Things You'll Need:
- A stubbornly damp basement
- Handyman skills
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Step 1
Install gutters and downspouts. If you have gutters, make sure they are flowing freely and clean from debris. Downspouts can be installed that shoot water six to twelve feet from the perimeter of the home. Make sure the drainage flows away from the home.
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Step 2
Install an automatic sump pump. Locate the dampest area in the basement for this installation. If you have a sump pump, you may consider lowering the pit. Ensure the pump is in good working order and the drainage from the pump flows clearly away from the home. This will clear standing basement water.
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Step 3
Use a dehumidifier. Every damp basement will benefit from this upgrade. Let the drainage flow into the sump pump pit, so continuous emptying of a dehumidifier is not required. An alternative to the dehumidifier is ventilation. Simply opening the basement windows can help dry out the basement as well. This however, is a temporary solution.
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Step 4
Seal the basement walls. There are many reputable concrete sealing products you can use to stop moisture from coming through the walls of your basement. There are products for the floor of the basement as well.
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Step 5
Ensure your landscaping outside flows away from your home. If you have a steep grade leading up to your home, you may need to install a perimeter drain.
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Step 6
Install a perimeter drain. I have included a link below explaining how this is done.
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Step 7
If after all of this, you still have a wet, damp, or flooding basement, seek a professional. You can rest easy knowing you have tried everything!
