Hi, I’m Alex, one of the partners at Vancouver Underground Drainage Experts. With over 10 years in the drainage and foundation repair business, I can confidently say that when it comes to fixing cracked foundations and solving water ingress issues, nobody does it better than our team. We live and breathe this work, and we care about getting it done right the first time.
Recently, I was called out to a home in Vancouver where the homeowner noticed water seeping into their basement during heavy rain. After calling our office and booking an appointment, we set out to investigate and resolve the issue.
Step 1: Planning and Review
Before touching a shovel, we did our homework. We pulled historical city records, scanned drainage maps, and reviewed local utility portals to understand how the property was laid out underground. It’s essential to know what lies beneath before excavation begins. Many older homes in Vancouver have hidden surprises under the soil, and skipping this step can lead to costly mistakes.
Step 2: Excavation
With one master drain tech and a drainage helper on-site, we began carefully excavating the designated area. Our goal was to expose the foundation wall and existing drainage infrastructure. This isn’t just digging a hole; it’s strategic work requiring skill and precision, especially when working close to a house foundation. Every inch counts.
We uncovered a significant vertical crack running down the concrete foundation wall. This crack was allowing water to penetrate the home—a serious issue that can lead to mold, structural damage, and reduced property value.
Step 3: Foundation Crack Repair
We started by opening up the crack with a diamond grinder to create a proper channel for repair. Once prepped, we used Xypex, a high-grade crystallizing cement designed to seal concrete from the inside out. It’s engineered to react with water and minerals inside the concrete to form a permanent seal.
After the Xypex cured, we applied a Blueskin waterproof membrane – a peel-and-stick barrier that provides robust, flexible protection from future water intrusion. This two-step process (Xypex followed by membrane) makes the wall 100% watertight and “bulletproof” against leaks.
Step 4: Drainage Pipe Installation
After the Xypex cured, we applied a Blueskin waterproof membrane – a peel-and-stick barrier that provides robust, flexible protection from future water intrusion. This two-step process (Xypex followed by membrane) makes the wall 100% watertight and “bulletproof” against leaks.
Step 4: Drainage Pipe Installation
To improve future access and prevent water from pooling, we installed new PVC piping with bi-directional cleanouts. This means if any future issues arise, you don’t have to dig again — the access points are right at ground level and capped for easy maintenance.
These connections were made with heavy-duty Fernco fittings to ensure a tight, flexible seal between new and existing piping systems.
Step 5: Backfill and Site Restoration
Once the drainage and foundation work was complete, we backfilled the hole with new gravel to ensure proper drainage and stability. A landscape fabric layer was added to separate the gravel from the fresh topsoil we brought in later.
We always clean up after ourselves. That includes:
Hauling away the large pile of dirt (yes, that means renting a container and heading to the dump).
Bringing in new gravel and topsoil to restore the landscape.
Raking the grass, removing all garbage, and placing stones back where we found them.
Tools & Materials Used
We only use top-tier materials, including:
Xypex crystallizing waterproof cement
Blueskin WB membrane and primer
Fernco flexible couplings
High-quality PVC piping
4500 PSI hydro flush machine
Fiber optic camera for inspection
Ridgid SR-20 locator for tracing pipes
Why We Dig to the Foundation
People often ask why we dig all the way down to the foundation wall. The truth is, surface repairs just don’t cut it. Water always finds a path. Unless you address the source—often cracks or compromised membranes at the base of the wall—you’re only delaying the inevitable. Plus, without full access, we can’t properly install drainage or verify the condition of your waterproofing system.
Final Thoughts from Alex
This project was a classic case of what can go wrong when foundation issues are left unchecked. Thanks to a solid plan, the right tools, and a skilled crew, we were able to deliver a long-term solution.
If you’re in Vancouver and dealing with soggy yards, water intrusion, or suspect drainage problems, give us a call. We’re here to help and proud to offer the most thorough service in the city.
Stay dry, Alex
Partner, Vancouver Underground Drainage Experts
