Water in your basement can cause more than just inconvenience. It can lead to mould, damage to your home’s structure, and expensive repairs. For homeowners in Toronto, waterproofing your foundation is often necessary due to frequent rain, melting snow, and changing temperatures. But one question keeps arising—how much does it cost?
The price for foundation waterproofing in Toronto varies for each individual. Several factors influence the final amount, including the type of waterproofing method, the home’s condition, soil type, and others.
This blog breaks it all down so you can plan your project with confidence.
Table of Contents
How Much is the Price for Foundation Waterproofing in Toronto?
What Methods Are Used for Foundation Waterproofing?
What Is a Realistic Price Range in Toronto?
Can You Save Money on Foundation Waterproofing?
What Methods Are Used for Foundation Waterproofing?
The waterproofing method you choose largely affects the overall cost.
- Exterior Waterproofing involves digging around the foundation to apply waterproof barriers and install drainage. It’s more thorough and suited for major water issues.
- Interior Waterproofing manages water from inside using sump pumps, drainage systems, or sealants.
- Crack Injections are affordable fixes for minor cracks but may not solve larger problems.
For major water entry, exterior solutions are most effective. Smaller leaks can often be handled with interior methods or injections.
How Big Is Your Foundation?
Home size plays a key role in waterproofing costs. Larger foundations need more labor and materials, especially for exterior work, and pricing is often by the linear foot.
Typical costs:
- Exterior waterproofing: $100–$250/linear foot
- Interior waterproofing: $70–$100/linear foot
- Crack injection: $300–$800 per crack
Get a custom quote, but these ranges help estimate the price for foundation waterproofing based on your home’s size.
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Soil and Ground Conditions in Toronto
The soil around your home impacts how easily waterproofing can be done. Toronto properties often have a mix of clay and sandy soil. Clay holds water and puts more pressure on foundation walls. That means higher risk for leaks—and more work for the contractor.
If your home is surrounded by tough-to-dig soil or rock, it can raise the cost. Additional time and equipment might be needed to dig and install waterproofing systems safely. This is especially true for older Toronto neighbourhoods where basements are deeper and homes are close together.
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Accessibility and Landscaping Can Increase Costs
If your property has features like fences, patios, trees, or narrow spaces, these can make waterproofing more challenging. Contractors may need to remove and then replace those features, which adds to labour time and cost.
Also, if there’s limited space between homes, exterior digging becomes more difficult. In some areas, hand digging may be required—another factor that increases the cost of foundation waterproofing.
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Damage Beyond the Foundation May Add to the Final Bill
Waterproofing isn’t always a simple fix. If water has already entered your basement, other repairs may be needed:
- Replacing drywall or insulation
- Removing mold or mildew
- Installing dehumidifiers
- Fixing flooring and framing
These are separate from the actual waterproofing work but are often necessary to fully restore your basement. It’s a good idea to have your contractor inspect the interior of your home before starting work so you know what to expect.
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Permits and Rules in Toronto
In some cases, you’ll need a permit to complete foundation waterproofing, especially if it involves changes to drainage or structural components. Permit fees vary but can add a few hundred dollars to the cost of your project.
The good news? Most reputable contractors will handle permits for you. Just make sure they are familiar with Toronto’s local codes. A contractor who skips this step might be cutting corners.
What Is a Realistic Price Range in Toronto?
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you estimate:
- Exterior waterproofing: $10,000–$25,000 (depending on size and soil)
- Interior waterproofing: $5,000–$12,000
- Crack injection: $300–$800 per location
- Sump pump installation: $1,500–$3,000
If your foundation has multiple issues or if you need both interior and exterior waterproofing, expect to pay more. On the other hand, small crack injections and targeted repairs can keep costs low.
This is why obtaining multiple estimates is a smart move. Comparing services will give you a clear idea of the price for foundation waterproofing that matches your specific needs.
Can You Save Money on Foundation Waterproofing?
Yes, here are some useful tips:
- Catch problems early – Don’t wait for flooding. Small repairs cost less.
- Redirect water – Make sure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home.
- Fix grading issues – Ensure soil slopes away from your house.
- Work with experienced contractors – They can often recommend cost-effective solutions that don’t sacrifice quality.
Additionally, winter or fall can be a slower season for contractors, which may result in better pricing compared to the busy spring and summer months.
Final Thoughts
Foundation waterproofing is not just about fixing leaks—it’s about protecting your home’s structure, safety, and value. The price for foundation waterproofing in Toronto can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on your specific situation.
While it may seem like a significant investment, it’s often more cost-effective than repairing water damage after it occurs. If you’re a homeowner in Toronto and see signs of water entry or damp walls, it’s worth getting a professional inspection.
Ensure you obtain quotes from trusted local experts, such as DryShield Waterproofing. They understand Toronto homes and offer solutions that suit your property and your budget.
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