Is Basement Waterproofing Worth the Investment?

Applying paint to your basement ceiling helps prevent moisture.

Basements are typically high in humidity and often suffer damage when water leaks occur. While many home improvement contractors offer basement waterproofing, it can be quite costly. However, there are many steps homeowners can take to waterproof their basements on their own, which saves money, prevents water damage and reduces expensive repairs.

Identification

Waterproofing is an important aspect of home moisture control. Rainwater can run into your basement, coming inside in cracks in the foundation. Windows can leak around the sills, causing water stains to develop on basement walls. If your basement has a dirt floor, moisture may move from the soil up through the foundation of your home, raising indoor humidity levels that make your entire home feel damp and uncomfortable. Your basement must be resistant to moisture, or your home will eventually suffer damage from excess moisture and possible mold growth.

Improve Drainage

One of the most important aspects of avoiding moisture damage is preventing water from coming inside in the first place. Poor drainage is the most common cause of water damage in basements. The lot your home is built on should slope away from your home, keeping water flowing away from the foundation. If the lot is improperly graded, rainwater and surface water may run inside the basement and cause damage. Waterproof your basement by pointing downspouts away from your home, dumping water 3 to 4 feet from your home's foundation. All gutters on your home should be kept clean because debris causes clogs and water backup. Rainwater may enter your home at the corners, running down the walls and flooding your home.

Vapor Diffusion Retarders

Adding a vapor diffusion retarder to your basement ceiling is another important waterproofing technique. Vapor diffusion retarders are also known as vapor barriers, which work by slowing down the rate moisture seeps through your basement ceiling. While there are many types of vapor diffusion retarders, the United States Department of Energy states that simply applying paint to your ceiling will make your basement more resistant to moisture. Choose a glossy, acrylic paint for best results, and apply many coats for moisture protection. The more layers of paint you apply to your basement ceiling, the more waterproof the basement will be.

Prevention

Waterproofing your basement takes some time and effort, but it is worth the investment in the long run. Improve the drainage system in your home by having the lot regraded to improve drainage. Regularly clean debris from your gutters so rainwater does not run inside your home. Place extensions on your downspouts to keep water away from your home. Apply vapor diffusion retarders on your basement ceilings to prevent moisture damage. If your basement has a dirt floor, place plastic over it and seal at the edges to slow down the evaporation of moisture through the soil.

References

• CNN: Safeguard Your Home from Floorind
• Energy Savers: Vapor Barriers or Vapor Diffusion Retarders