Waterproofing Solution for a Historic Basement in Chester, PA

Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 by Makayla Pratta

Challenge

In Chester, Pennsylvania, the owner of a local barber shop was experiencing ongoing moisture issues within the building’s historic basement. The space featured old stone foundation walls that had become increasingly damp over time, creating an uncomfortable and unhealthy environment beneath the business. The basement’s age and construction style made it especially vulnerable to water intrusion and excess humidity. Moisture buildup along the walls was contributing to damp conditions throughout the space, raising concerns about long-term damage, musty odors, and poor air quality. Because the basement sat directly beneath an active commercial space, the owner wanted a reliable waterproofing solution that would not only manage water intrusion but also improve the overall condition of the environment below the shop.

Solution

To fully address the moisture issues, our team designed and installed a complete waterproofing and humidity control system tailored to the historic basement. The project began with the installation of the WaterGuard interior drainage system around the entire perimeter of the basement. Installed just beneath the floor surface, WaterGuard captures incoming water at the wall-floor joint and channels it directly to the sump pump system before it can spread across the basement floor. To provide dependable water removal, we installed the TripleSafe sump pump system. With multiple layers of pumping protection, including backup capability, the system is designed to keep the basement protected even during periods of heavy water intrusion or power outages. Next, the stone walls were lined with CleanSpace vapor barrier. This durable liner helps isolate the basement from moisture entering through the walls while creating a cleaner and brighter appearance throughout the space. To complete the system, we installed a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier to regulate humidity levels and improve overall air quality. By controlling excess moisture in the air, the SaniDry system helps reduce musty odors and creates a healthier environment beneath the barber shop. With all components working together, the historic basement was transformed into a cleaner, drier, and more controlled space that now has long-term protection against water and humidity issues.