Foundation crack repair / Exterior Waterproofing Membrane for Foundation Walls
Exterior Waterproofing Membrane for Foundation Walls in Houston, TX
Protects foundation walls from water intrusion by applying a durable waterproof membrane on the exterior side before backfilling.
Foundation walls in Houston often show dampness, white mineral deposits (efflorescence), or standing water after rain because saturated clay pushes hydrostatic pressure against the wall. This moisture can make a basement smell musty, cause wood rot on sill plates, and lead to mold on interior finishes. Homeowners also notice peeling paint, soft drywall near the floor, and a persistent damp feeling in humid months.
The crew excavates a trench along the exterior foundation wall down to the footing. After cleaning the wall, they repair visible cracks with hydraulic cement and apply a primer. A thick, self-adhesive or liquid-applied waterproof membrane (rubberized asphalt or polymer-modified bitumen) is installed from the footing up above grade. A dimple drainage board is added to create an air gap that channels water to a footer drain. The trench is backfilled with clean gravel, a perforated drain line is placed, and the grade is sloped away from the house.
Costs are driven mainly by excavation labor and membrane material, especially when the wall is deep or access is tight. A City of Houston site-work permit is required, with fees based on project size. The price rises if extensive crack repair, landscape removal, or neighbor coordination is needed. After heavy rains, saturated clay heightens hydrostatic pressure, accelerating interior damage, so timely action is cost-effective.
Foundation crack repair service categories
Other or unspecified
- Helical Pier Installation for Foundation Settlement - Stops foundation settlement and restores level by driving heavy-duty steel helical piers into stable soil below the active clay zone.
- Exterior Waterproofing Membrane for Foundation Walls - Protects foundation walls from water intrusion by applying a durable waterproof membrane on the exterior side before backfilling.
Common questions
Can the exterior membrane be installed without removing interior drywall?
Yes - the membrane is applied to the outside of the foundation wall, so interior drywall stays intact. However, any water that has already entered the basement may have damaged interior finishes, which would need separate remediation after the exterior work is complete.
How long will an exterior waterproofing membrane last and does it need maintenance?
A properly installed membrane can last 20-30 years. Maintenance is limited to keeping the exterior drainage system clean, ensuring gutters and downspouts direct water away, and periodically checking the grade to confirm it still slopes away from the foundation. Any damage to the membrane from root intrusion or heavy equipment should be repaired promptly.
Related help
More Foundation crack repair · All services · Service areas
Call (713) 930-4089 to request contact from a local provider.
This site is a referral service that connects consumers with independent local service providers. We do not perform the advertised work and cannot guarantee provider availability, licensing, pricing, warranties, or results.