What Westmont Homeowners Should Know About Interior and Exterior Basement Waterproofing

Understanding Basement Waterproofing in Westmont, IL

If you live in Westmont, chances are you’ve either experienced basement moisture firsthand or know someone who has. Thanks to clay-heavy soil, unpredictable Midwest weather, and a mix of old and new home construction, water intrusion is a common concern for homeowners in the area. Whether it’s a small damp spot or a full-blown flood after a storm, the key to protecting your basement starts with choosing the right waterproofing method.

The two most common approaches are interior and exterior basement waterproofing. While both aim to keep your basement dry, how they work—and when they’re best used—differs significantly.

What Is Interior Basement Waterproofing?

Interior basement waterproofing is a system installed inside the basement to control and redirect water that has entered or is likely to enter through the walls or floor. It’s one of the most effective ways to protect a basement from ongoing seepage.

How Interior Waterproofing Works

Most interior systems include:

• A perimeter drainage channel installed along the inside of the basement floor
• A sump basin and sump pump to collect and remove water
• Vapor barriers or wall panels to keep moisture from entering the living space
• Optional crack injection to seal wall or floor cracks

Water that leaks through foundation walls or under the floor slab is collected in the drainage channel and directed to the sump pump, which then ejects the water safely outside and away from the home.

When Interior Waterproofing Makes Sense

Interior waterproofing is ideal for:

• Homes with recurring water seepage or damp walls
• Basements with existing finished spaces
• Budget-conscious homeowners needing a minimally invasive solution
• Repairing issues without excavating around the house

For Westmont homes with signs of water after rainfall, musty odors, mold growth, or visible cracks, interior waterproofing is often the most practical first step.

What Is Exterior Basement Waterproofing?

Exterior waterproofing focuses on stopping water from ever reaching the basement walls. It’s installed on the outside of the foundation and is often considered the most comprehensive solution for severe or recurring water problems.

How Exterior Waterproofing Works

Exterior systems typically involve:

• Excavating the soil around the foundation to expose the wall
• Applying a waterproof membrane or coating to the exterior surface
• Installing a drainage board and footing-level drain tile system
• Backfilling the trench with clean gravel or soil

This method creates a physical barrier between groundwater and your foundation. It prevents water from building up against the basement walls in the first place, which reduces pressure and keeps the structure dry.

When Exterior Waterproofing Is Best

Exterior systems are recommended for:

• Homes with major water intrusion or flooding
• Foundations with structural cracks or signs of shifting
• New construction or major renovation projects
• Long-term prevention for homes with grading or soil issues

While more labor-intensive and costly than interior solutions, exterior waterproofing can offer full perimeter protection and peace of mind—especially for Westmont homes with clay soil and shallow foundations.

Comparing Interior vs Exterior Waterproofing

Cost and Disruption

• Interior: Typically more affordable and less invasive. Work is done inside, so there’s no need to dig up landscaping or driveways.
• Exterior: More expensive due to excavation and materials. Yards may need to be regraded or restored afterward.

Effectiveness

• Interior: Excellent at managing water after it enters. Helps keep basements dry and usable but doesn’t stop hydrostatic pressure from building outside.
• Exterior: Stops water before it reaches the walls. Reduces long-term stress on the foundation and offers structural protection.

Installation Time

• Interior: Usually completed within 2–4 days.
• Exterior: May take 5–10 days depending on weather, soil, and access.

Lifespan and Maintenance

• Interior: Sump pumps and drain systems may require periodic checks and replacement.
• Exterior: Once installed, exterior membranes and drains are low-maintenance and long-lasting.

Which Waterproofing Method Is Right for Your Westmont Home?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. In many cases, the best waterproofing plan combines elements of both systems, especially if your home is dealing with multiple water entry points or severe drainage issues.

Here’s how to evaluate your needs:

• If water appears after heavy rains or along basement floor edges → Interior waterproofing is likely sufficient.
• If water is entering through cracks or saturating large areas of wall → Exterior waterproofing may be the better option.
• If you’re planning major landscaping, additions, or foundation repair → Consider exterior work during construction.

At Accu-Dry, we conduct thorough basement inspections to assess your foundation, soil conditions, and water behavior. We’ll walk you through your options, costs, and expected results before recommending a tailored solution.

The Westmont Advantage with Accu-Dry

As a local basement waterproofing expert, Accu-Dry understands the specific soil composition, climate, and construction styles common in Westmont homes. We’ve seen the full range of water problems, from minor seepage to fully flooded basements.

When you work with our team, you get:

• Free basement inspections and pressure-free consultations
• Honest assessments of both interior and exterior solutions
• Warrantied systems designed for long-term protection
• Local technicians who care about your home like it’s their own

Keep Water Out Before It Becomes a Bigger Problem

Water damage is easier to prevent than to repair. Whether you’re already dealing with a wet basement or simply want to prepare your home before the next heavy storm, now is the time to act.

Contact Accu-Dry today to schedule your free basement waterproofing inspection. We’ll help you determine whether interior, exterior, or a combination of both methods is the right fit for your Westmont home.