Waterproofing vs. Damp Proofing

If you have heard the terms waterproofing and damp proofing, you may be tempted to think they are essentially the same thing. But these two processes are quite a bit different. Damp proofing keeps moisture from the soil out of your home, while waterproofing protects against soil moisture and liquid water. 

Here is what you need to know when deciding which is right for your Niagara area home. 

Damp proofing

Usually, homes in the Niagara area have undergone foundation damp-proofing while they are being constructed to meet building code standards. To damp proof a foundation, hot liquid asphalt is applied to the foundation, followed by a rubber coating that has an insulating panel. This does a fairly good job of keeping out moisture; however, when moisture becomes water, damp proofing is not enough to keep your basement dry. 

Another difference is that damp proofing is only applied to the interior of the foundation, so water can still make it through the exterior of the foundation and cause cracks and other problems. 

Waterproofing

When it comes to keeping water out of your basement, waterproofing is far superior to damp proofing. As the name implies, it will completely prevent water from seeping into your basement. Basement flooding typically happens because of hydrostatic pressure – that is, water rising through the ground and penetrating the basement slab. 

When a foundation is waterproofed, the systems are applied externally to prevent water from seeping through the foundation. 

How is waterproofing done?

Usually, when it comes to wet basements, the problem comes from outside of the home – which is why exterior waterproofing is usually the most effective solution. This generally involves the excavation of the soil around the foundation and then the application of a waterproof sealant to the exterior walls. This sealant should last for the lifetime of the building, so once it is done, you shouldn’t have to worry about having it done again in a few years. 

Which is better? 

While damp proofing is useful in certain areas for preventing musty basements, it is not a replacement for genuine waterproofing. Especially in areas that have a higher water table, damp proofing alone simply will not perform. 

If you live in an area that is not prone to a lot of water and flooding, then damp proofing may be sufficient; however, if your home is in an area where it is at risk of serious water intrusion, then waterproofing is highly recommended. 

Contact Foundation Fix today.

Are you interested in learning more about whether damp proofing or waterproofing is right for your Niagara area home? If so, give us a call today to schedule a consultation.