Exterior Basement Waterproofing in Cleveland & Akron, OH

When water pools around your foundation, it can find its way into your basement. Cracks, damp walls or floors, and recurring leaks are all signs that moisture may be reaching your foundation from outside. Premier Wall Anchor & Waterproofing provides exterior basement waterproofing throughout Cleveland, Akron, and Northeast Ohio. Here’s how exposing and sealing the outside of the foundation can help us stop water before it damages your home.

Key Takeaways

Northeast Ohio’s clay soil absorbs water, which pushes against foundations and increases hydrostatic pressure.
Exterior waterproofing creates a barrier between groundwater and the foundation wall.
A waterproofing membrane and drainage board help protect the wall after the repair is completed.
Premier Wall Anchor & Waterproofing provides both interior and exterior waterproofing solutions throughout Summit and Cuyahoga counties.

What Is Exterior Waterproofing?

Exterior waterproofing protects the foundation from the outside. The soil next to the home is excavated, so the foundation wall is exposed. Once we can see the wall, our team can address cracks or other problem areas and install a waterproof barrier before we replace the soil.

This approach lets us get to the source of many basement leaks. Instead of removing water after it enters your basement, exterior waterproofing helps keep groundwater from seeping through the foundation wall.

In Northeast Ohio, exterior waterproofing is essential. Clay soil absorbs a large amount of water. After heavy rain or snowmelt, the saturated soil creates hydrostatic pressure against the foundation. Over time, that pressure can force water through cracks and other openings.

We often recommend exterior waterproofing in the following situations:

In some cases, we may suggest interior waterproofing or a combination of both, especially if you get lots of water in your basement after a storm, you have a small yard, or you also need a drainage system.

Our Process: How Exterior Basement Waterproofing Works

Every waterproofing project starts with an inspection. We look for visible water damage, foundation cracks, and other signs that water is getting into your home. Additionally, we will consider drainage and the soil outside your home.

If exterior waterproofing is the right solution, the work often follows these steps:

Excavation and Foundation Exposure

We excavate the soil along the affected foundation wall so the exterior surface is accessible. This allows our team to see areas that are normally hidden below grade and identify cracks or deterioration that may be causing the leak.

We then prepare the wall for waterproofing. If you need any foundation repairs, we do those before we install any waterproofing materials.

Waterproofing Membrane Application

Once the wall is ready, we apply an impermeable waterproofing membrane to the entire length of the exterior foundation. This creates a protective layer that helps prevent groundwater from seeping through the wall and into your basement.

Drainage Board and Backfill

Then we install a drainage or protection board over the waterproofing layer. It protects the membrane during backfilling and helps water move down the outside of the foundation instead of sitting in the soil.

Once the entire system is in place, we carefully backfill the excavated area. We try to do this as quickly and efficiently as possible to avoid disrupting your daily life.

Why Choose Premier Wall Anchor & Waterproofing?

Water in your basement can be caused by multiple problems. A leaking wall may also have cracks or start bowing due to the pressure, which is why it helps to work with a company experienced in both waterproofing and foundation repair.

Premier Wall Anchor & Waterproofing has served Northeast Ohio since 2003. Our fully licensed, bonded, and insured team inspects the problem first and recommends a repair based on your home’s needs and conditions.

We use professional waterproofing systems that keep water away from your home and protect your foundation, and all our work is backed by a transferable lifetime warranty. If we find structural concerns during the inspection, we can address those issues as part of our overall plan.

Stop Water at the Outside of Your Foundation

Recurring basement leaks are a sign that water is finding a way through or around your foundation. Exterior basement waterproofing can provide long-term protection by stopping that water where it reaches your outside wall.

If you have wet basement walls or foundation cracks, we’re here to help. We’re proud to serve homeowners in Cleveland, Akron, Canton, Warren, Stow, and Hudson. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Exterior Basement Waterproofing

How is exterior basement waterproofing different from interior waterproofing?

Exterior waterproofing seals the outside of your foundation, stopping water before it reaches the wall. Interior waterproofing takes care of water after it has already gotten inside. Many homes benefit from a combination of both.

How long does exterior waterproofing take?

Most projects take a few days. However, the exact timeline depends on the length of the wall being treated and how much excavation is required. We’ll give you an exact timeline after we inspect your property.

Will exterior waterproofing disrupt my landscaping?

Excavation is required along the foundation, so nearby landscaping will be affected. However, we restore the grade and backfill the soil once we complete the work.

Is exterior waterproofing worth it if I haven’t had leaks yet?

Yes. Exterior waterproofing works well as a preventive measure. This is especially true in Northeast Ohio, where clay soil and repeated freeze-thaw cycles cause water to build up in the soil.

Can exterior waterproofing fix a wall that’s already cracked or bowed?

Exterior waterproofing addresses water intrusion, not existing damage. If your walls are cracked or bowing, they might need a separate repair, such as crack injection or a wall anchor system.