The common belief is that the basement should be a damp and dark space. This is not true. Your basement space in your home should smell fresh and clean. A clean basement will give you more space in your home for other uses. However, if your basement cannot be used as an extra space, you must consider waterproofing to remove the dampness.

The Ultimate Checklist for Basement Waterproofing

You have work to do when your basement is dirty and damp. The following is a checklist of what you must not skip keeping your basement fresh at all times:

1. Inspect your basement

To know why your basement is dirty and damped, you must first conduct an inspection. For this, you should inspect a professional with the right equipment and expertise to help figure out the cause of the problem. The issue with your basement could be a result of leaks and cracks. A professional can figure this out and recommend the following action that must be taken. Immediate restoration steps should follow to prevent further damage to the structure of your home.

2. Repair cracks and leaks

After the inspection, the next step is to repair any leaks and cracks when waterproofing your basement. Water can seep into the floors and walls if there are gaps and cracks. This can cause moisture-related issues, affecting your home's structural integrity.

To repair cracks and gaps:

• Clean the area with a vacuum or wire brush to remove debris.
• Fill the crack or gap with an appropriate sealant, such as hydraulic cement or epoxy.
• For larger cracks or more severe damage, consult a professional to assess and repair the issue.

3. Install an interior drainage system

In waterproofing your basement, installing an interior drainage system is an important step that you must take. In doing this, ensure that you install a drainage channel around the perimeter of the basement. This system will stop water from pooling on the floor of the basement.

When installing an interior drainage system, dig the ground around the perimeter of the basement. Install the drainage channel and connect it to a sump pump. Finish up by covering the trench with gravel and use sealers to close the edges.

4. Install a sump pump

During basement waterproofing, sump pump installation is a step you must take. A sump pump collects any water that enters the basement through the interior drainage system and pumps it out of the basement. This helps to stop pooling and prevent water damage to your basement.

When installing a sump pump, you must first dig a pit at the lowest point in the basement. Connect the sump pump to the internal drainage system after installing it. Then install a check valve to ensure that there will be no flow back of water into the basement. To ensure the proper functioning of the sump pump you install, you must maintain it regularly.

5. Apply waterproof coatings

Applying waterproof coatings to the floors and walls of your basement is another crucial step you must complete. When coatings are applied, water cannot easily penetrate the surface of the basement walls and floors. This will prevent water damage and all other moisture-related problems.

You should start applying waterproof coatings by cleaning the surface of the walls to remove debris. Then, use a roller or brush to apply a waterproof coating. Allow the coating to dry completely before applying a second coat. Ensure that you select the correct type of waterproof coating. The factors that will determine your choice should be the climate, surface type, and moisture severity.

6. Seal basement windows

Basement windows are openings in the walls of the basement. Sealing them and the vents is an important step you should not skip during basement waterproofing. These openings can cause water damage because water can seep into the basement through them.

First, remove any old caulking or sealant from the edges to seal basement windows and vents. Then, apply a new layer of caulking or sealant around the edges, ensuring to fill any gaps or cracks. If the window or vent is damaged or deteriorated, consider replacing it with a more waterproof option.

7. Grade the soil around your home

Grading the soil around your home is an essential step in basement waterproofing. Proper grading helps ensure that water flows away from your home's foundation. This helps to prevent water from entering the basement and causing moisture-related problems.

Remove any debris or vegetation from the area to grade the soil around your home. Then, use a shovel or rake to create a slope away from the foundation. When doing this, ensure the slope is at least six inches over a distance of ten feet. Maintaining this slope over time is vital by regularly checking and adjusting the grading as needed.

Conclusion

Basement waterproofing is necessary to protect your home from water damage. You can effectively do this by inspecting your basement, repairing any cracks or leaks, installing machines like a sump pump and internal water drainage system, and grading the soil around your house. This checklist will help you avoid moisture-related problems in your basement.