairing cracks or reinforcing weak spots adds to the overall expense,” Boyko said.

Ease of access

Accessibility to your basement and exterior walls has a significant impact on your basement waterproofing cost. “Limited access might require more manual work or special equipment,” Boyko said.

You may need to pay between $100 and $250 per linear foot to excavate your yard, gain access to your foundation and apply a waterproof coating, Boyko said. This is on top of other basement waterproofing costs and methods, including labor, drain installation, and cleanup and restoration.

What other factors impact the cost of basement waterproofing?

Basement waterproofing costs may include additional expenses based on the condition of your home and the best strategy for preventing leaks and moisture buildup. Other costs associated with the process include permitting, cleanup and mold remediation.

Here are some other factors that impact the cost of basement waterproofing:

• Permitting and inspection: The cost of permits and inspections ranges from $100 to $500, according to Boyko. Some municipalities may require dye testing to ensure sanitary connections aren’t tied to the local storm system (which is prohibited by the Clean Water Act), resulting in an additional expense if corrections are needed.
• Cleanup and restoration: This includes the cost of cleaning after waterproofing, as well as the cost of any necessary mold remediation and repair.
• Correcting drainage issues: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing gutters and downspouts, grading lawn to draw water away from the foundation and other landscape improvements.

Costs of these and other services vary depending on where you live and the exact methods used to waterproof your basement.

How much does DIY basement waterproofing cost?

Both Bertuglia and Underwood estimated DIY basement waterproofing costs from $300 to $1,000. However, all of the experts we spoke to agreed that DIY methods are limited in both scope and effectiveness, which means you may still need to hire a professional for a long-term solution.

“Sealing minor cracks in the basement walls with epoxy or polyurethane can be a cost-effective way to prevent water infiltration,” Leman said, adding that “it’s crucial to assess the severity of the issue and consult with a professional if needed.”

DIY sealants might seem like a money-saver, [though] they might not provide a long-term solution. Hiring professionals ensures proper installation and often comes with warranties.

Andriy Boyko

Ensure that any soil surrounding your foundation slopes away from your home and that downspouts are clear of debris and anything that could cause water to pool by the foundation.

In general, DIY basement waterproofing may be worth it as a temporary stopgap measure. However, you should still contact a professional to determine if your basement requires a more permanent solution.

Basement waterproofing vs. dampproofing

Dampproofing costs between $1,500 and $3,000, Underwood said. Though dampproofing costs $500 to $7,000 less than the average cost of basement waterproofing, waterproofing methods are more comprehensive and longer-lasting despite being more expensive, according to Bertuglia.

Dampproofing prevents soil moisture from seeping through or being absorbed by your walls, which may cause mildew, mold and other issues, according to the Concrete Network.

In contrast, basement waterproofing stops moisture and groundwater from entering your basement. This is done by reducing the amount of hydrostatic pressure pushing against your basement walls, which may lead to foundation cracks and leaks, as well as mildew, mold and other concerns.

It’s important to differentiate between waterproofing (preventing water from entering) and damp proofing (controlling moisture). Waterproofing solutions are generally more robust and costly but provide longer-lasting results.

Jerome Bertuglia

The International Residential Code requires dampproofing for foundation walls that retain earth and enclose interior spaces below grade. In areas with high water tables or severe soil-water conditions, walls must be waterproofed instead.

Though you can use DIY dampproofing to protect your foundation and basement walls from moisture, dampproofing isn’t a long-term solution.

How do you save on basement waterproofing costs?

The cost of basement waterproofing can be expensive. The experts we spoke to shared the following money-saving tips.

Prevent water buildup

The most effective way to save on basement waterproofing costs is by adopting a prevention strategy. Leman recommended directing water away from your home using gutters and grading your lawn to prevent standing water from pooling by foundation and basement walls.

Inspect and maintain drainage systems

You can avoid or cut down on basement waterproofing costs by regularly inspecting and maintaining your property and drainage systems, Underwood said. Look for signs such as pooling water near the foundation or in window wells, clogged gutters and weeping tiles, foundation cracks, mold or musty odors.

Ask about financing options

Ask waterproofing companies and contractors about financing options as well. “While this may increase the overall cost due to interest, it can make basement waterproofing more manageable for homeowners on a budget,” Leman said.

Shop around for quotes

Each of the experts we spoke to recommended shopping around for multiple quotes before deciding on a contractor. This can help you “understand local pricing and find the best solution for your basement’s specific needs,” Boyko said.

In addition to price shopping, Bertuglia recommended “considering a combination of interior and exterior methods for a balanced approach.” This can help you find the most cost-effective and efficient solution for waterproofing your basement.

How do you know if your basement needs waterproofing?

Whether you have a crawl space or a finished basement, look for the following signs to identify if your basement needs waterproofing:

• Bad odors: Bad or damp odors indicate the presence of unwanted moisture, rotting or moldy wood and old, stagnant water — all of which can lead to worse issues.
• Efflorescence: Efflorescence is a powder-like residue found on concrete walls or brick, indicating a deposit of salt caused by water seepage.
• Excessive humidity: Excessive or uncomfortable humidity in your basement may indicate a moisture problem caused by a leak, standing groundwater, a failed moisture or vapor barrier, or a lack of ventilation or a dehumidifier.
• Leaking basement windows: A leaking basement window may indicate water buildup in a window well or cracks surrounding the window frame.
• Mold: Mold depends on moisture, which means its presence in your basement may indicate the need for waterproofing. Mold can cause significant structural damage and health concerns.
• Wet basement floors, baseboards or subfloor: Wet flooring, baseboards or subfloors may indicate a leak in your foundation or pipes, which can lead to additional issues if not repaired.

What’s next?

Basement waterproofing prevents moisture and water from damaging your home’s foundation. Waterproofing may repair existing damage before it gets worse (and more expensive to fix). The average cost of basement waterproofing projects runs between $3,000 and $7,000, though there are steps you can take to limit your total expense.

“Investing in good waterproofing protects your home’s foundation and belongings from water damage, potentially saving you money in the long term,” Boyko said. A combination of effective preventative solutions and exterior waterproofing methods is the best approach for preventing and reversing damage to your home and foundation.

We recommend contacting local waterproofing contractors and professionals to evaluate your basement walls and foundation. This will help you find an affordable and efficient method to protect your home’s value and save on future basement waterproofing costs.

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