Whether you use it as a living space or you use it for storage, having a wet basement is a big nuisance. Even just a simple case of condensation can ruin hardwood floors or cause mold that can then penetrate the rest of the house. It is for these reasons that basement waterproofing is something every homeowner should do.
Read on to find out which simple steps you can take to waterproof your basement and stop any damage before it has a chance to appear.
What Can Cause a Wet Basement?
Most often, the water in your basement comes from heavy rainfall or snow. Sometimes, it can be caused by rising water levels or flooding. Once the water accumulates around your foundation, it starts seeping in. Your basement is the first line of defense, so it often suffers the most damage.
How Much Does Waterproofing a Basement Cost?
The cost of basement waterproofing depends on whether you do it by yourself or hire a professional. If you hire a basement waterproofing contractor, the cost can range between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars. It will depend on the size of your basement and the waterproofing options you choose.
Of course, you can also waterproof your basement by yourself. The cost will be lower, but if the job is too big, it might get a bit overwhelming.
Waterproofing Your Basement: The Basics
Here are the steps you can take for exterior and interior basement waterproofing.
Exterior Basement Waterproofing
- Clean Your Rain Gutters
If your rain gutters are blocked, all excess water will pour directly into the foundation of your home. Make sure you remove any debris, leaves, mud, and dirt from the gutters, and you’ll ensure rain never reaches your foundation.
- Extend Your Downspouts
To prevent any water from seeping into your exterior walls and foundation, make sure your downspouts are at least five feet away from your home. You can add metal or plastic extensions to them or install an underground drain pipe.
- Seal Gaps In Your Basement
Gaps around plumbing pipes or cracks in your exterior walls can cause water damage in your basement. Thus, sealing these gaps and cracks should be one of your priorities. For instance, you can use the RadonSeal deep penetrating concrete sealer, as it will fill out any holes, no matter the size. It is a rather durable option, and your basement will be safe from water for years to come.
Interior Basement Waterproofing Systems
- Waterproof Your Basement Walls
Condensation that forms on the interior walls of your basement can become a big problem if you don’t treat it immediately. Luckily, there are concrete coatings you can use to prevent it. For example, the Drylok white extreme waterproofer is a great choice as it is paint-like, but it still penetrates your concrete walls.
If the condensation problem you have is not too serious, a few coatings of waterproof paint will do the trick. You can pick any type or color you want and make your basement look good while ensuring it stays dry at the same time.
- Seal Cracks In Your Basement Floor
Knowing how to stop water from coming up through the basement floor is also important. That usually happens because there are holes or little cracks in your floor. You can close these using a basement waterproofing sealer. Doing so will stop the water seeping through basement floor cracks and ensure the room is dry.
In Conclusion
As you have read, there are many basement systems for waterproofing you can choose when you’re having problems with water accumulating in your basement. Follow our tips and tricks by yourself, or hire a pro to do it for you. Either way, what is important is that your basement stays dry because that will protect your entire home.
