Even newer homes aren’t immune to waterproofing problems—especially when hydrostatic pressure comes into play.
Wilworks Renovations was recently called in to assess a North Oshawa waterproofing issue in a home built only 15 years ago. Despite its age, the basement was taking on water, not from wall cracks or surface flooding, but from underneath the floor itself.
Here’s how we diagnosed the issue, designed a custom waterproofing system, and delivered long-lasting peace of mind to a local homeowner.
The Problem: Water Coming Up Through the Basement Floor
Our client had noticed water pooling in the basement, despite there being no leaks visible in the walls or foundation. After some initial investigation, it became clear that this wasn’t a typical surface water issue.
The real culprit? Hydrostatic pressure: the force of groundwater pushing upward against the foundation. In this case, it was so strong that water was coming up through the basement floor slab. We foresee many North Oshawa waterproofing jobs in the near future due to this exact issue.
Step 1: Site Inspection and Scope Planning
We began with a full inspection to confirm what we were dealing with:
No foundation wall cracks
No failed window wells or exterior grading issues
Water visible along basement floor seams and corners
Based on water staining and our moisture readings, it was clear that hydrostatic pressure from the water table was the issue. The property sits in a newer development with poor natural drainage, which meant water was likely pooling underground, trapped with nowhere to go.
Step 2: Trenching Around the Interior Perimeter
To address the issue from below, we needed to relieve the pressure.
We began by cutting a trench along the full interior perimeter of the basement. This gave us access below the floor slab and created space to install a drainage system that would intercept groundwater before it could reach the living space.
While digging, we could see firsthand just how high the water table was; it sat just inches below the foundation slab.
Step 3: Installing the Drainage Piping
Next came the drainage system. We installed perforated weeping tile along the trench, which will now collect any water building up beneath the slab. This piping channels water directly to the new sump pump basin, providing an outlet and relieving pressure.
To ensure long-term performance, we surrounded the piping in clean gravel to keep the system flowing freely and reduce clogging from fine soil.
Step 4: Dimpled Membrane Installation
With the drainage in place, we turned our attention to protecting the basement walls.
We installed a dimpled waterproofing membrane along the entire exposed wall face and down into the trench. This material acts as a drainage plane – any water that gets past the wall now runs safely into the weeping tile, rather than pooling against the foundation or seeping inside.
The dimples also create an air gap, helping moisture escape and promoting drying.
Step 5: Sump Pump Installation
The heart of the system is the sump pump, which actively removes any collected groundwater. We installed a high-capacity pump in a new basin, complete with a battery backup in case of power outages.
The sump pump discharge was carefully routed to direct water away from the home’s foundation, keeping future groundwater from recycling back into the soil around the house.
Step 6: Concrete Restoration
Once the waterproofing components were in place and fully tested, we restored the basement slab.
We poured new concrete to cover the trench and sealed all edges cleanly to blend with the existing floor. The finished product looks great and more importantly, performs flawlessly.
The Result: Dry, Safe, and Future-Proofed
This North Oshawa homeowner no longer has to worry about a wet basement or hidden moisture damage. Their new waterproofing system handles groundwater proactively, and the sump pump keeps the home safe, even in heavy rain or spring thaw.
If you live in a newer development in North Oshawa, don’t assume your basement is safe just because the home is “new enough.” Poor drainage, high water tables, and hydrostatic pressure can affect homes even within the first 10–20 years.
Why Choose Wilworks Renovations?
At Wilworks Renovations, we don’t just slap on a quick fix. We investigate the real problem, design a tailored solution, and stand behind our work. That’s how we handled this North Oshawa waterproofing project, and how we handle every waterproofing job we take on.
We’ve handled complex waterproofing, basement renovations, and foundation repairs all over Durham Region including homes in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and Courtice.
If you’ve noticed musty smells, pooling water, or mysterious moisture in your basement, don’t wait.
Contact us today to schedule an assessment and protect your biggest investment—your home.
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