Basement Waterproofing & Finishing in Keene, New Hampshire, by Matt Clark's Northern Basement Systems.

Challenge

A homeowner in Vermont contacted Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems after years of dealing with a damp, musty basement that they hoped to one day finish into a livable space. Water frequently entered after heavy rain, leaving behind stains, odors, and humidity that made the basement uninviting. The homeowner’s goal was not only to stop the water once and for all, but also to transform the basement into a clean, comfortable, and fully finished living area. They wanted a complete system — one that addressed water intrusion and humidity while also providing durable, waterproof flooring that could withstand Vermont’s year-round moisture.

Solution

A certified waterproofing and finishing specialist from Northern Basement Systems performed a complete evaluation of the home’s foundation and basement environment. The inspection revealed active seepage at the floor and wall joints, minor foundation cracks, and high humidity. The space had no reliable drainage system, and the existing sump pump was underperforming.

Because the homeowner planned to finish the space, the team designed a comprehensive waterproofing and finishing plan to keep the basement permanently dry while providing durable, moisture-resistant materials suitable for everyday use. The Northern Basement Systems crew installed a full Basement Systems® waterproofing and finishing package, combining industry-leading products for protection, performance, and comfort:

• WaterGuard® Interior Drainage System: Installed along the entire perimeter of the basement floor, WaterGuard collects groundwater and wall seepage, channeling it safely to the sump pump without clogging or disrupting the floor.

• TripleSafe® Sump Pump System: The heart of the waterproofing system, TripleSafe provides three levels of pumping protection — including a battery backup for power outages — ensuring the basement stays dry under all conditions.

• CleanSpace® Wall System: A bright, durable vapor barrier was applied to the foundation walls. It prevents moisture from evaporating into the space and directs any wall seepage down into the WaterGuard system.

• SaniDry™ Sedona Dehumidifier: Installed to control humidity, the SaniDry Sedona keeps the basement’s air clean, dry, and comfortable while preventing musty odors and mold growth.

• IceGuard® Discharge Line Protection: Exterior IceGuard fittings prevent the discharge line from freezing, ensuring the sump system operates year-round.

• LawnScape® Outlet: The discharge line terminates at a discreet LawnScape outlet, safely directing water away from the foundation without affecting the yard’s appearance.

• ThermalDry® Elite Plank Flooring System: Once the basement was fully waterproofed, the team installed Basement Systems’ exclusive Elite Plank flooring — a durable, waterproof, and attractive wood-look plank designed specifically for finished basements. Unlike traditional flooring, it will never warp, buckle, or support mold growth, even in high humidity.

The transformation was stunning. The basement went from a damp, musty, and unusable space to a bright, dry, and fully finished lower level that the homeowner can now enjoy year-round. The WaterGuard and TripleSafe systems ensure the basement remains dry even during the heaviest rains, while the CleanSpace wall liner and SaniDry Sedona maintain ideal humidity levels. The Elite Plank flooring brought warmth and comfort to the space, completing the vision of a functional and beautiful living area. The homeowner was thrilled — not only was the basement completely protected from water intrusion, but it also became one of the most comfortable rooms in the house. This Vermont project demonstrates how Matt Clark’s Northern Basement Systems can completely transform a basement from wet and unfinished to dry, healthy, and beautifully livable. By combining WaterGuard®, TripleSafe®, CleanSpace®, SaniDry™, IceGuard®, LawnScape®, and Elite Plank Flooring, the homeowner now enjoys a basement that’s permanently waterproofed, energy-efficient, and ready to be enjoyed for years to come.