What has experience shown about sealing moisture out of a foundation?

Sealing moisture out of a foundation has been shown to be less effective than diverting moisture. This distinction is critical in foundation work because simply sealing a foundation may not fully address the root causes of moisture intrusion. Moisture management focused on redirecting water away from the foundation—through proper grading, drainage systems, gutters, and downspouts—can prevent water from inappropriately accumulating around the foundation.

While seals and coatings can provide some level of protection, they are often susceptible to deterioration over time and may not withstand hydrostatic pressure from water build-up. Therefore, by prioritizing moisture diversion, homeowners can reduce the likelihood of water adversely affecting the foundation and overall structural integrity of the home. This proactive approach is generally more effective for long-term moisture control.