Keep Your Lower Level Bone-Dry
If water is getting into your basement, the problem isn't the concrete—it's hydrostatic pressure. Water in the soil pushes against your foundation walls and up through the floor. We install systems that capture and remove that water before it becomes a problem.
Interior French drain installation along basement perimeter
Why Boise Basements Get Wet
The Treasure Valley has several factors that conspire against dry basements:
- High Water Table: During irrigation season (April-October), groundwater rises dramatically. The water has to go somewhere—and it pushes up through your slab.
- Clay Soil: Clay doesn't drain. Water accumulates against your foundation walls, creating intense lateral pressure.
- Cove Joint Seepage: The "cove joint" where your floor meets the wall is the weakest point. Water enters here first.
- Floor Cracks: As concrete ages, cracks develop. Rising groundwater finds every crack.
Interior vs. Exterior Drainage
There are two fundamental approaches to basement waterproofing:
Exterior Waterproofing
Involves excavating around the entire foundation, applying waterproof membranes, and installing exterior drain tile.
- Pros: Keeps water out entirely, protects the wall itself.
- Cons: Extremely expensive ($15,000-$40,000+), disruptive (destroys landscaping), not always possible (decks, driveways, additions block access).
Interior Drainage (Our Specialty)
Manages water that enters by capturing it at the floor-wall joint and routing it to a sump pump.
- Pros: 50-70% less expensive than exterior, no yard disruption, works in any weather, effective for hydrostatic pressure.
- Cons: Doesn't stop water from touching the exterior wall (rarely a structural issue).
Our recommendation: For most Boise homes with hydrostatic pressure issues, interior drainage is the best value. We reserve exterior work for specific situations like crumbling walls or structural concerns.
Professional sump pump installation with sealed basin
Our Interior Drainage System
We install a complete water management system:
- 1. Perimeter Trenching: We cut a narrow channel around the basement perimeter, just inside the walls.
- 2. Drain Tile Installation: Perforated pipe is laid in the trench, surrounded by washed gravel. Water enters the pipe from all directions.
- 3. Wall Vapor Barrier (Optional): A dimpled membrane can be installed on walls to direct any wall seepage into the drain system.
- 4. Sump Basin & Pump: All drain lines converge at a sump basin. A cast-iron pump with battery backup ejects water outside.
- 5. Concrete Restoration: The trench is filled with fresh concrete, flush with the existing floor.
What to Expect: Cost & Timeline
- Partial System (1-2 walls): $3,000-$6,000
- Full Perimeter System: $8,000-$15,000
- Sump Pump Only: $1,500-$2,500
Timeline: Most basements are completed in 1-2 days. The concrete needs 24-48 hours to cure before heavy use.
Free Basement Evaluation
We'll identify where water is entering, explain your options, and provide a no-obligation quote.
Common Failure Signs in Boise
Water Intrusion
Moisture seeping through walls, floors, or foundation during rain or irrigation season.
Structural Warning Signs
Cracks in walls, sticking doors, or uneven floors indicating foundation movement.
Ongoing Maintenance Issues
Recurring problems that never seem to go away despite multiple repair attempts.
Serving All of Boise & The Valley
Our structural specialists are in Boise daily.
Boise Basement Drainage FAQ
Does basement drainage stop mold?
Will this hurt my home's value?
Can I finish my basement after this?
What warranty do you offer?
What Boise Homeowners Say
"I needed a foundation drain installed to prevent water leakage into my crawlspace. Joel, Jason, and the crew did an excellent job. Professional work from start to finish!"
"I was extremely pleased with the work done by Idaho Drainage Solutions. We just moved into a home in an area with soil that holds water. They solved it completely."
"This summer I discovered water entering my crawl space through some pretty severe leaks in my cold joints. Idaho Drainage installed a complete system and now it's bone dry."
Why Choose Idaho Drainage Solutions?
Licensed & Insured
Fully licensed in Idaho (RCE-57554) with comprehensive liability coverage for your protection.
Prompt Scheduling
We respect your time. Appointments scheduled within 24-48 hours for most estimates and inspections.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We stand behind our work with industry-leading warranties and a commitment to getting it right.
Local Expertise
We know Treasure Valley soil, water tables, and building codes better than anyone.
No-Surprise Pricing
Clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees. The price we quote is the price you pay.
Free Consultations
Every project starts with a free on-site evaluation. No pressure, just honest advice.
0% Interest Financing Available
Flexible payment options for your drainage projects.
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PROTECT YOUR HOME
Don't let a small issue turn into a structural failure. Schedule your free evaluation now.