How to Waterproof Inside a Basement
Waterproofing the inside of a basement is a common home improvement undertaking. Basements are prone to dampness, and excess water in the basement can cause serious structural damage to a home if left untreated. Controlling surface water is another important facet of preventing basement leaks. Make sure to slope the land so that water slopes away from the house rather than toward it. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Figure out if humidity is one of the causes of water in the basement. Tape a piece of plastic wrap on the wall and walk away fro a few hours. If there are water droplets under the saran wrap when you return, then excessive condensation is a problem. You can fix this problem with fans and dehumidifiers.
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Look for leaks and repair any you discover with a mixture of concrete paint--a type of paint that melds with a basement wall's masonry--and sand. Cover the walls with concrete paint to prevent future leaks.
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Waterproof the floor by coating it with a thick layer of asphalt, then cover it with a 2-inch layer of waterproof mortar. Talk about any problems with professionals at home improvement stores. They can suggest a range of treatments like waterproofing paints and various concrete products that stop leaks.
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Tips & Warnings
Homeowners should bear in mind that waterproofing the inside of a basement is one part of a series of repairs to prevent basement moisture. Though expensive, the most effective preventive measure for basement leakage is waterproofing the exterior. However, exterior waterproofing is costly, as it usually requires hiring professionals to dig out the basement and waterproof the walls.
References
- Photo Credit leaky ceiling 1 image by askthegeek from Fotolia.com
