A foundation may be built from concrete, but without proper waterproofing and drainage, it’s still vulnerable to moisture problems over time.
That’s why protecting a basement starts immediately after the foundation walls are poured—not after the home is finished.
On a recent project in Burnaby, we completed the Quad-Lock insulated concrete form (ICF) foundation and moved on to one of the most important stages of construction: waterproofing and preparing the foundation for backfill.
Here’s how we help keep water away from the home.
Choosing Waterproofing Over Damp-Proofing
Not every foundation receives the same level of protection.
Many homes are built with a standard damp-proofing spray, which is designed to resist moisture in normal soil conditions.
On this project, however, the site doesn’t drain naturally after heavy rain. Because groundwater has a greater chance of collecting around the foundation; we chose a more robust waterproofing system instead.
Selecting the right protection based on site conditions is one of the most important decisions a builder can make.
Adding a Dimpled Membrane
After the waterproofing membrane has cured, we install a dimpled drainage membrane over the exterior of the foundation.
This layer creates a small air gap between the soil and the waterproofed wall, acting as a capillary break.
Instead of allowing water to remain against the concrete, the membrane directs it downward where it can safely reach the perimeter drain tile.
This extra layer also helps protect the waterproofing membrane during backfilling.
Creating Better Drainage with Clear Crushed Rock
Drainage doesn’t stop at the wall.
Before backfilling, we surround the foundation with ¾-inch clear crushed rock.
Unlike soil, clear crushed rock allows water to move freely through the spaces between the stones.
This creates another capillary break around the foundation, reducing hydrostatic pressure and directing groundwater toward the drain tile instead of allowing it to collect against the wall.
The result is a drier, better-protected basement.
Planning Ahead with Service Blockouts
Good construction is about preparing for the next phase before it begins.
Before the basement slab is poured, blockouts are installed for future plumbing and electrical services.
These openings remain below the finished slab, allowing future trades to complete their rough-ins without unnecessary cutting or modifications.
Planning these service routes early helps keep the project organized and avoids costly rework later.
Protecting the Window Wells
One area that’s often overlooked is the concrete window well.
Window wells contain snap-tie holes left behind during the concrete forming process. If these areas aren’t properly protected, moisture can find its way through over time, potentially leading to rust staining or water infiltration.
To prevent this, we continue both the waterproofing membrane and the dimpled drainage membrane around the window wells.
This provides continuous protection and helps keep moisture out of one of the foundation’s more vulnerable areas.
Building a Foundation That Lasts
A dry basement doesn’t depend on one product—it depends on an integrated system.
On this Burnaby project, that system includes:
- A waterproofing membrane selected for the site’s drainage conditions
- A dimpled membrane to create a capillary break
- ¾-inch clear crushed rock to improve drainage
- Perimeter drain tile to carry water away
- Service blockouts planned before the slab is poured
- Waterproofed window wells for added protection
Each layer works together to manage water before it ever has a chance to reach the interior of the home.
At Clay Construction, we believe the best waterproofing strategy is proactive, not reactive. By investing in the right materials and thoughtful planning from the beginning, we help create foundations that stay dry, durable, and built to perform for decades.
— Larry Clay
The Clay Way™
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