Ask every homeowner or buyer, and they’ll tell you that the basement is one of the places they treasure so much in a home. And why attach so much value to the basement? It provides space for recreation, utility space, and shelter from storms. The problem arises when there’s excess water seeping through its lowest level and from excess humidity, causing a significant problem to the property owner. As the house ages, the problems grow, and small cracks emerge from the foundation and the walls. Water can penetrate through the cracks, and that could mean major issues in the future.
What are some of the tips in basement waterproofing?
Find the source of water.
Basements typically have cement or solid-surface floors. Thus it should be easy for you to trace the source of the puddles and streams of water. Some areas you want to check are the pipes and windows and other water lines coming to your house. Cracking along the bottom walls is something else you may want to check and that you should do closely.
Fill in cracks
If cracks are a problem, you need to think of a way of fixing them. And that can be done through the use of hydraulic cement. But this type of cement sets in like three minutes, and therefore you’ve to be as fast as possible.
Fixing window leaks
If there’s no drainage put under the window wells, they can hold water. Putting window drainage structures can be a pretty tricky undertaking post-construction. But there are ways to remedy such issues. One of these is to dig out an area, some two feet lower than the window, and pack the area with gravel. Consider also installing a window well cover to help direct water away from the windows. You can also think of a way to recaulk the windows.
Protect the bare walls
If your basement walls are bare, which means they are cinder or cement block walls, you need to paint them with waterproof paint. This has a sealant mixed in, and when applied correctly, it creates an impervious surface. The waterproof paint is a perfect option for bare walls and can be applied all over other paint. Here, you’ll need to remove all other paint before you put the waterproof variety.
Stop the water damage.
Sometimes, you may only need to rethink your landscaping, and you have it right. That could mean you remove some flowers and those shrubs that you water daily, and the water may be penetrating the foundation of the building or basement. Check also your gutters and other drainages to ensure water doesn’t collect around your building’s foundation.
Seek the help of a professional
You may want to try DIY techniques to fix the issue with your foundation or basement, but you can only do so much. Hiring a basement waterproof professional ensures you have an experienced person sort out the problem once and for all.
Don’t take time to discover some cracks and wetness around the foundation area or the basement. Get some reputable and experienced basement waterproof contractors for Direct Waterproofing to help you fix the problem permanently.