Waterproofing

Keeping Water Out: Waterproofing Basics for Ohio Homes

Water in the basement often starts at the foundation wall. Learn the basics of exterior waterproofing for Ohio homes and when to have your foundation looked at.

4 min readUpdated September 21, 2026

Illustrative image of waterproof coating applied to a foundation wall

Most water problems start where the foundation meets the soil. Exterior waterproofing applies a protective coating to the foundation wall to help keep water out. If you see damp spots, musty smells, or water after heavy rain, have the foundation looked at — Concrete Masonry LLC provides waterproofing across Cuyahoga, Lorain, and Medina Counties.

Where the water comes from

Ohio gets plenty of rain and snowmelt, and all of that water ends up in the soil around your foundation. Concrete and masonry foundations are porous, so water pressed against the wall can slowly work its way through.

Cracks in the foundation or deteriorated mortar joints give water an even easier path.

What exterior waterproofing does

Exterior waterproofing typically involves exposing the foundation wall and applying a waterproof coating to it, so water in the soil is blocked before it can reach the wall.

It is often paired with masonry repairs when the wall itself has damage that needs attention first.

Signs you should have your foundation looked at

Damp or discolored basement walls, a musty smell that gets worse after rain, efflorescence (white mineral deposits) on the walls, and visible cracks are all worth a look.

Describe what you are seeing when you request an estimate, and the right approach for your home will be reviewed with you.

Frequently asked questions

Can waterproofing be combined with other repairs?

Yes. Waterproofing is often paired with masonry or foundation repairs. Mention everything you are seeing when you request an estimate.

Do you handle interior waterproofing?

Describe your situation when you request an estimate and the options for your home will be reviewed with you.

Learn about Waterproofing

Want John to review your project?

Concrete and masonry in Cuyahoga, Lorain, and Medina Counties. Confirm estimate availability with John.