A basement requires the same level of attention and focus as when you planned it to be an additional space for your home. After all, it can serve as an ample room for entertainment, workshop, or storage space. However, ensure that this low-level part of the house is waterproofed to eliminate any risk of seepage.
Basements may suffer from leaks or the presence of water if not correctly waterproofed. Thus, it’s crucial to know the proper ways to waterproof your basement’s interiors. Whether you’re planning to do this the DIY way or hire professional basement waterproofing services, it’s vital to know the essential points of how it is done.
Here are some things you should know about interior basement waterproofing:
- Interior Waterproofing Basement Methods
It’s helpful to be aware of different waterproofing methods so you can choose which one is the most suitable for your basement. No matter how minor your leak or how often your basement floods, you can select any method from the following:
- Interior Foundation Coating
This method involves applying waterproofing coating to the inside of masonry foundation walls, concrete blocks, or poured concrete. White or neutral ready-mix products are most commonly available, but you can tint them as well. The application process is usually fast and easy, depending on the project’s scope.
You can do this yourself as it will only require a few hours to finish. You can also decide how many layers of waterproof coatings to apply. In the case of damp or leaky walls, waterproof coatings are the last resort. Foundation walls that h have undergone waterproofing are effective at controlling damp basements.
- Reinforced Wall Liners
This method is best for severe basement leaks. Water runs through these reinforced wall vinyl liners into a sump pump and a hidden drain. The only drawback of this method is you will need a drain system to accompany it.
In any case, it’s an excellent choice for finished basements. The liner can be covered with drywall, insulation, and framing. This should be the best solution to make your basement look and feel comfy without water seepage.
- Sump Pump
Sump pumps are the last resort for serious leaks. The sump pump may need to be paired with another interior waterproofing method, depending on the problem. However, you may also use this method alone. Your basement’s lowest point will be the dugout. At this point, it would be best to hire a basement contractor as this requires specific technical skills and tools.
They’ll make a hole for the drainage tube in your basement wall, then fill the bottom with gravel. As soon as your basement becomes wet, the sump pump will kick on and begin pumping water out. This ensures that no water can penetrate your basement anytime.
- Cost Of Basement Waterproofing
Basement waterproofing services are widely available in any state but the costs may vary. Your basement’s square footage, the source of the leak, and the severity of damage will determine how much you’ll be charged.
You will probably save on labor costs when you do the task yourselves. However, hiring a professional to waterproof your basement is a more cost-effective, hassle-free, and convenient option. Aside from their expertise and experience, they already have the needed tools and equipment, which you will need to consider if you do the waterproofing by yourself.
If you’re still bent on giving on sprucing up the space, you can decorate your basement with things that interest you once the waterproofing is finished.
- Where Leaks Come From
There is less transparency in a finished basement, so finding the leak source can be more difficult. Water puddles are apparent signs, but cracked walls or mold and mildew can indicate leaks from places the naked eye cannot see. Hence, it’s critical to locate the leaks before conducting interior basement waterproofing.
Your windows could also contribute to leaking, or you could have a plumbing or sewage issue elsewhere in the house. Moisture or condensation is less concerning than a leak because you can eliminate this if you maintain proper airflow and temperature. Therefore, check whether there are leaks present or what you feel are just moisture from the temperature.
You may also refer to home renovation apps to see what your basement would look like once the waterproofing is done.
- Best For Older Homes
Leaky basements pose a problem for older homes as water leaks could weaken the foundation. So, include this part of your house in your renovation plans.
Repair is done from the inside in older homes to lower the risk of damage to the foundation. Thus, hiring the right contractor to perform this task is crucial so you won’t endanger critical parts of your home.
Conclusion
When you see seeping water in the basement, the first thing to do is relocate valuable or essential items. Next is to be familiar with all the vital aspects of interior basement waterproofing, such as those mentioned in this article. Remember that when water starts accumulating in your basement, you should resolve this issue before it gets more severe or irreparable.
