New Jersey Exterior Basement Waterproofing
Your Exterior Foundation Waterproofing Company for Central & Northern NJ and the Jersey Shore
There's no need to settle for a damp, uncomfortable basement. With the help of Blue Umbrella Waterproofing, your lower level can be transformed into whatever you desire - whether that be an extra bedroom, office space, or game room. You no longer have to worry about Mother Nature ruining all your hard work. Moisture never stands a chance!
Blue Umbrella specializes in exterior basement waterproofing throughout northern & central New Jersey. So make sure your basement is enjoying its prime potential with proper waterproofing today.
What is Exterior Basement (Foundation) Waterproofing?
Exterior basement waterproofing is a process of waterproofing the exterior walls of a basement to protect it from water damage. Exterior waterproofing is used in new home construction and for older homes or basements built in areas with high water tables like New Jersey.
Generally, exterior waterproofing involves applying an impermeable barrier over the entire outside surface of your basement walls. Properly waterproofing your basement not only helps guard against rot and structural damage but also prevents mold and other health hazards resulting from excessive moisture buildup.
How Water Gets in Your Basement
Water can infiltrate your basement in several ways. It can leak through cracks in the foundation walls and through drains near the house not connected to a functioning downspout system. Other potential sources of leakage include faulty sump pumps, improper grading, and high water tables. The stack effect also plays a role; moisture is drawn into your basement as warm air rises through your home from the lowest level.
Exterior waterproofing solutions focus on sealing out water and moisture from the basement by applying special materials to the outside of the basement walls, increasing the life expectancy of your foundation. Exterior waterproofing protects you from water damage while also giving you peace of mind that your home will remain safe and dry for years to come.
How We Waterproof Your Basement Walls from the Outside
New Jersey moisture levels are generally high year-round due to the humid coastal climate, so you must choose an experienced New Jersey contractor specializing in exterior basement waterproofing installation to ensure your basement is properly protected. Blue Umbrella has waterproofed hundreds of New Jersey homes and businesses.
For exterior basement waterproofing, we apply a sealant directly to the outside of your foundation, followed by a blue skin membrane. The sealant and membrane keep any water in the soil from seeping through or even contacting your basement walls. In addition, we protect the membrane by adding a layer of drainage board. Last, the soil is backfilled onto the foundation.
Should You Use Exterior or Interior Basement Waterproofing
At Blue Umbrella, we create customized basement waterproofing solutions using interior and exterior options to best address your basement water issues.
Exterior Waterproofing
For existing homes, exterior basement waterproofing involves digging a trench around your home to apply the waterproofing system, which may require digging up sidewalks, plants & shrubs, patios, decks, and HVAC systems. For these reasons – and the additional cost of excavation – Blue Umbrella generally prefers to employ exterior waterproofing only on new construction projects.
Interior Waterproofing
A better option for existing homes is interior basement waterproofing. Interior basement waterproofing involves digging a trench to install a french drain next to the foundation footing, which collects water channeled to a sump pump that removes the water from your basement. Interior waterproofing systems are less expensive to install and just as effective – if not more effective – than exterior foundation waterproofing systems.
Customized Waterproofing Solutions
Usually, Blue Umbrella suggests interior waterproofing systems for existing homes and exterior waterproofing for new homes. Still, every home is different, and we tailor the waterproofing solution to match your home's needs.
Commercial & Residential Exterior Waterproofing Solutions
Blue Umbrella provides exterior waterproofing for residential and commercial properties in New Jersey. Waterproofing the outer walls of both commercial and residential buildings in NJ is vital for ensuring these spaces' longevity. Waterproofing the walls of your property also safeguards your foundation increases energy efficiency, and reduces the risk of mold growth. Let us help protect your customers, renters, employees, and your investment in your property with effective waterproofing services.
Exterior Waterproofing FAQs
1. How long does exterior waterproofing last?
Exterior waterproofing systems provide decades of protection, assuming the original drainage and waterproofing components remain intact and unobstructed. Routine inspections and maintaining adequate drainage around the foundation extend the system’s effectiveness.
2. Can exterior basement waterproofing be done on an existing home, or only during new construction?
While exterior basement waterproofing is possible for existing homes, Blue Umbrella only offers this service for new builds. Applying waterproofing materials to exterior foundation walls requires extensive excavation, which is costly and disrupts your landscape.
Because of this, we recommend interior waterproofing solutions for homes that are already built. If you’re comparing options for an existing home, we’ll walk you through why interior waterproofing may be the best route.
3. What time of year is best to do exterior basement waterproofing in New Jersey?
The most favorable time to schedule exterior waterproofing in New Jersey is from late spring through early fall. At this time of year, work crews can apply coatings and backfill with a lower chance of weather delays.
If your project must be completed in less ideal weather, we’ll evaluate the site conditions and adjust our timing or processes accordingly. We always make sure our systems are installed properly so they perform as intended.
4. Does exterior basement waterproofing require excavation around my home?
Yes, exterior waterproofing requires full-depth excavation around the foundation to expose the walls, apply sealants and membranes, and install a drainage board before backfilling. Because excavation disrupts the property, we stick to interior waterproofing for existing homes. This addresses water intrusion just as well—if not better—than an exterior basement waterproofing system.
5. Will exterior waterproofing stop my basement from leaking if I already have cracks or damage?
If you already have leaks or cracks in your basement walls, exterior waterproofing might not be the most practical or cost-effective solution. Our approach for homes with existing damage is to install an interior waterproofing system. This may involve putting in a French drain, installing a sump pump, setting up a dehumidifier, and sealing existing cracks from the inside.
6. How do I know if I need exterior waterproofing or just interior waterproofing?
When we come out to inspect your home, we assess whether the foundation is exposed, the condition of your landscaping, and the nature of your water intrusion issues before making a recommendation. If the foundation is accessible and the home is under construction, exterior waterproofing may be the optimal long-term solution. For finished homes, or where leaks are already present, we recommend interior waterproofing.
Proud Member of the Basement Health Association Serving New Jersey
Blue Umbrella Waterproofing is a certified member of the Basement Health Association (BHA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting best practices in basement waterproofing. As BHA members, we adhere to high industry standards and stay informed about the latest training, technologies, and methods for effective basement protection.
When you partner with Blue Umbrella, you’re choosing a team committed to professionalism, technical excellence, and safeguarding your home from water-related damage—backed by an organization devoted to basement health and safety.
Blue Umbrella Protects Your Basement
Employing an exterior basement waterproofing system is a great way to keep your basement dry and comfortable. It helps reduce moisture to combat mold and mildew and protects your belongings from flooding. When it comes to protecting what matters most, leave it to us! Blue Umbrella is New Jersey's trusted basement waterproofer.
50% OFF MATERIALS
$0 Down, 0 Payments, &
0% Interest for 12 Months!*
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest tips, tools & news!
For more information about basement waterproofing services or to find out if Blue Umbrella serves your area, see our complete service area.
