Which process is more effective and appropriate for my home? Both Damp Proofing and Water Proofing are effective in that they play an important role in minimizing the amount of water and moisture in buildings or homes. The method you choose often depends on which state you live in and if your home is constructed in an area with high levels of ground water. It’s important to understand the difference between these two processes.Though both Damp Proofing & Water Proofing involve preventing water and moisture from entering a building, damp proofing is done with a tar based or water based mixture to minimize vapor transmission, and water proofing functions as a rubber layer that prevents water penetration.

Damp Proofing: The process of damp proofing is done by sealing basements with a tar-based or an approved solvent or water-based mixture designed to prevent water from entering or adhering to the surface of the foundation. This works very well to prevent water from being absorbed by the concrete or basement material. Damp proofing is far less costly then waterproofing, although its results are sometimes only temporary.Depending on which state you live in, (say Pennsylvania for instance), you may not feel the need to water proof your foundation and decide damp proofing will do the job. Sometimes after a few years pass, cracks and crevices begin to appear naturally in the foundation and the damp proofing will crack along with it. If your basement sealers dries out, you may experience cracks and seepage within five to eight years. Tar based products have a higher probability of cracking below grade vs. a water-based sealer. However, this isn’t always the case. More builders are using damp proofing products because the porosity of poured and superior walls are more dense than traditional block walls and damp proofing is an effective solution for stopping water vapor transmission.

Water Proofing: Although water proofing is initially more expensive then damp proofing, it has many benefits. Water proofing can be a highly effective water preventative solution. A thin layer of rubber foundation sealer is applied to the area and it completely prevents moisture and water from penetrating any material.Unlike damp proofing which slows down the rate of water absorption, water proofing prevents it entirely.As mentioned, the foundations of houses and buildings can crack and shift over the years, but water proofing basement sealers settles into the cracks and stretches, continuing to effectively keep water out.If you live in Connecticut or an area with lots of ground water and moisture, water proofing would be necessary to keep your basement dry.

Besides its effectiveness, water proofing is environmentally friendly. The tar used to damp proof buildings can have a negative effect on the environment, whereas the natural rubber barrier from water proofing is sometimes a better solution. This isn’t always the case though, as several excellent water-based products are available for damp proofing. Water-based damp proofing products are just as effective as their tar counterparts and also environmentally friendly.

If you decide to waterproof your basement with a basement sealer or foundation sealer, you’ll prevent:

• Oversaturation from ground water
• Rain
• Excessive Humidity
• Snow

And all forms of bad weather, moisture, and damage from taking its toll on your foundation.

Basement damp proofing & water proofing protects your home's foundation to help you maintain its value, as well as prevent costly and serious water damage. The cleanup and after-effects of basement flooding can be a major problem and hassle for many homeowners. Although waterproofing your basement may initially seem expensive and perhaps even unnecessary, repairing damage caused by water will cost more than waterproofing your basement. It all depends on where you live and the levels of ground water and water infiltration your basement will experience. Both water proofing and damp proofing your basement are effective solutions. Find out the best basement sealing solution for your home!

Erica Ronchetti is a freelance writer for Deco Sealers, a manufacturer of 100% “Green” Damp Proofing & Water Proofing products.Our water proofing products can be applied both above and below grade lines.Visit our website to find out more information on basement sealers and foundation sealers!