How to Waterproof Your Basement
Using Gutters
Whisking water away from the house foundation is key to waterproofing your basement. Improving the drainage system around your house is therefore essential and there is no better way of doing this than installing gutters. The gutters direct water away, thus avoiding pooling of water at the foundation of your house. You need to install gutters and provide horizontal downspout extensions about 1.2 meters, which will direct water away from the excavation ring and into a suitable location. If you already have gutters, consider cleaning them regularly to avoid clogging.
Grading the Outside Ground
Basic science principles teach that water always flows downwards along a slope. Grading the ground to slope away from the house will ensure that water is directed away from the foundation avoiding it seeping into your basement. The slope should be about six feet wide and four inches away from the foundation. After a rainstorm, it is advisable to walk around and look out for uneven grounds. The area should then be graded again for better results. Also, be on the lookout for shrubs or plants growing close to the house because water tends to follow plant roots. This water eventually finds its way to the foundation and into your basement. Avert this by removing all plants that are fewer than 12 inches from your foundation. You can do this by using a shovel and make sure to remove all the plant roots.
Patching up Cracks on the Wall
This method will not prevent water from settling at the foundation, but it will stop it from seeping into your basement. The cracks in the walls let water into the basement and should therefore be sealed immediately when observed. For patching cracks you should first clean the area around the crack. Remove all dirt and dust that may hinder cement from bonding. Then mix the patching material. Use hydraulic cement and latex to form a thin paste called a vinyl concrete patch. Mixing should be done in small quantities at a time since the mixture dries very fast. Wet the crack to prevent the moisture from being drawn out of the patched concrete. Smoothen out and level the patch to your foundation's walls using a trowel.
Interior Waterproofing
Note that the best method for waterproofing is from outside. However, interior waterproofing can be a very effective method for basements with small and intermittent leaks. It's quick and easy as it only requires you to apply the sealant onto the basement walls. You can choose a sealant that best suits your needs among the following three types.
Silicate-based concrete seal is applied on walls that have not been painted or sealed before and is done using a roller or a brush for best results.
Concrete waterproof coating is ideal for concrete and masonry walls that have not been painted. The waterproof coating is spread using a special brush made with Tampico bristles.
Waterproofing paint is suitable on painted walls and can be applied using a brush roller or a sprayer.
Controlling Indoor Condensation, Humidity and Drainage
Installation of foam around your pipes and insulating your basement walls will prevent condensation from occurring. Using a dehumidifier also helps to reduce the humidity in your basement.
Installing a French drain can also help in improving water drainage. It's a continuous system comprised of perforated pipes that are connected underneath the basement. The pipes are surrounded by coarse gravel which helps the water to drain towards a sump pump.
