Drainage Systems – Exterior vs. Interior
One of the biggest questions, when thinking about waterproofing and installing drainage systems, is what method will you choose? If you are reading our blog for the first time or know nothing about waterproofing perhaps you are saying “wait, there is more than one method to choose from?” Yes, there are in fact two methods when it comes to waterproofing; interior and exterior. This blog will lay out the pros and cons of both approaches so that you have all the information you need to choose the one that works best for you.
Exterior Drainage Systems
Pros
- The interior of your basement is not disrupted
- You as the customer don’t have to prep in advance
- The soil outside your home is drained and water pressure against the foundation is relieved
- Full exterior excavation allows for membrane waterproofing application
Cons
- Exterior work is more labor intensive
- Although the interior of your basement is not disrupted, the exterior of your home is another matter. Pavement beside or near the house must be removed or replaced
- Exterior waterproofing is not possible if there are home additions, attached garages, and close buildings
- No hydro-static pressure relief
- Exterior waterproofing can be 2-3 times longer than an interior installation
Interior Drainage Systems
Pros
- There is no need to removing any finished walls in your basement
- There is no disruption to the exterior of your home
- Interior waterproofing requires less labor, and in turn, costs less
- Relieves hydro-static pressure
- Weather will not affect or postpone the installation process
- Interior waterproofing ensures that the elements, soil conditions or roots growing into the drainage system do not become factors
Cons
- There are preparations that you as the customer must make
- Any stored items and built-in shelving or cabinets may need to be moved
- Removal of carpeting or flooring
- Until installation is complete your basement is not usable
- Exterior sealant is of course not possible so water could permeate the exterior foundation
We at ACCL know that the choice between exterior and interior waterproofing is not always easy. We sincerely hope that the details above help make that decision a little easier.
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