Exterior foundation repair and waterproofing is a critical first step in preventing residential water damage from stormwater runoff. You can keep water out of your home's basement or crawlspace by building a multi-layered barrier between your home's foundation and the soil around it. This way, when a storm dumps too much water in your yard, it will travel around your home instead of ending up in its basement.

The process of repairing and waterproofing your home's foundation includes many steps, including each of the following.

Assessing the Slope of Your Property

The amount of water that collects around your home's foundation will be significantly influenced by the slope of your property. If your property slopes towards your house, water naturally wants to reach the lowest point and will enter your home's crawlspace or basement. You must take steps to divert water from the foundation to keep the water out. This can be accomplished by having a foundation repair contractor install a French drain or a gutter system.

Soil Excavation 

Before applying any waterproofing materials to your home's foundation, the soil around it must be excavated. Once the foundation work is completed, the soil will be set aside and put back in place. Removing the soil provides a clean working surface and makes it easier to apply the necessary materials.

Install a Waterproof Membrane

After excavating the soil, a waterproof membrane is applied to the foundation's outside walls. This creates a physical barrier that prevents water from entering your basement.

Install a Drainage System

A drainage system known as a French drain can be installed in the excavated trench around your home. A French drain is simply a gravel-filled trench with a perforated pipe allowing water drainage. Runoff water is directed into the trench, where it can be carried away from your home's foundation.

Install Insulation Board

For a second layer of foundation waterproofing, an insulation board is installed over the waterproof membrane. The insulation board provides additional protection against water and moisture intrusion. As an added bonus, installing an insulation board will lower your home's energy costs.

Backfill the Trench

Finally, the soil is returned to the trench after the waterproof membrane, drainage system, and insulation board have been installed. This adds stability to your home's foundation and helps to prevent settling.

In conclusion, waterproofing the outside of your home's foundation is a crucial way to protect the foundation from water damage. If you're not sure which method of waterproofing is best for your home, you should talk to a professional foundation contractor. They can look at your home's needs and suggest the best way to fix them. Reach out to a foundation repair company near you to learn more.