Home
Starting your waterproofing journey for your basement might be overwhelming. As a homeowner, you might not know what’s worth it and where to start. Let us be transparent – not every fix is worth the price when you’re starting, and some upgrades give you more bang for your buck than others. But waterproofing a basement on a budget doesn’t have to mean cutting corners; it just means knowing where to focus.
Here’s how you can confidently waterproof your basement in the GTA without breaking the bank.
3 Budget Waterproofing Solutions We Recommend
1. Interior Membrane Installation
What it does:
An interior membrane installation helps keep your basement dry by acting as a barrier between your interior walls and any water that seeps through the foundation. Instead of blocking water outside, this system controls it from the inside. A waterproof membrane is applied to the interior walls of your basement, directing incoming moisture down into a drainage system (usually a weeping tile or sump pump setup) at the base of the foundation. It doesn’t stop water from entering, but it makes sure it doesn’t linger where it can cause damage.
Why we recommend it:
Interior membrane systems are especially effective for finished basements or spaces where excavation around the home isn’t practical or affordable. We recommend it because:
- It prevents water from pooling inside your basement
- It protects finished walls, insulation, and flooring
- It offers a more budget-friendly option than exterior excavation
Interior membranes are a solid choice when exterior waterproofing isn’t feasible, or as part of a layered approach. If you’re waterproofing your basement on a budget, interior systems let you control moisture without tearing up your yard or your wallet!
2. Sump Pump
What it does:
A sump pump removes extra water from your basement and pumps it far from your foundation to stop floods. In combination with a drainage system, your basement is safe from any collection or pooling of water in your basement.
Why we recommend it:
It’s a powerful solution when outside drainage isn’t enough or isn’t possible. It actively takes water out from inside your home, where it can do interior damage. The sump pump system doesn’t just block the water out; it physically moves it so that it doesn’t continue building up. It’s especially helpful if:
- Your basement is below the water table (the level underground where the soil and rocks are completely full of water, like a sponge)
- You live in a flood-prone area
- You’ve seen water come up through cracks in the floor
The best part? Once it’s in, it runs automatically. Just make sure it’s installed by a basement waterproofing company in your area, as we have the expertise to figure out how the flow of water near your home. Waterproofing a basement on a budget doesn’t mean skipping essentials like this; you’re just choosing the cheapest options that work long-term!
3. Crack Injection and Foundation Sealing
What it does:
Over time, small cracks in your basement walls or floor can let water seep in. Basement crack injections use a special sealant to fill those gaps, usually polyurethane or epoxy, to stop leaks and prevent them from getting worse. While this solution is more expensive, it will save you money in the future.
Why we recommend it:
This is a targeted fix that prevents a small problem from turning into a big one. It’s worth spending money on it in the long run, doesn’t involve tearing up your yard, and works especially well on poured concrete foundations.
It’s also a great first step for anyone starting to invest in basement improvements without diving into a full system install right away. If you’re waterproofing a basement on a budget, this is often one of the most efficient starting points.
3 Solutions We Don’t Recommend for Budget Waterproofing
1. Waterproof Paints and Wall Coatings
What it does:
These products are rolled or brushed onto basement walls and claim to block out moisture. They often promise a “quick fix” and a cleaner look.
Why it’s not a priority:
At best, they improve the appearance. But they don’t hold up when there’s pressure coming from outside. If water is pushing its way through your foundation walls, no coating is going to stop that. Here’s why you can wait:
- Coatings can peel or bubble over time
- They don’t fix the source of the problem
- You’ll likely have to reapply them regularly
They’re fine as a finishing touch for aesthetic purposes, just not the first step.
2. Dehumidifiers
What it does:
These machines pull moisture out of the air to help lower humidity. They’re great for comfort and can prevent mould from growing on surfaces.
Why it’s not a priority:
Dehumidifiers treat the air, not the source of moisture. If water is getting in through the floor or walls, a dehumidifier won’t keep up.
When you’re waterproofing a basement on a budget, focus on structural improvements first, and think of this as a bonus add-on once the basics are covered.
3. Gutter Guard
What it does:
These are designed to keep leaves and debris away from your home, helping water flow freely off the roof and away from the home.
Why it’s not a priority:
While it’s true that clogged gutters can lead to water pooling near the foundation, guards themselves don’t always work as promised. Here’s what you should know:
- Many still allow small debris through
- Heavy rain can overflow gutters anyway
- They don’t improve your grading or move water far from the house
If you want to improve water flow, start by extending your downspouts and reshaping the slope of your yard. Both are more effective (and often cheaper) than fancy gutter gadgets.
Smart Choices Lead to Higher Savings
Making smart decisions on where to start protecting your basement can save you money as a beginner. Focus on solving the problem at the source with solid drainage, a reliable pump system, and targeted crack repair. Once those are in place, the extras can come later. Waterproofing a basement on a budget is all about choosing the right priorities, not the most expensive ones. Pick smart, and your basement (and your wallet) will thank you!