Foundation Waterproofing

Foundation Waterproofing protects slabs, walls, and interior finishes from long‑term water damage. For over 22 years, Water Hydraulics Expert Jeff Earl has designed and installed systems for thousands of residential, commercial, and institutional projects. At Foundation Waterproofing 101, we stop water at its source and back every project with a lifetime transferable warranty.
See the Foundation Waterproofing Florida Hub for statewide education and related services.
Why Foundation Waterproofing Is Critical
- Water = #1 failure driver: Negative grading and standing water create hydrostatic pressure that cracks walls and slabs.
- Slab & wall protection: Moisture causes efflorescence, mold, finish damage, and structural movement if left unchecked.
- Small leaks grow: Minor seepage today can become structural repairs within months–years, multiplying costs.
- Vapor barrier limits: Even code barriers degrade over time; proactive waterproofing is the long‑term fix.
Common Water Entry Points

- Hydrostatic pressure through block or cold joints
- Groundwater/springs beneath slabs
- Missing or failed interior/exterior footer drains
- Bowing/leaning walls from drainage failure
- Improperly installed window wells
- Cracks in concrete, masonry, or basement floors
Our Foundation Waterproofing Solutions
- Exterior Systems: membranes, coatings, footer drains, discharge routing
- Interior Systems: sump pumps, drain channels, vapor barriers
- Basement Waterproofing: wall systems, crack injection, floor drains
- Crawl Space Waterproofing: encapsulation, dehumidification
- Structural Reinforcement (as needed): pressure grouting, wall bracing, piering
Service Workflow (Start to Finish)
- 1. Inspection: moisture mapping, elevation/grade checks, drainage review
- 2. Diagnosis: identify sources (surface, subsurface, or structural)
- 3. Design: select interior/exterior systems and discharge paths
- 4. Installation: clean, code‑compliant, minimally invasive
- 5. Warranty & Documentation: lifetime transferable coverage and maintenance tips
Related Services & Internal Links
- Foundation Repair – settlement, piering, pressure grouting
- Drainage Problems – regrading, yard drains, downspout systems
- Basement Waterproofing – below‑grade protection
- Crawl Space Waterproofing – encapsulation & humidity control
- Foundation Waterproofing Florida (Hub) – statewide education
Why Choose Foundation Waterproofing 101
- Experience: 22+ years and thousands of projects
- Water Hydraulics Expertise: engineered solutions, not band‑aids
- Transparent Scope: clear diagnoses, photos, and line‑item estimates
- Lifetime Value: transferable warranty that supports resale
Florida’s Code Gap & Why Engineered Waterproofing Matters
Florida has no dedicated below-grade waterproofing code. The Florida Building Code only requires the first living floor to be at least 12 inches above finished grade — but once a foundation is below the seasonal high water table, there is no mandated standard for keeping water out. Many homes depend on thin vapor barriers that typically degrade within 8–12 years, letting groundwater and hydrostatic pressure attack slabs and walls. Our team, led by water hydraulics engineer Jeff Earl, bridges this gap with engineered waterproofing solutions built for Florida’s extreme water conditions.
Protecting Long-Term Property Value & Resale
Water intrusion doesn’t just create discomfort — it can reduce home value by 10–15% and trigger disclosure obligations during resale. Every system we install is backed by a Lifetime Transferable Warranty, giving owners documented proof of a dry foundation and peace of mind for future buyers. Acting early avoids $20,000–$40,000+ structural repairs that often follow long-term hydrostatic pressure and settlement.
Request Your Free Waterproofing Inspection
- Call (813) 614-4830
- We inspect and diagnose the source of moisture
- Receive a written plan, photos, and a lifetime‑warranty proposal
Foundation Waterproofing FAQ
Does the Florida Building Code require below-grade waterproofing?
No. The Florida Building Code (FBC) does not include any dedicated waterproofing standards. In Florida — where the seasonal high water table can sit just a few feet below grade — a foundation must be designed almost like “building a boat” underground to stay dry.
Do I need a building permit to waterproof a foundation?
No. Waterproofing itself, including sump pumps and exterior drainage systems, does not require a building permit in Florida. Only structural modifications such as rebuilding or reinforcing walls would trigger permitting.
How much does professional foundation waterproofing cost in Florida?
Comprehensive engineered waterproofing typically ranges from $20,000–$40,000 depending on groundwater depth, access, and drainage design. Acting before cracks and settlement develop usually keeps total repair costs lower.
Why is experience critical for waterproofing in Florida?
Because Florida has no waterproofing code, success depends on field-proven engineering. An experienced contractor who understands local soils, water tables, and drainage failures can design a system that lasts for decades and protects resale value.
Disclosure matters: water issues must be disclosed when selling—fix them now and keep the value & For more on national waterproofing standards, see resources from the
U.S. Department of Energy
and EPA Mold & Moisture Guidance.
;