How to Waterproof a Basement

When you live in a damp climate, it’s important to waterproof your home to prevent structural damage and mold growth. Waterproofing your basement will keep it dry and safe during heavy rainstorms. Even if you have an existing French drain, sump pump, or other water mitigation system, it may have not been installed properly or has deteriorated over time.

Identifying Sources of Water Damage

Inside your basement, your dryer can produce moisture if it is leaking air from the vent. Sweating pipes can also be a source of moisture. Exterior water sources include broken gutters, flower beds, and unlevel patios that are sloped toward your home’s foundation. Repairing these issues will help prevent water damage and make your waterproofing efforts more effective. You can also use a dehumidifier in your basement to remove excess moisture and prevent mold.

Effective Waterproofing by a Professional

If you’re wondering how to waterproof a basement, you should know that it’s not an easy process. Sometimes, it’s quicker and more cost-effective to leave the job to us. If you need help waterproofing your basement, you can count on AWS to do it right. Here are the four main steps it will take to waterproof your basement.

Clean the Basement

Before you start the waterproofing process, you need to clean the surfaces you will be working on. Old paint should be removed, and all surfaces should be scrubbed thoroughly with soap and water. After you finish cleaning, allow the surfaces to dry completely. You will also need to make sure mold has not grown.

Filling Cracks and Holes

Holes and large cracks in your basement may need to be filled with hydraulic cement. This will prevent water from seeping through and causing damage. For small cracks, you can possibly use masonry filler to create a waterproof seal. It’s always a good idea to have a professional inspect your foundation to make sure you won’t cause more issues.

Caulk Doors and Windows

A simple fix for some with an obvious entry point is that doors and windows need to be caulked to prevent water from seeping in. Look for a silicone-based caulk that is flexible and waterproof.

Apply a Waterproof Finish

Sealed holes and cracks should get a waterproof coating to shore them up. This will add an extra layer of waterproof protection. You can not simply paint over a wet wall as it will trap moisture and foster mold growth.

Contact AWS for Basement Waterproofing Services

Your basement is the foundation of your home, so it’s important to keep it dry and free from damage. Let the waterproofing professionals at AWS take care of your basement. We know how to waterproof a basement properly to make it completely protected from damage. Contact us today for waterproofing services you can rely on.