History of Basement Waterproofing
Surprisingly, basement waterproofing has been around for hundreds of years. While the techniques may not the same or as advanced, since the beginning of basements, there have been methods of preventing or eliminating water from entering the area. The first liquid waterproofing mechanisms, such as bitumen, can be traced back to the biblical era. More advanced methods of basement waterproofing, such as cellar drainage, have been recorded as early as 1800.
A Little USA History On Basement Waterproofing
During this time in the United States, cellars and basements were primarily used to store extra food and other agricultural needs. Water problems were persistent, which lead to the introduction of advanced basement waterproofing. Drain tiles were implemented in farms, and was even explained in the book “Farm Drainage” by Henry French. His design for the “French Drain” was popular amongst farmers and those with extensive cellar usage, in order to properly drain incoming water.
In the more damp areas of the Midwest, Northeast, and South, basement waterproofing became more commonplace. Typically, families started up their own basement waterproofing businesses, and passed on their trades to each generation. Some companies that started as early as 1920 still exist today.
In the 1970’s, the basement waterproofing franchise business started to boom. A multitude of contractors started specializing in basement waterproofing at this time, typically because it was unregulated and brought in incredible profits. The downfall of this profitable skill was that many contractors were too quick to start working, and were improperly trained. A lot of the original methods of basement waterproofing were abandoned, due to the lack of knowledge being passed down, and many companies becoming more and more unprofessional.
Over the next 20-30 years, technology managed to catch up with the art of basement waterproofing. Chemists and manufacturers developed new products to better serve basement repairs, also creating more professional and certified contractors. The Basement Health Association was created, and anyone looking to step into the basement waterproofing industry was regulated by a high set of standards.
Basement Waterproofing Is Not Well Regulated And Requires You To Hire The Right Company
However, basement waterproofing is still somewhat unregulated today. Due to the endless possibilities of controlling water from entering a basement, it is hard to determine or say there is a right way for each house. However, while professionals can use several different methods for basement repair, standards are still set to ensure that construction is safe and effective.
Basement waterproofing has come a long way, and isn’t just about keeping the water out anymore. The professionals at Tom’s Basement Waterproofing always look for mold, air quality, radon, and pests as other extremities from basement leakage and water issues. With more energy efficient homes, basement waterproofing has been easier to maintain and the environment has benefited. As more basements become living spaces, rather than food storage, basement waterproofing is still a crucial and viable business, that we take very seriously.
Avoid Getting Tricked By Companies That Try To Sell Services You Really Don’t Need
Invest your money wisely and get a dry, strong basement. Your foundation depends on it. Your home depends on it. We have everything you need for interior and exterior basement waterproofing.
Your complete satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. That’s our business model, and that's why over 85% of our business comes from referrals!
With An A+ Rating From The Better Business Bureau

Since 1975, Tom’s Basement Waterproofing has been installing ALL types of waterproofing systems. We now have over 18,000 satisfied customers. Let us help you make the best decision to meet your interior basement waterproofing needs.
Basement leakage can result in serious weakness in the foundation, causing the foundation to settle and cause further damage. Water leakage and soil condition can also cause buckled walls, and a deterioration of the basement structure itself (Destroying your investment).

Our Services
All basement waterproofing systems are NOT the same. That's why you need an experienced basement waterproofing company and foundation repair team when disaster strikes your home or business. Do you really want to take a chance with the biggest investment of your life?
- • Guaranteed Basement Waterproofing
- • Interior Basement Waterproofing
- • Exterior Basement Waterproofing
- • Fixing Cracked And Bowed Walls
- • Permanently Fix Sinking Foundations
- • Quick And Cost-Saving Crack Injections
- • Experienced Wall Straightening
- • Interior Foundation Waterproofing
- • Trusted Storm Damage Repairs
- • Permanent Foundation Repair
- • Install Backup Sump Pumps
- • Experienced Basement Crack Repair
- • Wet And Leaking Basements
- • Quality Water Damage Repairs
- • Brick And Cement Repairs
- • Durable De-Humidification Systems
- • Guaranteed Home Waterproofing
- • Basement Waterproofing Solutions
