How Much Does Basement Waterproofing Cost?​

Last Updated on October 9, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Wet, damp, or leaky basements are a common and frustrating problem for homeowners. Water intrusion through the foundation can lead to mold, mildew, structural issues, and thousands in damage if left unaddressed.

This guide examines the various factors affecting basement waterproofing costs, breaks down pricing for different solutions, and provides actionable tips to help you budget and prepare for this important home project.

How Much Does Basement Waterproofing Cost?​

Basement waterproofing costs anywhere between $500 and $10,000+, depending on the waterproofing method, the size of the basement, and several other important factors:

Interior Sealants and Coatings

Cost Range: $500 – $3,500

Involves application of water-resistant materials inside the basement to seal cracks and prevent moisture penetration. Common techniques include:

• Cement-based sealants – Applied by brush or roller to walls and floor. Cost per gallon: $50-$150.
• Epoxy injection – Pressurized injection to fill cracks and voids. Kit cost: $750-$1,500.
• Polyurethane coatings – Used on walls and floors to create water barrier. Cost per gallon: $50-$120.

Best for small leaks, moderate dampness, or humidity control.

Exterior Foundation Waterproofing

Cost Range: $3,000 – $10,000+

Working outside the foundation walls to correct drainage issues and prevent water from entering the basement. Methods include:

• Excavation – Front end loader required to access foundation. Cost: $1,500-$5,000.
• Waterproof membrane – Applied to exterior walls before backfilling. Cost per linear foot: $15-$25.
• Drain tile – Gravel drainage trench with perforated pipe. Cost per linear foot: $40-$60.
• Backfill – Gravel and soil to cover system. Cost per load: $300-$600.

Provides permanent solution but requires major excavation.

French Drain and Sump Pump Combo

Typical Cost Range: $2,000-$6,000

• French Drain – Gravel trench with perforated pipe around perimeter. $2,000-$4,000
• Sump Pump – Collects water pooling under basement floor and pumps it out. $1,000-$3,000

Excellent option for preventing seasonal flooding.

Encapsulating Crawl Space

Average Cost Range: $1,500-$7,000

• Vapor barrier – Plastic sheeting applied underneath. $800-$2,000
• Dehumidifier – Reduces humidity and condensation. $500-$1,500
• Ventilation – Improves air flow. $500-$1,000

Ideal if moisture is isolated in the crawlspace area.

Table of Cost Ranges by Project Type

Project	Typical Cost Range
Interior Sealants	$500 – $3,500
Exterior Waterproofing	$3,000 – $10,000+
Sump Pump	$500 – $1,500
French Drain	$1,500 – $3,000
Crawl Space Encapsulation	$1,500 – $5,000

According to Angi, the average cost for basement waterproofing is around $5,202, with most homeowners spending between $2,457 and $8,175. Minor fixes, such as sealing foundation cracks, can cost as little as $600, while complete waterproofing systems may reach up to $15,000.

As reported by Bob Vila, typical costs for basement waterproofing range from $2,300 to $7,575, with a national average of about $4,920. The article emphasizes that the total cost can depend on various factors such as the size of the basement and whether interior or exterior sealing is used.

According to Aquatech Waterproofing, the cost for waterproofing typically falls between $5 and $10 per square foot for interior systems and can be higher for external methods. They note that internal waterproofing may range from $50 to $100 per linear foot, while external waterproofing can run between $150 and $250 per linear foot.

In an overview by U.S. Waterproofing, they indicate that interior drain tile systems average between $4,000 and $12,000. The price varies based on system length and additional components like sump pumps.

Lastly, according to an article by AMC911, homeowners can expect to spend around $5,000 for a foundation waterproofing job. The article highlights that costs may vary based on specific needs and complexities involved in each project.

Factors Impacting the Cost

Multiple variables influence the investment needed to effectively waterproof your basement:

Size of the Basement

The larger the square footage requiring treatment, the higher the overall project costs.

• Cost per square foot typically ranges $3-$10 on average, depending on materials and methods used.
• Small basement (600-800 sq ft) – Total cost $1,500-$5,000
• Medium basement (800-1,200 sq ft) – Total cost $3,000-$8,000
• Large basement (1,200-2,000+ sq ft) – Total cost $5,000-$15,000

Larger basements require more supplies, longer labor timelines, and could need heavy equipment for excavation, all adding costs.

Severity of Water Damage and Leaks

Homes with extensive water stains, large cracks in foundation walls, chronic seepage issues, or substantial leakage will require more complex waterproofing fixes at a greater cost.

• Minor dampness or small cracks – $500-$2,000 range
• Moderate water intrusion – $2,000-$5,000 range
• Severe damage or heavy leaks – $5,000-$15,000+ range

Type of Waterproofing Method Used

The approach chosen depends on factors like budget, damage extent, and home specifics. But generally:

• Interior sealants and localized repairs tend to be less expensive ($500-$3,000).
• Exterior waterproofing requires excavation and is more costly ($3,000-$10,000).

Local Labor and Installation Costs

Contractor rates vary significantly based on location, demand, the complexity of the job, and local material costs.

• Typical hourly labor rate range: $50-$100 per hour
• Simple jobs under $2,000 may range $35-$75 per hour
• Complex engineering projects over $10,000 can range $65-$125 per hour

Materials and Specialized Systems

Integrating additional equipment like sump pumps, drainage systems, dehumidifiers or ventilation adds $1,000-$5,000 typically.

• Basic DIY sealants and compounds – $100-$500
• Advanced pumps, drains, and barriers – $1,500-$5,000

Average Costs by Basement Size

Here are typical price ranges for 3 common basement sizes:

Small Basement (600-800 sq ft)

Total Cost Range: $1,500-$5,000

A smaller basement may only need internal sealing like crack repairs and application of waterproofing compounds, based on the moisture levels.

Medium Basement (800-1,200 sq ft)

Total Cost Range: $3,000-$8,000

Mid-sized basements often benefit from a combination of interior patching and sealing, a sump pump system, and minor exterior grading or drainage improvements.

Large Basement (1,200-2,000+ sq ft)

Total Cost Range: $5,000-$15,000+

For a larger basement with substantial flooding or water issues, full professional exterior waterproofing is typically recommended, involving excavation, drainage membranes, and multiple sump pumps.

Interior vs. Exterior Waterproofing Solutions

In considering interior sealants versus exterior waterproofing, here are the main pros and cons:

Interior Waterproofing

Cost Range: $500-$3,500

Pros:

• Less invasive and cheaper option
• Good for minor dampness or small leaks
• Focus on controlling water once inside

Cons:

• Doesn’t resolve grading and drainage issues
• Sealants may need frequent reapplication
• Interior moisture can still cause mold growth

You might also like our articles on the cost of crawl space encapsulation, attic insulation, or flood insurance.

Exterior Waterproofing

Cost Range: $3,000-$10,000

Pros:

• Stops water from entering permanently
• Handles hydrostatic pressure
• Maintains home’s value and structure

Cons:

• Major excavation required
• Much higher upfront cost
• Disturbs landscaping around foundation

In general, exterior waterproofing provides the most comprehensive long-term solution but at a greater expense.

DIY vs Professional Waterproofing

Professional Waterproofing

Average Cost Range: $3,000-$10,000

Pros:

• Experienced assessment of root causes
• Higher quality materials and proper installation
• Multi-step solutions and warranties
• Advanced techniques like drainage and pumping

Cons:

• Expensive, especially for large foundations
• Extensive excavation is disruptive

DIY Waterproofing

Typical Cost Range: $200-$1,500 in materials

Pros:

• Affordable waterproofing compounds, sealants and epoxy kits
• Good option for small projects and accessible areas

Cons:

• Easy to misdiagnose issues
• Large leaks require specialist equipment and skills
• No accountability or warranties

DIY can work for minor sealing but major water intrusion issues usually require professional expertise.

Additional Cost Factors

• Foundation Crack Repairs – $200-$2,000
• Mold Remediation – $500-$3,000
• Excavation and Backfill – $1,500-$5,000
• Vapor Barriers – $800-$1,500
• Insulation – $1,000-$1,500
• Dehumidifier – $500-$1,500
• Sump Pump – $500-$1,500
• French Drain – $1,500-$3,000

Real World Cost Examples

To understand real costs, here are 3 examples of common basement waterproofing projects:

Example 1: Minor Interior Sealant for 700 sq ft Basement

• Small moisture seepage
• Applied waterproofing sealant to walls
• Patched several small cracks
• Total Cost: $1,200

Example 2: Exterior Waterproofing of 1,200 sq ft Basement

• Chronic wall leaks
• Excavated foundation walls
• Installed drainage membrane, gravel, sump pump
• Total Cost: $9,500

Example 3: Crawl Space Encapsulation (400 sq ft)

• High humidity levels in crawl space
• Added polyethylene vapor barriers
• Installed dehumidifier and ventilation
• Total Cost: $2,300

Being aware of the potential scope and costs of common waterproofing projects helps set realistic budgets.

How to Reduce Basement Waterproofing Costs

Here are some top tips for controlling expenses on your basement waterproofing project:

• Get 2-3 quotes from contractors to compare options and pricing.
• Address minor leaks early before major damage occurs.
• Do smaller repairs and sealing yourself whenever feasible.
• Consider interior solutions first for minor dampness before excavating.
• Add insulation, vapor barriers, dehumidifiers and ventilation to help control humidity for less.
• Visit the EPA’s EnergyStar website for possible rebates on dehumidifiers.

Expert Insights

We consulted waterproofing experts for their top tips on keeping basement projects affordable while still getting lasting results:

Carefully Diagnose Issues First

“Doing a thorough evaluation of where water is entering from and why is crucial to choosing the right solution at the best price. Correctly diagnosing underlying problems guides cost-effective technique selection.” – Ed Brighton, Brighton Waterproofing Solutions

Focus on Grading, Drainage, and Gutters

“Making sure rainwater and snowmelt flows away from the foundation properly through grading and downspouts is key. Fixing these exterior issues resolves many basement leaks without major sealing costs.” – Ryan Ferrera, DryPro Waterproofing

Leverage Interior Solutions First When Feasible

“For minor dampness and seepage, quality interior sealants and coatings often provide an economical solution, avoiding the major costs of full exterior excavation.” – Tim Shaw, Shoreline Waterproofing

Consider Hybrid Approaches

“In many cases, a combination of limited exterior drainage improvements plus interior sealing provides a comprehensive solution at a moderate overall cost.” – Alexis Ward, Ward Waterproofing

Invest in Dehumidifiers

“Adding dehumidification systems and ventilation allows you to control interior humidity at the source, reducing condensation and water concerns cost-effectively.” – James Riley, Dry Basements LLC

Careful prep work, an informed diagnosis, and a hybrid waterproofing approach can help maximize results while controlling overall costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Costs

How much does it cost to waterproof a 1000 sq ft basement?

For a 1,000 square foot basement, plan on $3,000 to $6,000 on average depending on whether interior or exterior sealing is required. Get a professional assessment.

Does exterior waterproofing last longer?

Yes, exterior waterproofing provides permanent solutions by fixing grading, drainage and foundation issues. It also carries a longer warranty and will outlast interior options.

Should I DIY or hire a contractor?

Consider DIY for small projects under $1,500. For major repairs or substantial water intrusion, hiring a pro is strongly advised.

What other costs might I incur?

Factor in things like sump pumps, humidity control, drainage systems, crack repair, excavation backfill, mold remediation and possible replacements which can each add $500-$5,000.

How long does basement waterproofing last?

With high quality materials and proper installation, interior and exterior solutions can last 20-30 years or longer. Look for long contractor warranties.

Final Words

While basement waterproofing carries significant upfront costs ranging $3,000-$15,000+ on average depending on size and scope, protecting this valuable square footage is a wise long-term investment.

The value added in terms of avoiding major structural repairs, controlling humidity and mold risks, minimizing leaks, and gaining usable space almost always outweighs the project costs.

Carefully evaluate contractors, obtain multiple quotes, and focus on addressing root drainage causes – not just symptoms – to maximize the value of your basement waterproofing investment.