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The Dos and Don’ts of Waterproofing Basement Walls

In Lifestyle
November 19, 2021
The Dos And Don'ts Of Waterproofing Basement Walls

The basement is usually at the lowest point of your home, making it susceptible to water problems. A wet basement can cause cracks on walls, peeling paint, and may weaken the foundation. Here are the dos and don’ts of waterproofing your basement walls.

Do Find the Source of the Flooding

Before you begin any inspection or repairs, it is advisable to find the source of the water. If there are leakages, you may spot streaks along the walls of the basement. They are usually on weak points such as along the window or around pipe joints.

Establish if the water is seeping through the wall. Sometimes, it is a drain blockage that you can fix. By determining the source of the leak, it is easier to implement lasting solutions.

Do Clear Standing Water from the Basement

Before you start inspecting the basement, ensure there is no standing water. Pools of water can be dangerous, as they pose the risk of electrocution.

Check your gutters and downspouts for clogging to avoid flooding. Water accumulation can weaken your home’s foundation. You can use a water pump to discharge water away from the basement.

Do Inspect for Cracks

When your foundation starts shifting, you may notice cracks along the bottom of the wall. The cracking will allow water to get into the basement, weakening the building’s structure.

If there are cracks in the wall, you may fix it with hydraulic cement. The cement expands rapidly to fill up the holes where water can get into the basement.

Waterproofing your basement walls is usually the best solution to stop the water. A waterproof membrane can adjust to cover cracks as they appear.

Don’t Use a Sealant on Waterproof Paint

If you opt to use a sealant, you must ensure that the surface is clear of debris and paint. The seal will not adhere to the walls if there is paint or efflorescence. You can hire a sandblasting contractor to clean the surface before applying a sealant.

Waterproofing basement walls with paint is only a temporary solution that will last for a few months. Water will accumulate behind the wall and exert pressure on it, forcing the paint to peel.

Also, avoid using tar or plastic to close off areas with leakages. Over time, both materials become brittle and crack. As a result, moisture finds its way back into the basement.

Don’t Forget to Install a Drainage Channel

You may also want to consider installing a drainage channel around the foundation. It is made during construction, but some older homes may not have one installed. There are also several ways to implement the drainage system.

If you want a budget-friendly solution, consider the ‘58 Foundations waterproof panel. Waterproofing basement walls with a membrane along the wall’s perimeter will keep your basement dry. It stops leakages before they get into the flooring or other parts of the building.

Waterproofing your home is a wise investment to protect against flooding and property damage. Talk to ‘58 Foundations for lasting solutions for your basement.