Waterproofing & Drainage

Utah Waterproofing & Drainage pricing. Keeping your basement dry starts here. This includes exterior membranes, drain tile, and gravel backfill to divert groundwater.

What’s Included

This category includes exterior foundation wall waterproofing membranes or coatings, foundation drains, gravel backfill, and basic dampproofing. Pricing varies significantly depending on whether you're using spray-on membrane, peel-and-stick, or fluid-applied systems. It also includes drain tile (perforated pipe), filter fabric, and gravel for water diversion around basement walls. Does not include sump pumps, interior drains, or foundation insulation.

Notes:

The sq. footage is basement footprint size only times the $/sq ft

Builder Tips:

Confirm whether your contractor is bidding dampproofing (basic tar spray) or full waterproofing (membrane system). If your lot has high water table, spring runoff, or poor drainage, invest in full waterproofing with dimple board or peel-and-stick.
Always slope soil away from the foundation and tie all exterior drain tile to daylight or a sump discharge. Verify that drain tile is wrapped in fabric and installed at footing level.

Real World Example:

A 2,100 sq ft basement with full-depth walls in Utah County:

$2.25–$3.25 per sq ft for membrane spray waterproofing
600 LF of drain tile + gravel trench: ~$4,000–$6,000
Total waterproofing and drainage cost: $9,000–$12,500 depending on access and soil type

FAQ

Q: What’s the difference between dampproofing and waterproofing?

A: Dampproofing is a basic spray-on asphalt coating. Waterproofing uses membranes or elastomeric systems to resist hydrostatic pressure.

Q: Is waterproofing required by code in Utah?

A: In most municipalities, dampproofing is the minimum requirement. Waterproofing is recommended in wet or high-risk sites.

Q: How do I know if I need full waterproofing?

A: Signs include a high water table, heavy clay soils, poor slope drainage, or homes with known basement seepage nearby.

Q: Should I install a sump pump?

A: If you're building on a wet lot or adding livable basement space, a sump system is a wise backup even if not code-required.