4 Basement Waterproofing Tips To Ensure The Best Results

Every area of our house is vulnerable to water damage. However, the basement is especially susceptible as it is built underground. Builders may take some steps to waterproof the basement during development but houses can settle over time. This may in turn cause cracks to form on the basement walls. Here are some tips and tricks you can follow to achieve the best basement waterproofing results.

Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing is a process that provides a layer of protection for surfaces to prevent moisture from seeping in. It can be applied on the exterior of a home or within its interior or on both sides for more extensive coverage. Basement waterproofing can make the foundation stronger while also helping to reduce energy costs and preventing health hazards like mold.

Basement Waterproofing Tips

The right waterproofing solution for your basement depends on how your moisture problem came about. Some issues can easily be fixed with DIY waterproofing products but more severe cases may require the assistance of a professional. Here are several tips to help you achieve the best basement waterproofing results.

• Determining the Source

First, you need to determine where the moisture is coming from that is causing the water seepage problem. Since concrete is porous, it will be easy to see wet streaks that are a sign of water seepage. Inspect also the areas surrounding windows, plumbing, and mortar joints to check for signs of water seepage to determine the source of the moisture. If you notice your whole wall is wet, perhaps a severe problem lies underneath like a plumbing issue.

• Filling Cracks

Cracks appearing at the bottom of your basement walls is not unusual. This can be due to a weak spot which is known as a cold joint. Cracks appear here as the foundation of the house shifts and settles. Fill up these cracks with proper hydraulic cement. The cement will expand once it enters these cracks to push further into crevices, creating a watertight bond.

• Removing Water Seepage Source

For some houses, you may be able to immediately determine the root of the water seepage problem. There may be planters placed nearby the foundation which cause water to seep in while they are being watered. Reposition these planters to stop the problem. You may also inspect the downspouts and gutters to make sure that water is actually flowing away from the home instead of towards it. It is also recommended for the yard to have a slope of at least 2 percent so it can be graded away from the foundation.

• Adding Draining Solutions

Interior draining solutions may be necessary in certain situations which can help the basement walls to stay dry. For instance, installing a drainage channel below the basement floors which will leave the home with new dry walls that are kept dry and residual water that is channeled to the drain to be pumped away from the home.