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Severe Winter Weather » Projects » Exterior walls - seal out water

Exterior walls - seal out water

Even in areas where flood waters are less than 2 feet deep, a house can be severely damaged if water reaches the interior. The damage to walls and floors can be expensive to repair, and the house may be uninhabitable while repairs are underway. One way to protect a house from shallow flooding is to add a waterproof veneer to the exterior walls and seal all openings, including doors, to prevent the entry of water. The veneer can consist of a layer of brick backed by a waterproof membrane.

This project requires a licensed contractor.
  • What to expect:
    • Before the veneer is applied, the siding is removed and replaced with exterior grade plywood sheathing.
    • If necessary, the existing foundation footing is extended to support the veneer material.
    • Changes will be made to the interior walls as well so that they will resist moisture damage.
    • Standard batt insulation is replaced with washable closed-cell foam insulation
    • Any wood blocking added inside the wall cavity will be made of exterior grade lumber.
  • Is this project right for your home?
    • Adding a waterproof veneer is appropriate in areas where the flood depth is less than 2 feet.
    • Greater flood depths can put pressure on the walls and cause damage.
    • If greater flood depths are expected, consult with a licensed civil or structural engineer before using this method.
    • If your house is flooded by groundwater entering through the floor, this method will not be effective.
    • If your house is being remodeled or repaired, consider having the veneer added at that time for save money.