Basement waterproofing - How to find the right solution for damp walls

Differences at a glance

The following table shows the most important differences - i.e. the opposite - between the two types of sealing:

Various methods are available for basement waterproofing, such as internal and external waterproofing, vertical barriers or horizontal barriers, which should be selected depending on the situation and moisture load. Groundwater ingress in particular is a common cause of pressing damp and requires special waterproofing measures.

Sealing from the outside: when does it make sense?

External waterproofing is a proven method of effectively protecting basement walls from moisture. The exterior basement wall plays a central role here, as it serves as the first barrier against water penetrating from the side when installing waterproofing. This method is particularly recommended for basements that lie deep in the ground or whose walls are exposed to heavy loads from the surrounding soil. By applying high-quality waterproofing materials to the basement wall, a reliable barrier is created against penetrating moisture. This form of basement waterproofing protects the masonry in the long term and prevents moisture from coming into contact with the wall in the first place. As professional execution is crucial for effectiveness, external waterproofing should always be carried out by an experienced specialist. This ensures that all requirements and building regulations are met and that the basement is optimally protected against moisture and the masonry is permanently protected.

How cellar waterproofing works from the inside with Isofin

With Isofin, you can seal basement walls from the inside - without digging, dirt or construction work. A clean, dry and stable substrate is essential for effective waterproofing, as this is the only way to ensure lasting effectiveness; careful preparation of various substrates is particularly important. Before applying the waterproofing, a suitable primer is also recommended to improve the adhesion of the waterproofing layer and optimize the moisture barrier. Bitumen emulsion can be used as a base material for elastic protective layers in waterproofing and offers a weather-resistant, flexible solution. The process utilizes the capillary structure of the masonry and provides a durable hydrophobic barrier layer inside the wall. Additional insulation helps to minimize energy losses and protects the structural waterproofing in the long term. Successful waterproofing also improves the indoor climate and creates a pleasant, usable environment.

Application in 3 steps

1. Drill holes:
   Drill every 25 cm in a row just above the cellar floor at an angle downwards.
2. Insert Isofin bottles:
   Screw on the special cap and insert the bottle into the drilled hole. The liquid flows in without pressure.
3. Wait & seal:
   As soon as the bottle is empty, remove it, seal the drill hole with mortar - done.

Easy to use with 25 cm drill hole spacing

How much Isofin do I need?

Use our free requirements calculator to calculate the exact quantity of Isofin for your wall - simply enter the length, thickness and number of corners and you're done.

• Calculation of the number of bottles required
• Price overview and direct purchase possible
• Ideal for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts

Special masonry - no problem for Isofin

Isofin works with almost all mineral wall types:

• Brick masonry
• Sand-lime brick
• Natural stone/quarry stone
• Aerated concrete (gas concrete)
• Concrete (with adjustment of drilling distances)

Isofin is not only suitable for walls, but can also be used to seal basement floors to effectively protect them from moisture and mold growth.

Isofin can also be used to seal various components of the basement, such as external walls or floor slabs. Individual areas of the masonry, such as damaged or particularly damp parts, can also be specifically sealed.

Basement waterproofing materials and tools: what is needed?

Choosing the right materials and tools is crucial for a successful basement renovation - all the necessary materials and tools should be provided to enable successful waterproofing. The most important waterproofing agents include special waterproofing emulsions, which are applied as liquid waterproofing, as well as waterproofing slurries, which provide additional protection for the masonry against moisture. In addition, protective foils and perimeter insulation boards are used to insulate the basement walls and foundations against moisture and cold. Tools such as spades and shovels are required to expose the cellar wall, as well as plastering equipment and trowels to apply the sealant.

Careful preparation of the substrate is particularly important to ensure optimum adhesion of the waterproofing materials and to guarantee a durable renovation. Plaster and in particular restoration plaster play a central role in the surface treatment of basement walls, as they help to regulate moisture and protect the walls in the long term. Screed is essential when leveling basement floors after waterproofing to eliminate unevenness and create a stable base for further work.

Health and safety in basement waterproofing

Safety and health are paramount in all work relating to basement waterproofing. Make sure you wear suitable protective clothing such as gloves, safety goggles and, if necessary, respiratory protection to protect yourself from dust, chemicals and other hazards. Ensure good ventilation in the basement, especially if you are working with waterproofing materials or other products that can release vapors.

To prevent damage to the walls and floor during the work, it is advisable to lay out a protective sheet and cover sensitive areas. Read the instructions for the materials used carefully and adhere to the recommended safety measures. Use all products only in well-ventilated areas and store chemicals safely away from living areas. With careful preparation and the right protective equipment, you can create a safe working environment and minimize the risk of accidents or health problems during basement waterproofing.

Execution and control: How to seal step by step

Careful execution and control of the basement waterproofing is crucial to permanently protect your basement from moisture and damage. Start by thoroughly cleaning and preparing the substrate - only then will the waterproofing materials adhere optimally and take full effect. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for each step of the waterproofing process to avoid mistakes and ensure the effectiveness of the measure.

Apply the sealing materials evenly and in the recommended layer thickness. After completing the work, you should check the waterproofing for leaks and function. It is advisable to document the individual steps and materials used - this way you can later see which measures were carried out and make targeted improvements if necessary. Check the basement waterproofing regularly to identify any weak points or new sources of moisture at an early stage. With careful execution and consistent monitoring, you can ensure that your basement remains dry in the long term and that the building fabric of your home is optimally protected.

Costs for basement waterproofing: what should you expect?

The cost of a basement renovation depends on various factors, such as the size of the basement, the planned use of the basement rooms, the chosen waterproofing method and the condition of the masonry. For waterproofing from the outside, you should expect to pay between 150 and 300 euros per square meter. If the basement is waterproofed from the inside, the costs are usually between 200 and 400 euros per running meter. Added to this are the costs of materials such as waterproofing emulsions, waterproofing slurries and insulation boards, as well as the tools required. Professional waterproofing reliably protects the exterior walls of the building from moisture and thus prevents long-term problems. The total costs can vary depending on the scope of the measures and the use of specialist companies. The most reliable way to obtain an exact cost estimate is to consult a specialist who will take into account the individual circumstances of your basement and the measures required for renovation. In the case of a professional basement renovation, the costs for any additional work on the basement floor should also be taken into account, particularly in order to avoid subsequent costs due to damage caused by inadequate waterproofing.

Avoid mold growth: Tips for a healthy indoor climate

Mold in the basement is usually caused by a combination of moisture and a lack of ventilation. An important tip: Ventilate the basement regularly and intermittently to effectively prevent mold growth. To prevent mold growth and the associated damage to the masonry, it is important to ventilate the basement regularly and ensure that the walls and basement floor are sufficiently dry. Check the relative humidity in the basement and, if necessary, take measures to reduce humidity, such as using dehumidifiers. Make sure that there are no objects directly against the basement walls so that the air can circulate. A regular inspection of the basement room helps to identify sources of moisture at an early stage and eliminate them in a targeted manner. In this way, you can create a healthy indoor climate and protect the building fabric of your basement from mold and other damage in the long term, which not only protects the basement, but also the entire house.

Conclusion: Waterproofing basement walls - do it yourself or use a specialist company?

If you want to waterproof your basement, you should first clarify whether there is pressing or non-pressing moisture. Various basement waterproofing measures, such as the waterproofing of basement walls, floor slabs or special building protection measures, are crucial to permanently prevent damp, rising damp and moisture damage. In many cases - especially in the case of rising damp - Isofin is the ideal solution. A basement renovation not only includes waterproofing, but also the elimination of the causes of damp, the selection of suitable waterproofing methods and the consideration of costs and possible subsidies in order to make the basement dry and energy-efficient in the long term.

• Waterproofing cellar walls from the inside
• Easy to use
• Lasting effect
• Significantly cheaper than specialist companies (cost savings of up to 70 %)

If, on the other hand, there is penetrating damp, we will help you find a suitable specialist company or advise you individually on suitable remediation methods.

Your next steps:

1. 🔍 Determine the type of moisture (see table)
2. 📏 Use the Isofin calculator - calculate requirements
3. 🛠 Waterproofing the basement from the inside - with step-by-step instructions
4. 📞 In the event of pressing moisture: contact the hotline - we can help

Detailed instructions are available for all the steps mentioned, explaining each work step, the materials required and helpful tips in detail. This allows you to significantly reduce the costs of a professional basement renovation.