Fairfax, VA Basement Waterproofing Case Study: Solving Water & Mold Issues for Good
DMV Foundation Solutions helped a homeowner in Fairfax, VA resolve a persistent basement moisture issue that was causing mold growth and health concerns.
Through a custom interior waterproofing system—complete with perimeter drainage, window well drains, and protective drainboard—we eliminated the water intrusion and restored the space. The result was a safe, dry basement with long-term protection.
Customer -
John K
Basement Water Intrusion Problem in Fairfax, VA
When John K noticed water pooling beneath his vinyl plank flooring, he knew it wasn’t just a surface issue. Moisture was seeping through the back concrete wall and had already led to mold growth behind the drywall. With older family members visiting soon, he was eager to eliminate both the health risk and potential structural damage.
Common Causes of Basement Moisture and Mold
Water seepage like this is common in Fairfax and throughout Northern Virginia due to poor exterior drainage and pressure buildup from clay-rich soil.
When water infiltrates basement walls and lingers undetected, it can lead to long-term mold growth, damage to flooring, and air quality concerns.
Interior Waterproofing & Window Well Drain Installation
Scope of Work:
DMV Foundation Solutions recommended a comprehensive basement waterproofing system that included:
- Full interior perimeter drainage system
- Window well drain installation
- High-grade drainboard placed above exterior soil grade
- Custom-fitted window well covers
We began by carefully prepping the home’s interior and removing damaged drywall and flooring. The drainage system was installed around the perimeter to collect and redirect any moisture entering through the foundation.
A key part of our approach was installing a drainboard along the wall and extending it above outside grade level. This ensures any moisture that tries to enter the home is captured and funneled into the drainage system.
Finally, we sealed and re-concreted the affected area, then added custom window well covers for added protection from surface water runoff.
How We Measure Basement Waterproofing Success
We consider a project successful when:
- The waterproofing system is sealed and functions as intended
- The drainboard is properly placed above grade for optimal moisture capture
- The homeowner is fully informed and confident in the solution
This project met all of those marks—and then some.
Waterproofing System Maintenance & Warranty
Our waterproofing system is virtually maintenance-free, but we do provide guidance to all homeowners to help protect their investment:
- Avoid puncturing or damaging the drainboard during any future remodeling
- Periodically check the sump pump to ensure it’s operating correctly
We also back our work with a comprehensive warranty that covers installation-related defects, giving homeowners lasting peace of mind.
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FAQs
Q: What caused the basement water issue in this home?
A: The home had poor exterior drainage and hydrostatic pressure pushing moisture through the basement wall. This is common in Fairfax due to heavy rainfall and clay-heavy soils that retain water near the foundation.
Q: Why was interior waterproofing the right solution for this project?
A: Interior systems allow us to capture and redirect water before it reaches living areas, without major excavation. In this case, it was the fastest and most effective way to eliminate water and mold risks without disrupting the home’s exterior.
Q: How does the drainboard help prevent future water intrusion?
A: The drainboard installed above the soil line channels moisture down to the drainage system. By placing it higher than exterior grade, it stops water at the source and prevents it from soaking through the wall again.
Q: Will window well drains really make a difference?
A: Yes. Without proper drainage, water can collect in window wells and leak through cracks or seams. By installing a dedicated drain and cover, we eliminated a major source of infiltration in this home.
Q: What kind of maintenance does this system require?
A: Minimal. The system is designed to work automatically. We recommend checking the sump pump occasionally and avoiding puncturing the wall or floor near the system.
Q: How long does interior waterproofing last?
A: With proper installation—like what we provided at this Fairfax home—these systems can last for decades. Ours also come with a transferable warranty for added peace of mind.
Contact DMV
If your basement is still leaking—even after a previous repair—let’s talk. Our inspections are free, and our solutions are built to last.
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