How to Water-Proof Your Basement
Water in your basement is every homeowner's nightmare. Moisture in a basement can cause significant damage to furniture and appliances that may be housed there. Excessive dampness in a basement can encourage the growth of mold and mildew, substances that can exacerbate allergies and create an unpleasant odor. Water-proofing your basement can be a lot of work but is often possible without the need for outside help. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Repair all leaks and cracks in basement walls and foundation before waterproofing the area. Hairline cracks may be repaired with an injection of an epoxy filler or waterproofing material. Larger cracks and openings require patching with an epoxy or latex waterproof cement. The powdered mix is available at home improvement stores; combine with water according to the directions and smooth on the damaged area with a trowel.
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Remove excess moisture from the air with a dehumidifier. Even if you do not have active leaks in your basement, improper venting from clothes dryers can increase the moisture content, which can contribute to the development of mold.
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Position the exterior gutter downspouts away from the basement and assess the positioning of grade slopes outside. If either of these features are incorrectly formed, such as a grade slope that is not steep enough to guide water away from the house, water may end up in the basement.
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Apply a waterproof coating to the walls of the basement. The simplest method is to use waterproof paint. Alternatively, hose down the walls to dampness and apply a thin layer of waterproof cement mix to the walls. The cement should be pliable and creamy. Allow the first application to harden overnight before layering a second coat.
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