How Long Does Basement Waterproofing Last?

Basement wall with a vapor barrier on it.

Dealing with basement flooding is stressful, but the repairs are necessary. After installing the proper waterproofing solutions, you might wonder how long they will last.

Basement waterproofing can last for decades if done right. On this page, we’ll look at how long it lasts and offer maintenance tips you can use to make it last even longer.

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What is Basement Waterproofing?

Before we go over how long it lasts, let’s define what we mean when we say “basement waterproofing”. At AquaGuard, basement waterproofing is the process of sealing basement walls with a vapor barrier, installing perimeter drainage and a sump pump, placing a dehumidifier in the basement, and protecting discharge lines from freezing.

What Are the Benefits of Basement Waterproofing?

With all these components working together, your basement stays protected against all forms of moisture. This prevents common basement issues from showing up, such as:

Now that you know about the various components of basement waterproofing, we can look at how long it actually lasts.

Typical Lifespan of Basement Waterproofing

How long basement waterproofing lasts depends on a few factors. These include the materials used, the quality of the job, the age of the home, and the condition of the surrounding soil in your yard.

As a rule of thumb, most basement waterproofing lasts for at least 5-10 years. However, with proper maintenance, it can last for decades. If you work with AquaGuard to waterproof your basement, we offer regular maintenance as part of our services!

How Long Each Waterproofing Part Lasts

Basement waterproofing as a whole can last for decades, but each component has its own lifespan to consider. Quickly, let’s look at the average lifespan of the parts in a basement waterproofing system.

Vapor Barriers: Professionally installed vapor barriers last around 20 years (or more with proper maintenance).
Dehumidifiers: Store-bought dehumidifiers tend to last 5-10 years, and professional dehumidifiers can last longer.
Interior Drains: Interior drains are hardy and generally last around 30-40 years.
Sump Pumps: On average, sump pumps last about 10 years.
Anti-freeze Discharge Line Attachments: Anti-freeze discharge line attachments typically last 5 to 10 years, depending on quality, usage, and environmental conditions.

Keep in mind, that these are all average lifespans. With proper maintenance, you can make all of these systems last even longer.

Maintenance Tips for Your Waterproofing System

Maintaining your basement waterproofing system is crucial to keep it working well and protecting your home. Here are some simple yet effective tips to help you maintain your system:

Inside look at a sump pit with water collecting within it.

Test the Sump Pump: Test it every few months by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to make sure it activates.
Clean the Sump Pit: Remove dirt and debris at least once a year.
Inspect for Leaks: Look for wet spots, mold, or musty smells in your basement.

Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: Keep them clean and ensure they direct water away from your foundation.
Check the Drainage System: Ensure interior and exterior drains are clear and free of blockages.
Schedule Professional Inspections: Have a professional inspect your system once a year.

Get Expert Basement Waterproofing and Maintenance From AquaGuard

AquaGuard inspector meeting homeowner at front door of a home.

Basement waterproofing lasts a long time, especially with proper maintenance. If your basement already has waterproofing tools installed and you need an expert team to check on them, consider working with AquaGuard Foundation Solutions.

Since 1995, homeowners in Northern Georgia have trusted our team to install leading basement waterproofing solutions and provide expert maintenance. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and ensure your waterproofing system stays in top form.

Basement Waterproofing FAQs

Can I just use a waterproof paint to protect my basement walls?

Waterproof paint can temporarily block surface moisture, but it does not address deeper issues like water seepage through cracks or hydrostatic pressure. For long-term protection, more comprehensive solutions like interior drains and sump pumps are more effective.

Is it cheaper to waterproof a basement yourself?

DIY basement waterproofing can be cheaper upfront, but for more severe water problems, a DIY approach might end up being more costly in the long run due to potential for mistakes or failure to address the root cause. Professional waterproofing, while more expensive initially, offers a more reliable and lasting solution, potentially saving you money over time.

What are the risks of using improper materials for DIY basement waterproofing?

Using the wrong materials for DIY waterproofing makes them less likely to stop water from getting into your basement, and they might not last too long. This ends up making water issues worse and costs more money to fix later.

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Ted Dryce

Content Writer

Ted is an SEO Content Writer who has been with Groundworks since 2021. He’s covered home repair topics ranging from crawl space encapsulation to regional soil conditions. When he’s not working, Ted is performing improv comedy and working on his own creative projects.