Did DIY waterproofing on a basement wall about 5 years back. Held up okay-ish, but honestly, I still get nervous every heavy rainstorm... If I had to redo it, I'd probably bite the bullet and call the pros too. Peace of mind counts for something.
Totally agree with you there—basement waterproofing isn't something I'd gamble on. I've seen plenty of DIY jobs that look fine at first but eventually let moisture seep through and cause hidden mold or structural issues. Honestly, foundation work is one of those places where spending extra upfront saves headaches (and wallet aches) down the line. If you're reconsidering, think about drainage too...sometimes the problem starts outside your walls, not inside.
Good points all around, though I'd caution against assuming pricier always equals better. I've seen some expensive waterproofing jobs fail spectacularly because the underlying drainage wasn't addressed properly. Definitely agree it's worth investing in, but research your contractors carefully...trust me on this one.
Learned that lesson the hard way myself. Had a contractor push expensive waterproofing without sorting out drainage first—ended up tearing half of it out a year later. Solid drainage beats fancy coatings every time...
Gotta disagree slightly here—drainage is crucial, sure, but dismissing waterproof coatings entirely isn't the answer. I've seen plenty of sites where even excellent drainage couldn't fully prevent moisture intrusion, especially in areas with heavy rainfall or high water tables. A good waterproof barrier can save you headaches down the line, provided it's done right and paired with proper drainage. It's not an either-or situation... more like a balancing act between the two.
