How to Waterproof a Basement in Massachusetts
Waterproofing is essential to buildings located in coastal states because surrounding bodies of water frequently cause flooding. Coastal storms produce more moisture and long-lasting rainstorms have plagued many Massachusetts residents with wet basements. Waterproofing a basement requires proper planning and diligence to block every water entryway. Non-professionals can perform many waterproofing techniques, but it is important to know when the problem has become too large for do-it-yourself procedures. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Ladder
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- Cement crack repair kit
- Landscaping equipment
- Plastic basement window cover
- Sump pump
Instructions
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Clean or replace the house gutters. Massachusetts has a brilliant foliage season, but leaves fall for an extended period of time and can gather and block rain gutters. When gutters are broken or clogged with leaves, water cannot drain from the foundation. Pooled water can penetrate foundation walls, forming basement leaks. Exercise caution when using a ladder to clean gutters. Products are available that use water pressure to clean gutters safely. You can also find professional gutter cleaners and installation companies listed in the local phone directory.
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Slope the landscape. Springtime in Massachusetts can bring heavy rain and winter brings heavy snow that eventually melts, creating the possibility of basement leaks. Installing a slope with a 1-inch vertical drop every foot provides a water pathway away from the basement. For areas surrounded by concrete, lift the sidewalk or pour additional concrete to raise the sidewalk level. You can do this yourself with materials from a home improvement store or hire a professional landscaper or contractor.
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Fill in basement cracks. Massachusetts has many older homes and basements can crack as the foundation shifts over time. Kits are available online or in home improvement stores that allow homeowners to fill in leaky basement cracks. The kits include caulk, hydraulic cement or a polymer to fill the cracks. The materials cure in three hours. Wear the gloves and safety glasses included to avoid accidents. Professional companies will provide a warranty for their services.
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Cover existing basement windows with plastic window covers. Dig out dirt surrounding basement walls and redistribute. If necessary, install a sump pump to remove water. When selecting a contractor to do the work, request to see a Massachusetts contractor's license or certification and ask for references. Contractor information is also available on the Massachusetts state consumer affairs and business regulation website. When signing a contract, review the document for details on the work being done and the completion date.
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Tips & Warnings
Without proper structural and environmental preparation, applying waterproofing agents to interior basement walls is ineffective, according to professionals.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit cleaning gutters image by palms from Fotolia.com
