Is exterior waterproofing always necessary?

No. In many cases, interior waterproofing solutions are highly effective and far less disruptive. We honestly assess your situation and recommend exterior waterproofing only when the conditions call for it.

Exterior Foundation Waterproofing in Utah Valley

Q: Can exterior waterproofing be done in winter in Utah?

Work is weather-dependent. Frozen ground or heavy precipitation can delay excavation. In Utah Valley, exterior waterproofing is most commonly scheduled from spring through fall.

Exterior foundation waterproofing addresses basement moisture at its source — the outside of your foundation wall — before water ever gets a chance to enter your home. While interior solutions manage water after it's entered, exterior waterproofing stops it at the point of contact. Utah Valley Waterproofing provides exterior waterproofing for homeowners throughout Provo, Orem, Lehi, and the surrounding area.

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When Is Exterior Waterproofing the Right Choice?

Exterior waterproofing is the most comprehensive waterproofing approach because it protects the wall surface itself from water contact. It's particularly effective when:

Interior patching and crack injection repairs have failed or provided only temporary relief
Water is entering through multiple points across an entire wall face
You're doing major landscaping or excavation near the foundation anyway
The home has never had any foundation waterproofing applied
You want the most complete long-term moisture protection available
Significant hydrostatic pressure is building up against the exterior wall surface

What Exterior Waterproofing Involves

The process requires excavation around the foundation perimeter — which is the main reason homeowners sometimes opt for interior solutions first. However, when conditions call for exterior waterproofing, there is no more effective long-term solution.

Excavation: We excavate soil down to the footing level along the affected wall sections, carefully protecting landscaping, utilities, and other structures.
Wall Preparation: The foundation wall surface is cleaned and any active cracks are addressed before membrane application.
Waterproofing Membrane: A waterproofing membrane or coating is applied to the exterior wall surface, creating a barrier between the foundation and the surrounding soil.
Drainage Board: A dimple mat or drainage board is installed over the membrane to channel water down toward the footing drain rather than pressing against the wall.
Footing Drain: Perforated pipe at footing level collects water and directs it away from the foundation — often connected to a sump pit or a gravity-outlet drain.
Backfill & Grading: We backfill with appropriate material and grade the surface to direct surface water away from the home.

Benefits of Exterior Waterproofing

Protects the structural wall itself from ongoing water exposure
Addresses the moisture problem at the source rather than managing it after entry
Creates a complete barrier system that protects the home for decades
Can be combined with new footing drain installation for maximum drainage benefit
Allows for foundation crack repair on the exterior surface at the same time

Frequently Asked Questions

No. In many cases, interior waterproofing solutions are highly effective and far less disruptive. We'll honestly assess your situation and recommend exterior waterproofing only when the conditions call for it.

Excavation does disturb landscaping along the affected wall sections. We work to protect what we can and restore the surface after backfilling. For homes with mature plantings close to the foundation, we discuss the impact clearly before starting.

A properly installed exterior waterproofing system with quality materials typically lasts 25 to 30 years or longer under normal conditions.

Work is weather-dependent — frozen ground or heavy precipitation can delay excavation. In Utah Valley, exterior waterproofing is most commonly scheduled in spring through fall.

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Serving Utah Valley Homeowners

We provide exterior foundation waterproofing in Provo, Orem, Lehi, Pleasant Grove, American Fork, and beyond. See all service areas.

Want a Permanent Fix for Persistent Leaks?

Exterior waterproofing gives you the most complete protection available. Request a free inspection and we'll tell you if it's the right solution for your home.

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