Exterior Basement Waterproofing

Basement Waterproofing Membrane Solutions

A dry basement isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. When moisture starts seeping through your foundation walls, it threatens your structure, air quality, and peace of mind. That’s why we recommend basement waterproofing membranes as one of the most effective ways to protect your home from unwanted water.

At Bramwell-McKay Property Services & Consultants, we install waterproofing membranes designed to form a continuous barrier around your basement, shielding your foundation from the outside elements. Our team is always prepared to protect your home from the ground up.

What Is a Basement Waterproofing Membrane and Why Does It Work?

A waterproofing membrane is a specialized material applied to your home’s foundation walls to prevent water from entering your basement. These membranes are typically installed on the exterior of the wall and act as a barrier between your home and the surrounding soil.

There are two primary types of membranes:

Liquid Membranes
Liquid membranes are brushed or sprayed directly onto the surface of your foundation wall and cure into a seamless, rubber-like coating. Their flexibility makes them ideal for uneven or textured surfaces, including detailed areas like corners and joints. Because they form a continuous barrier without seams, they’re especially effective at sealing hard-to-reach spaces.
Sheet or Roll Membranes
These membranes come in peel-and-stick rolls that are applied in overlapping layers to create a uniform, sealed surface. Sheet membranes offer consistent thickness, making them ideal for smooth walls or clean surfaces found in new construction. They’re highly resistant to tears and punctures, providing strong protection during and after installation.

Schedule a consultation with one of our experts to learn more about which type of membrane will work best for your foundation waterproofing.

The Membrane Installation Process

Before we apply any membrane, the foundation needs to be fully prepared. This includes cleaning, inspecting, and repairing the wall to ensure the surface is ready for long-term adhesion and performance.

Here’s a look at our waterproofing process:

Surface Preparation: Cleaning and Adhesion Test

The wall is cleared of cement, dust, loose particles, and any damaged material that could affect adhesion. An adhesion test may be performed to confirm the surface is suitable for long-term bonding. We also reinforce corners, joints, and transitions to prepare for a strong, continuous seal.

Waterproofing Membrane Application: Creating the Barrier

For liquid membrane systems, the material is applied by brush or spray to a minimum thickness, ensuring consistent coverage over the whole wall. For sheet membranes, rolls are laid out carefully and pressed into place with special attention to seams and overlaps.

Protective Layering: Guarding Against Future Damage

After the membrane is applied, it’s covered with a protective barrier to prevent the membrane from being damaged during backfilling or settling over time.

Final Steps: Finishing the Waterproofing System

To support the membrane’s performance, a drainage system like a footing drain may be installed along the base of the wall. Once everything is in place, the area is carefully backfilled, maintaining the proper slope to direct water away from the structure.

When to Update Your Foundation Waterproofing

Most homeowners don’t think about exterior waterproofing until visible signs of trouble appear. But early action can help prevent bigger problems later. Here are the six most common signs that it's time to consider a reliable waterproofing membrane.

Moisture or Water Stains on Interior Walls
Damp spots, discolored paint, or water marks on your basement walls are often a sign that moisture has found its way through your foundation wall.
Musty Smell or Visible Mold
Basement waterproofing membranes help eliminate the source of dampness, keeping your air cleaner and your space healthier.
Cracks in the Foundation
When water begins to seep through cracks in your foundation, it's a clear sign that your current waterproofing system isn't doing its job.
New Construction or Additions
If you’re building a new home or adding onto an existing one, it’s much easier and more cost-effective to apply waterproofing before backfilling.
Poor Drainage or Sloped Lots
These conditions increase water pressure on your foundation walls, making a waterproofing membrane essential for protecting against long-term damage.
Repeated Basement Flooding
Multiple floods suggest a serious issue. A membrane system paired with proper drainage offers a lasting fix that prevents repeat damage.

Even if you’re already facing water intrusion, damage, or a system that hasn’t held up, it’s not too late. We’ll meet you where you are, thoroughly explain your options, and help you take the next step with confidence.

Protecting Foundation Walls for Four Decades

Bramwell-McKay Property Services & Consultants has been helping homeowners protect their basements, foundations, and living spaces for nearly 40 years.
We take the time to evaluate your structure, inspect your site, and explain the best path forward—not just the easiest. Our team uses high-performance products and installs them with care, following proven procedures that stand up to time and pressure.

You’re not just hiring someone to apply a membrane. You’re choosing a partner who understands the responsibility that comes with protecting your home.

Get an Honest Evaluation of Your Basement

If your home is showing signs of water trouble or you want to prevent issues before they start, the right basement waterproofing membrane can make all the difference. Our team is ready to assess your foundation, recommend the right system, and install it the right way. Talk to one of our experts today to schedule your waterproofing consultation.