When water starts seeping into your basement, it's tempting to go for the quickest and cheapest fix. That’s where crack injection often enters the picture. It’s marketed as a fast, affordable way to “waterproof” your foundation. But here’s the thing: not all fixes are created equal.
At Jetflo Drain & Waterproofing, we’ve seen a lot of homeowners across Southern Ontario, from Oshawa to Peterborough, pay for crack injections only to call us a few months later when the leak comes back (sometimes worse than before). Let’s break down what crack injection actually is, how it compares to real waterproofing, and how to make the smartest investment for your home.
What Is Crack Injection, Anyway?
Crack injection is exactly what it sounds like. A technician injects a polyurethane or epoxy resin into visible foundation cracks to seal them off from water. It’s a quick process, often done from the inside of your basement, and it can look pretty appealing upfront. No digging. Low cost. Fast results.
But while it may block water temporarily, it doesn’t address the real reason water is getting in to begin with.
💧 Why It’s Not a Long-Term Solution
Here’s the truth. Water doesn’t stop just because a crack is sealed. Hydrostatic pressure (that’s pressure from groundwater building up around your home) will always find the path of least resistance. If it’s not that crack, it’ll be the next one. Or through a seam. Or under the footing.
We’ve also seen crack injections fail because of:
- Shifting soil or foundation movement
- Old or poorly applied product
- Clogged or missing exterior drainage
- Persistent water pressure with nowhere to go
It’s kind of like slapping duct tape on a leaky pipe. It might hold for now, but it won’t last through the next big storm.
🛠️ True Waterproofing: Interior vs. Exterior Systems
Now let’s talk about actual waterproofing.
Exterior Waterproofing
This involves digging around your home’s foundation, applying a waterproof membrane, and installing or replacing weeping tile to move water away from your home. It takes more time and effort, but it stops water before it even reaches your basement.
Interior Waterproofing
This method installs a drainage system and sump pump inside your basement to catch any water that comes in and redirect it safely. It’s a smart choice when exterior work isn’t practical, like if you live in a tightly spaced neighborhood or have landscaping you want to preserve.
Both of these options are designed to manage water long term. That’s the key difference.
💸 So… What’s Actually Worth It?
If your goal is temporary relief, crack injection might buy you a little time. If your goal is real protection, peace of mind, and increasing your home’s value, true waterproofing is where your money will go the furthest.
In Southern Ontario’s climate, especially with the heavy rains we’ve been seeing, investing in a proper waterproofing system now can save you thousands in future repairs, mold removal, and unnecessary stress.
Need help choosing the right waterproofing solution for your home?
Let’s chat. We service Oshawa, Peterborough, Durham Region, and across Southern Ontario. Give us a call or request a quote anytime.