How to Waterproof Basement Walls
Wet basements can be caused by one of two things: groundwater leakage or surface water leakage. If the problem is the former, water will ooze through the floor and wall, causing stains low on the basement wall. If the problem is the latter, it will show up as stains higher up on the wall, at the outside ground-surface level. Surface leakage is commonly caused by overflow from puddles, streams, rain, gutters and melting snow. Both of these problems can be remedied by waterproofing your basement walls. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Prevent Leakage
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Improve improper roof drainage. This is a common cause of surface water problems. If the house is in a natural drainage path, build a ditch to redirect the water or a retaining wall to keep it out.
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Lay a tile drain around the cellar. You can also lead groundwater away from the basement or cellar wall with special drainpipes. Drainpipes sloped one-half inch per foot should lead to a sewer or dry well and keep the water from seeping through the walls. To lay drainage tile, you will have to dig down to the base of the footing of the wall.
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Treat the inside of the basement walls. Fill any cracks or cavities with epoxy. However, do this only during dry spells so the epoxy can correctly adhere.
Waterproof the Outside Wall
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Dig soil away from around the outside walls to create a trench. Once the dirt has been dug out from around the wall, clean the wall with a stiff brush and water so cracks are made more visible.
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Fill any visible cracks with mortar mix and wait for it to dry. For small cracks, a liquid sealer of patching compound should do the trick.
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Once the wall is dry, apply a heavy coat of asphalt roof cement or a plastic sealer. For problem walls, apply two coats.
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Tips & Warnings
Always do your research before using any materials such as liquid sealer or asphalt roof cement to ensure proper usage and prevent injury.
