How to Waterproof a Basement in Michigan
By their very nature, basements are damp and musky. With poor construction, inadequate ventilation and few windows, many basements are mold-breeding, unpleasant spaces. Michigan is no exception. Do-it-yourself homeowners with moisture problems in their basements can, for little cost, take steps to reduce the moisture content and rid the basement of odors and dampness. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Examine the exterior of your home's foundation. Waterproofing your basement begins outside the home. Fill in low water collection points around the foundation. Slope the soil surface to make water run away from the home. Drain spouts and gutter outlets should extend at least six feet beyond the foundation and direct runoff away from the home.
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Check drains and gutters for leaves and debris that prevent water from draining correctly. Michigan has an abundance of leaves that quickly overwhelm and plug up many rain gutters. Clean gutters, and set up a regular maintenance program of leaf removal and cleaning in the fall and the spring. Keeping gutters clean will prevent water damage and costly repairs in the future.
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Cracks in basement concrete allow water to enter the domicile. Inspect the interior foundation for cracks that allow moisture to enter the home. Cracks may be the result of inferior construction methods, settling of the structure or water pressure that has built up, forcing water through the foundation walls. Efflorescence, the sign of beginning water seepage, signifies that action is required.
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Contact a professional contractor that specializes in basement waterproofing, drainage systems, mold testing and mold remediation for an evaluation of the problem and an estimate for repair costs. Many moisture problems can be resolved by the experienced do-it-yourself homeowner. However, serious problems may require professional knowledge and experience.
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Purchase premixed epoxy and concrete waterproof repair caulking to mend small cracks. If you are tackling a large scale job, you can save money by mixing your own waterproof caulking compound. Caulking materials and ready-mix products are available for purchase from concrete contractors and home building supply stores. Apply as indicated in the packaging directions.
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Apply waterproofing products to the exterior and interior foundation. Follow package directions. Apply with a sprayer, brush or roller. Because the material is water-soluble, cleanup is easy. Many contractors suggest applying hot tar to the exterior of the basement walls during construction. Tar provides a dense, waterproof seal.
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If water pressure has built up against the foundation and is leaking through the walls, install a weep pipe. The pipe will empty into a bucket or basement floor drain. Chip out a groove or hole in the concrete to insert the pipe through the foundation and provide a space for new mortar. Install the weep pipe where water pressure is the greatest or at a point where the side wall and floor joint meet. Position the weep pipe in place. Apply waterproof mortar around the pipe to seal. Work carefully, making sure that there are no air pockets between the mortar, pipe and the basement concrete. Allow to dry.
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Install a dehumidifier if mold is evident or a musky odor persists.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Concrete street cracks image by Dreadman from Fotolia.com asphalt image by AGphotographer from Fotolia.com
