Exterior Waterproofing Toronto
Protection for Your Property!
Aquamaster is your premier choice for professional exterior waterproofing Toronto. Since 2009, we have provided thousands of homeowners with reliable solutions to prevent basement leaks and safeguard their properties against water damage. Our team delivers top-quality workmanship using only the best materials for protection that lasts. Schedule a free on-site estimate today and take advantage of our 10% discount for new customers!
Built to Last for Decades
What is Exterior Waterproofing?
Exterior waterproofing refers to the process of preventing water from entering the foundation or basement walls of a building from the outside. It is a method used to protect the structure from water damage, such as basement leaks, dampness, and mould growth.
Unlike interior waterproofing, exterior waterproofing in Toronto is a permanent solution that prevents water from entering your basement, as opposed to managing the water that has already made it through.
Benefits of Exterior Waterproofing in Toronto
A dry basement is a healthy basement. The heavy rainfall, snow melts, and high humidity in the Toronto area can create unwanted risks to your foundation and basement. This can create problems, especially for finished basements – water leaks can damage not only the foundation but also the drywall, floor coverings, and more.
In such cases, you will likely notice a wet or damp floor, wall stains, mould growth, or a musty smell. If you do, it’s crucial to act quickly and contact Aquamaster, specialists in exterior waterproofing in Toronto. Wet or damp basements won’t fix themselves and will deteriorate over time.
While there are many different approaches to wet basement repairs, exterior waterproofing services are considered the most effective solution.
This is because waterproofing your basement from the outside will involve installing a waterproofing membrane—a barrier that will minimize the interaction your foundation has with groundwater. The result is that minimum water makes it to your basement, or if done properly, no water at all.
Exterior Waterproofing Process
Aquamaster provides the best waterproofing services in Toronto. We use top-quality waterproofing materials and experienced workmanship to ensure the process is done right and lasts for a long time.
This typically begins with excavating around the foundation and cleaning and drying the foundation walls. Our team will then repair any of the newly discovered foundation wall cracks and begin the waterproofing process. Here are more details of the process.
Exterior Foundation Assessment
A professional exterior waterproofing contractor inspects your building to identify potential vulnerabilities, determine the extent of water infiltration, and assess the condition of the foundation walls. Our team will perform a visual inspection and may conduct tests to analyze the drainage patterns around the building.
Excavation
The area around the foundation is excavated to expose the exterior walls. This is typically done using heavy machinery such as excavators or backhoes. However, in cases where space is limited, we may need to do the digging manually. The depth of the excavation depends on the specific requirements of the project.
Basement Wall Preparation
Once the walls are exposed, they are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, debris, and any loose or deteriorated material. Our contractors may use power washing, wire brushes, or other appropriate methods to ensure a clean surface.
Foundation Repair
Next, we will need to fix foundation cracks. Any gaps, damaged areas or cracks in the foundation walls will be repaired. This can involve filling cracks with hydraulic cement, epoxy injections for structural cracks, and patching damaged sections. The goal is to create a solid and seamless surface. Many of these cracks are not visible from the inside, so it’s important that we identify and fix them before they worsen.
Waterproofing Membrane Application
A waterproofing membrane is applied to the exterior walls. The type of membrane used may vary, but common options include asphalt-based membranes, rubberized asphalt membranes, or polymer-based coatings. The membrane is typically applied in multiple layers to ensure effectiveness.
Drainage System Installation
weeping tile, or French drain, drainage system is installed around the foundation to redirect water away from the building. This includes components such as drain tiles, gravel, and perforated pipes. The system collects water that may accumulate near the foundation and directs it towards a suitable drainage outlet, such as a sump pump or a drain field.
Backfilling
Once the waterproofing solutions and drainage system are in place, the excavated area is backfilled with soil and gravel. The soil is carefully compacted to provide proper support and prevent settling. The grade of the soil and gravel is also adjusted to ensure water flows away from the building.
Landscaping & Restoration
Finally, any landscaping or hardscaping features that were removed during the excavation process are restored. This may include reseeding the lawn, replanting vegetation, performing concrete work or repairing any pathways or structures that were disturbed.
Cost
- Interior Waterproofing – generally, interior waterproofing tends to be less expensive compared to exterior waterproofing. The materials and labor costs are often lower, as it involves less extensive work and excavation.
- Exterior Waterproofing – due to the excavation, additional materials, and labor required, exterior waterproofing is usually more expensive. It often involves more complex construction techniques and can be a larger-scale project.
Maintenance
- Interior waterproofing system – will require an ongoing maintenance for the sump pump, drainage system, sump pump discharge line etc.
- Exterior waterproofing – normally doesn’t require maintenance.
Interior vs Exterior Waterproofing Services
Interior and exterior foundation waterproofing are two different methods used to protect buildings and homes from water intrusion and moisture damage. Here’s a comparison of the two:
How it Works
- Interior Waterproofing – This method focuses on managing the water that has already made it inside your basement. Waterproofing membranes redirect water to the drainage system, which leads to a sump pump that pushes the water outside of your home.
- Exterior Waterproofing – This method is designed to prevent water from entering the structure altogether. It creates a barrier on the outside of the building, preventing water from reaching the foundation walls
Location of Application
- Interior – The work is typically performed inside the building, primarily in the basement or crawl space. It involves a drainage system and sump pump installation, vapour barriers, and sealants on the interior surfaces.
- Exterior – The work is done outside the building, around the foundation walls. It includes excavating around the foundation, applying waterproof membranes or coatings, and installing drainage systems.
Accessibility and Disruption
- Interior – since the work is performed inside the building, it is generally easier to access and requires less disruption to the landscaping or external structures. However, it may require some interior finishes to be removed temporarily.
- Exterior – this method involves excavation around the foundation, which can be more intrusive and disruptive. It requires access to the exterior walls of the building and may involve removing landscaping, decks, or other structures temporarily.
Cost
- Interior – Generally, interior waterproofing tends to be less expensive compared to external waterproofing. The materials and labour costs are often lower as this method involves less extensive work and excavation.
- Exterior – Due to the excavation, additional materials, and labour required, exterior waterproofing is usually more expensive. It often involves more complex construction techniques and can be a larger-scale project.
Maintenance
- Interior – These systems require ongoing maintenance for the sump pump, drainage, sump pump discharge line, etc.
- Exterior – Exterior foundation waterproofing does not typically require maintenance.
The choice between an exterior or interior waterproofing system depends on various factors, such as the source and severity of water issues and site conditions, as well as your budget and personal preferences.
In some cases, a combination of both methods might be necessary for optimal water management and protection of the foundation. Consult with one of Aquamaster’s waterproofing professionals to assess your property’s specific needs.
Make sure to contact one of our exterior waterproofing contractors in Toronto for a FREE on-site assessment to decide which waterproofing method is right to protect your foundation from water damage!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about our exterior waterproofing services in Toronto and the GTA.
If you notice signs like foundation leaks, dampness, mould growth, or wet wall stains, or if your area has heavy rainfall or poor drainage, external waterproofing may be necessary to prevent further damage.
Exterior waterproofing Toronto costs from $100-$300 per linear foot. Specific prices will depend on the scope of the project, depth of the foundation, how hard it is to access the foundation and more. Learn more about exterior waterproofing costs here.
Exterior waterproofing solutions take from 1 day to 2 weeks. Specific timelines depend on the size of your property, the scope of work, and other factors. Waterproofing one wall will take less time than waterproofing your entire foundation from the outside. Learn more about how long exterior waterproofing takes.
Services by Licensed Experts
- Basement Waterproofing
- Basement Underpinning
- Plumbing Services
- Foundation Repair
- Crawlspace Encapsulation
- Basement Crack Repairs
- Drain Camera Inspection
- Sump Pump Installation
- KITEC Pipe Replacement
- Basement Plumbing Rough
- Bench Footing
Why Choose Us?
Why Choose Aquamaster for Waterproofing?
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Chose Aquamaster
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Coverage
Coverage
Work, materials and labour warranty for 25 years. Fully transferable from owner to owner.
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Emergency
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Our emergency team is available 24 hours a day.
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& Insured
& Insured
Aquamaster team is fully licensed & insured to work in plumbing, concrete, underpinning and waterproofing.
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In Business
Since 2009
Since 2009
We’ve been around for a while. We will be around for a lot longer!
Proudly Serving
South Ontario
South Ontario
Our emergency team is available 24 hours a day.
Best
Materials
Materials
We always choose high quality materials because we want to provide high quality service.
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of Mind
of Mind
Our processes are well-thought through, so you don’t have to worry about it!
Don't Take Our Word for It!
I used Aquamaster for two separate home waterproofing projects and I was extremely satasified with their work and price. Their team are highly skilled, thorough and were able to complete the 10.5 hour job in one day. They were even kind enough to seal my window frame after I noticed a minor leak. I would highly recommend Aquamaster for all your waterproofing and plumbing needs.
The Aquamaster team is absolutely fantastic! They went above and beyond to diagnose and correct the problem that I had with my basement plumbing caused by old pipes and persistent tree roots. I used them once in 2012 and in 2020. I cannot say enough good things about this team - highly recommend.
Aqua Master quoted me a very fair price for waterproofing and finshed the job ahead of schedule. We haven't had any water issues in our post-war hm since then. Highly recommend this business for its professionalism and quality of work. Hire with confidence!
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Waterproofing and Leak Repair Process
Discovery Call
Connect with one of our certified experts, so we can advise on the best way to approach your project.
Contract
We sign a contract that outlines details of your project.
Warranty
We do the work, you get peace of mind and a 25-year transferable warranty.
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Proudly Serving Toronto and Beyond
Get a Free On-Site Exterior Waterproofing Estimate Today!
Protect your home from water damage with Aquamaster, Toronto’s trusted exterior waterproofing company. Contact us today to get started with a free on-site estimate and take advantage of our 10% discount for new customers!
