Moderate. While membrane application can be straightforward, proper foundation preparation, drainage system installation, and adherence to code requirements for frost depth and backfill are critical and often require professional expertise to ensure long-term performance and code compliance.
Standard application for new residential construction or well-prepared existing foundations in DuPage County, assuming typical soil conditions and proper adherence to the established 42-inch frost depth and drainage requirements.
Project Guidelines & Rules
General Requirements & Site Preparation
4 Rules
Permits and Plan Review
Obtain all necessary permits from your local building department prior to commencing any work. Provide detailed plans indicating proposed waterproofing methods, materials, and drainage systems for review. (Refer to IRC Section R105.1)
Site Drainage Assessment
Evaluate existing site drainage to ensure proper grading directs surface water away from the foundation and that roof leaders are adequately managed, maintaining a minimum 6-inch fall in grade within 10 feet of the foundation. (IRC Section R401.3)
Excavation Safety & Utility Locating
Ensure all excavation work adheres to OSHA safety standards. Contact JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) at 811 a minimum of 48 hours prior to digging to prevent damage to underground utilities. (NEC Article 300.5, General Safety Practices)
Frost Protection Depth
Ensure the bottom of the foundation footing, and thus the extent of the waterproofing system, extends to a minimum depth of 42 inches below finished grade to protect against frost heave, as specifically required for DuPage County. (IRC Section R403.1.4.1)
Foundation Waterproofing Membrane - Materials & Application
4 Rules
Foundation Wall Preparation
Foundation walls must be clean, smooth, and free of defects, loose material, sharp protrusions, or form ties before membrane application. All cracks or imperfections must be repaired according to IRC R406.3 requirements.
Waterproofing Membrane Material
Select an approved waterproofing membrane material (e.g., polymer-modified asphalt, self-adhered sheet membrane, liquid-applied elastomer) suitable for the intended hydrostatic conditions. Materials shall comply with ASTM standards and specifications referenced in IRC Section R406.3.
Membrane Application
Apply the waterproofing membrane strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions and the specific requirements of IRC Section R406.3. Ensure continuous coverage from the top of the footing to finished grade, or as per engineered design.
Protection of Membrane
Once applied, protect the membrane from damage during backfilling operations using an approved protection board or other suitable material capable of withstanding soil pressure and abrasion. (IRC Section R406.3)
Foundation Drainage Systems
3 Rules
Perimeter Drainage (Subsoil Drains)
Install a continuous perimeter drain tile (perforated pipe) around the exterior of the foundation footing. Place the pipe in a bed of approved granular aggregate (e.g., washed gravel) and cover with a filter fabric to prevent clogging. (IRC Section R405.1; Illinois Plumbing Code Section 1102.3)
Sump Pit and Pump Installation
If required by site conditions or design, install an approved sump pit and pump system designed to collect and discharge groundwater from the perimeter drainage system. Sump pumps shall be sized appropriately for anticipated water volume and equipped with an alarm. (Illinois Plumbing Code Section 1102.4)
Discharge of Drainage Water
Discharge collected groundwater to an approved location away from the foundation, such as a storm sewer system (if permitted by your local municipality) or to grade, ensuring it does not re-infiltrate the foundation drainage or create public health/safety hazards. Connection to sanitary sewers is strictly prohibited. (IRC Section R405.1; Illinois Plumbing Code Section 1101.9, 1102.4)
Inspections & Final Backfill
2 Rules
Pre-Backfill Inspection
Schedule a mandatory inspection with your local building department after the waterproofing membrane and perimeter drainage system have been installed and protected, but prior to any backfilling operations. (IRC Section R109.1.3)
Backfill Procedures
Backfill with approved granular material, carefully compacting in lifts to avoid damage to the waterproofing membrane and drainage system. Ensure final grading establishes a positive slope away from the foundation as per IRC Section R401.3.
Top Rated Water Damage Pros in Lake County
