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The Daily Insight

Can you waterproof a basement from the outside?

Author

William Smith

Updated on April 04, 2026

Exterior waterproofing is a highly effective waterproofing method and can be completed on basements with both poured concrete or masonry block walls. This repair requires excavation of the basement wall and also includes an exterior moisture barrier (dimple board + membrane).

What is the best product to waterproof basement walls?

If your foil test showed that water is soaking through your basement walls and leaving them wet, seal the interior of the walls with a high-quality waterproof paint, such as DRYLOK White Extreme Waterproofer (available from Home Depot). This type of sealant comes premixed and goes on just like a coat of paint.

How much does it cost to waterproof a basement exterior?

Average Cost to Waterproof a Basement Per square foot, the average cost is $3 to $10. For minor fixes, costs can be as low as around $600, while at the same time extensive and involved waterproofing jobs can set some homeowners back by as much as $10,000.

How do I keep water away from my house foundation?

Proper drainage is the best way to keep water away from your home’s foundation. Install a French drain system around the house foundation – Dig a trench around the foundation, line it with gravel, and place a drain with perforations in it to pull the water away. Cover the drain with gravel and add soil over it.

How much does it cost to waterproof a basement from outside?

The average cost of waterproofing your basement from the outside with a coating or membrane is $3 to $6 per square foot, which typically includes materials and labor costs. The liquid or sheet membrane keeps water from penetrating the basement walls.

How do you waterproof a basement floor?

To effectively waterproof the concrete basement floor, it must be be patched, as any crack could be an access point for water. Read the instructions on the bag of concrete and mix it with water in the bucket. Use the drill’s mixing attachment to stir the contents until the concrete has the consistency of oatmeal.

What is the best paint for basement walls?

The best waterproofing paint for basements are epoxy or rustoleum paint. Epoxy-based paint can also act as a water seal to the concrete, preventing any water damage from occurring. Waterproof epoxy basement paint can be purchased at your local home improvement store at affordable prices.

What is waterproof coating?

A waterproof coating is a substance or material made to coat an object or surface and prevent it from suffering any negative effects from exposure to water.