But even these foundations need protection to keep moisture from migrating up from the ground through the slab (see Vapor Barriers for Concrete Slabs). Other areas, with high annual rainfall, high water tables, and no frost in the soil, more commonly use slab-on-grade foundations. Some areas with drier climates and lower water tables regularly build basements with foundation walls that may be 10 feet tall. Local conditions vary widely and help determine the right choice for preventing water infiltration. Obviously, if there is any doubt about whether or not dampproofing will do the job, it's best to spend the extra time and money to waterproof, particularly for habitable space. Waterproofing a foundation requires the same care as dampproofing in regard to surface treatment and drain pipe, but is much more exacting in the treatment of the wall itself. Nearly all waterproofing products can be applied to concrete block as well as poured concrete walls, and most of the same concerns and practical tips are relevant. But damp-proofing will only retard moisture it can't stop a head of water bearing against the foundation. Waterproofing isn't pretty, and since it's going to get buried anyway, it's easy to skimp and go for damp-proofing instead, painting on that old black stuff that comes in a bucket. But with proper surface drainage, correctly installed foundation drains at the footing, and the absence of hydrostatic pressure to drive water infiltration, dampproofing can supply adequate and long-lasting protection for many crawl spaces and basements. The drawbacks include an inability to seal larger cracks or holes left by form ties and the potential for damage by coarse or careless backfill. Though less frequently recommended in modern residential construction, it is still an acceptable form of treatment in many situations. Waterproofing is only required by the IRC "in areas where a high water table or other severe soil-water conditions are known to exist."ĭampproofing is a coating, usually asphalt-based, that is either sprayed on or hand applied to the outside of the wall. Any concrete or masonry foundation walls "that retain earth and enclose interior spaces and floors below grade shall be dampproofed from the top of the footing to the finished grade." The IRC then provides a list of the permissible materials, which include bituminous coating and acrylic-modified cement.
#NOOBPROOF VS WATERROOF CODE#
The International Residential Code (IRC), in Section R406, specifies the conditions that require either dampproofing or waterproofing. Shop for waterproofing products & vapor barriers designed to protect your foundation.īuildings have been dampproofed for years, a practice that used to be mistakenly referred to as waterproofing.
Dampproofing is intended to keep out soil moisture while waterproofing keeps out both moisture and liquid water. There is a distinct difference between dampproofing and waterproofing.
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