Get matched with top basement waterproofing pros in Thorndike, ME

In nearly all cases, you are required to install a vapor barrier in your crawl space. However, local regulations will change based on the local climate and the crawl space's susceptibility to moisture. Even if a vapor barrier is not legally required, it is often a good idea to keep your crawl space dry.

The easiest methods for waterproofing your basement include installing a gutter system to direct excess runoff away from your foundation and grading the soil away from your home to pull water away from the concrete. In some cases, these methods alone can be enough to eliminate water intrusion and moisture problems in your basement. If you have excessive rainfall in your area, though, you might need to employ more complicated solutions, like installing a French drain and a dehumidification system inside.

Finishing an unfinished basement adds the most value, with an average return of 70% or $22,400. A bathroom addition in the basement will provide an ROI of 75%, but the higher cost will leave you with a lower actual return of $9,000, on average. Finishing a basement and adding a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom to rent the space will leave you with the highest possible ROI, as you could see well over 100% if you rent the space out long-term.

“Basement waterproofing” sometimes refers to applying a waterproof sealant to basement walls, in which case you would use a waterproof paint, often made of latex. However, there are many methods you can use to waterproof a basement, including exterior drainage systems, interior drainage systems, dehumidifiers, and more. As such, the materials you use can vary depending on the methods you use.