Exterior Foundation Waterproofing Winnipeg

What Is Exterior Foundation Waterproofing?

Exterior foundation waterproofing is a comprehensive process that involves excavating around the foundation walls, repairing defects, and installing a full water barrier and drainage system on the outside of the home.

This approach is considered the gold standard for foundation protection because it prevents:

• Water penetration through foundation walls

• Saturation of concrete and masonry

• Long-term structural deterioration

• Mold growth and indoor air quality issues

When done correctly, exterior waterproofing protects the foundation itself—not just the basement space.

When Exterior Waterproofing Is the Right Choice

Exterior foundation waterproofing in Winnipeg is strongly recommended when homeowners experience:

• Water leaking through basement walls

• Foundation cracks leaking from the outside

• Persistent moisture despite interior waterproofing

• Bowing or deteriorating foundation walls

• Wet basements during heavy rain or spring melt

• Older homes without modern drainage systems

Many homeowners search for “exterior foundation waterproofing near me” after repeated interior fixes fail. In these cases, the issue is usually external water pressure, not surface-level cracks.

Winnipeg Soil & Climate Considerations

Winnipeg presents unique challenges for foundation waterproofing:

• Expansive clay soil that retains water

• High spring groundwater levels

• Deep frost penetration

• Extreme freeze–thaw cycles

• Seasonal soil movement

Exterior waterproofing systems installed by Assured Foundations are designed to accommodate these conditions, ensuring long-term performance rather than short-term patchwork.

Our Exterior Foundation Waterproofing Process

Every project begins with a site-specific assessment. We do not use pre-packaged systems or shortcuts.

1. Controlled Excavation

We excavate down to the footing level around affected foundation walls, carefully protecting landscaping, sidewalks, and adjacent structures.

Excavation allows full access to:

• Foundation walls

• Existing cracks or damage

• Footings and drainage conditions

2. Foundation Wall Inspection & Repair

Before waterproofing begins, we address structural and surface issues such as:

• Exterior foundation cracks

• Honeycombing or porous concrete

• Mortar joint deterioration

• Cold joint separation

Cracks are repaired using professional-grade methods—not surface sealants.

3. Exterior Foundation Waterproofing Membrane

Once the wall is prepared, we install a high-performance exterior waterproofing membrane that forms a continuous barrier against moisture.

This membrane:

• Adheres directly to the foundation wall

• Remains flexible in cold temperatures

• Bridges small cracks and surface irregularities

• Prevents water migration into the structure

This is not paint or tar—it is a true waterproofing system.

4. Exterior Foundation Drainage System

To relieve hydrostatic pressure, we install an exterior foundation drain (commonly referred to as a weeping tile or French drain).

The system includes:

• Perforated drainage pipe at footing level

• Proper gravel bedding

• Filter fabric to prevent clogging

• Connection to a sump system or gravity outlet

This ensures water is carried away instead of building pressure against the foundation.

5. Protective Drainage Board Installation

A drainage board is installed over the waterproofing membrane to:

• Protect the membrane from backfill damage

• Create an air gap for water flow

• Improve long-term drainage performance

This step is critical for system longevity.

6. Backfilling & Site Restoration

Once waterproofing is complete, we carefully backfill and restore the site, ensuring proper grading to direct surface water away from the foundation.

Waterproofing Basement Walls From Outside

Waterproofing basement walls from outside is the most effective way to stop water intrusion permanently. It addresses:

• Wall saturation

• External crack penetration

• Water pressure buildup

• Long-term concrete degradation

Interior sealers and coatings cannot match this level of protection because they do not eliminate external moisture exposure.

Exterior Foundation Waterproofing Cost in Winnipeg

Exterior waterproofing costs vary based on several factors:

• Depth of excavation

• Length of foundation walls

• Soil conditions

• Crack repair requirements

• Drainage system scope

• Access constraints

Typical cost ranges:

• Partial exterior waterproofing: $6,000 – $10,000

• Full perimeter waterproofing: $12,000 – $25,000+

• Exterior waterproofing with drainage replacement: $15,000 – $30,000

While exterior waterproofing is a larger upfront investment, it provides the longest lifespan and highest level of protection.

Exterior vs Interior Waterproofing: Which Is Better?

In many cases, exterior waterproofing is the final solution when interior systems are no longer sufficient.

Common Myths About Exterior Waterproofing

“Sealant alone is enough”

Surface sealants degrade over time and do not relieve water pressure.

“Exterior waterproofing only works for new homes”

Exterior waterproofing is highly effective for existing homes when installed properly.

“It’s too disruptive”

Professional excavation minimizes disruption, and results far outweigh temporary inconvenience.

Why Homeowners Choose Assured Foundations

Exterior foundation waterproofing requires experience, planning, and proper materials. Homeowners across Winnipeg trust Assured Foundations because:

• We understand local soil and groundwater behavior

• We repair foundations before sealing them

• We install full drainage systems—not partial fixes

• We use proven materials designed for Canadian climates

• We provide honest assessments and clear pricing

Our work is built to protect your home for decades.

Signs You Should Act Now

Do not ignore:

• Damp or stained basement walls

• Efflorescence (white powder) on concrete

• Cracks leaking after rainfall

• Persistent musty odors

• Basement water during snowmelt

Early intervention prevents structural damage and significantly lowers repair costs.

Get a Free Exterior Waterproofing Estimate

If your basement continues to leak despite previous repairs, exterior foundation waterproofing may be the solution.

Call Assured Foundations at 431 293 8735 to schedule a free inspection and estimate.
Proudly serving Winnipeg and surrounding Manitoba communities.