How to Help Keep a Basement Dry

Most basements can be kept free of flooding, and you can take many preventive actions yourself.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Work Gloves
• Work Gloves
• Paintbrushes
• Shovels
• Waterproof Paints
• Paintbrushes
• Caulking Guns
• Caulks
• Extension Ladders
• Generators
• Sump Pumps
• Shovels
• Paintbrushes

1. Make sure the ground alongside the foundation is sloped away from the house. Your yard should be graded to direct water to an appropriate drainage area.

2. Keep the gutters clean and free of obstructions so that water is directed away from the house's foundation (see "eHow to Clean Gutters').

3. Caulk any openings around basement windows or doors.

4. Paint the basement walls with waterproof paint.

5. Install a sump pump that has an automatic switch. (Also consider installing a generator for your sump pump in case there is a power failure during a storm.)

6. Consult an established waterproofing or landscape contractor if there is a need for more serious remediation projects, such as installing underground drainage or regrading your yard.

on 11/22/2005 Did you know you can buy a water sensor in case your sump pump or switch fails to let you know if water is on the surface of your floor saving hours of clean-p?

on 11/22/2005 Your tip suggests installing a generator. A cheaper alternative is a battery-powered backup sump pump that automatically activates if the power goes out or the main pump fails.