When it comes to addressing water seepage in cinderblock foundations, professional waterproofing contractors will suggest two main methods as permanent solutions.

• Excavation and waterproofing from the exterior of the foundation wall.

This involves excavating the soil around the basement wall. A waterproof barrier is installed to prevent water from penetrating the cinderblock walls. Weeping tile is also installed to guide water away from the foundation wall.

• Installing drain tile along the inside of the foundation wall

This involves the installation of a French drain on the interior perimeter of the basement. Water that seeps into the cinderblock walls collects in the drain instead of the walls. The water flows by gravity to a well where it is pumped out of the basement. This prevents flooding of the basement. This system also takes care of water collecting beneath the floor of the basement.

Both of the approaches are effective in dealing with leakage through cinderblock foundation walls. Excavation and installation of a drain tile is the most effective method of waterproofing, but it is also the most destructive.