Foundation Crack Repair: Which Cracks Need Waterproofing vs Structural Repair?
A crack in your foundation can be either a small waterproofing issue… or the first warning sign of structural movement.
December 25, 2025
Exterior basement waterproofing permanently stops water before it meets your foundation walls. Technicians excavate around your home, down to footing level, and install a multi-layer system:
Niagara Falls’s unique environment compounds hydrostatic challenges:
● High Water Table & Welland Canal Influence: Groundwater often reaches within inches of the footing, making basement waterproofing in Niagara Falls essential.Be on the lookout for:
Spotting these early can save you thousands in repairs. Schedule a free inspection St. Catharines today.
Mastery of Niagara Falls’s foundation and drainage challenges.
Google-Guaranteed professionals meeting all Ontario building codes
We’ve successfully completed over 3,500 drainage and waterproofing projects across the region—earning the trust of homeowners and businesses alike.
Detailed, no-surprise written quotes.
20-year membrane; 5-year on workmanship.
Rapid repair service for flood or structural crises.
A 1920s home in Clifton Hill leaked during every downpour. McDowell’s exterior solution:
Outcome: No water intrusion after three severe storms—and walls remain straight, without bowing.
Hydrostatic pressure occurs when groundwater accumulates and presses against foundation walls. Exterior waterproofing relieves this force by:
By addressing both below-grade and surface water, exterior systems neutralize hydrostatic pressure—preventing cracks, leaks, and structural damage.
Check membrane integrity and downspout connections.
Remove leaves and sediment to prevent overflow.
Re-grade any low spots around the foundation.
Use a garden hose at cleanouts to clear sediment every 2–3 years.
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A crack in your foundation can be either a small waterproofing issue… or the first warning sign of structural movement.
A basement should feel like a calm part of the house — a place you don’t have to think about
Plumbing problems usually don’t start with a big splash. They begin in small ways — a tap that won’t stop
Sometimes your bathtub just decides it won’t drain. No warning, no reason… it just sits there with water like it
Properly functioning drains are barely noticed when they are functioning correctly. But when something goes wrong it can be disorganizing
A clogged kitchen sink is one of those annoying little moments that ruin your mood for no reason. You’re trying
Most projects finish in 5–8 days, depending on home size and soil conditions.
Many Niagara Falls municipalities require permits; McDowell handles applications for you.
Yes—every plant and hardscape is protected and fully restored to match pre-work conditions.
Absolutely—dual systems provide maximum defense against groundwater and leaks.
Annual visual checks and periodic drain tile flushing every 2–3 years keep the system optimal.