Basement Waterproofing Products

With a combination of basement waterproofing products, you can create a moisture free basement living space. Read on...
There are many basement waterproofing products available today. Also, homeowners have various choices from different brands and types of products. One can easily find the best waterproofing products at an affordable price. A combination of waterproofing products with a drainage system is recommended for good basement waterproofing. However, if you have thin cracks, then you can use a sealer to fill up the cracks. You can go through various waterproofing products reviews, to see which product suits best for your needs.

Drainage Systems

Sump Pump: Sump pumps are very effective drainage system, and work even in extreme situations. For example, even if there is a low water table which is pushing water from below the ground, the water will get accumulated in the pit of the sump and then will be drained away using the pump. This water is drained away from the foundation with the help of underground pipes, and then directed to a dry well or to a municipal storm drain.

French Drain: This are very popular and effective drainage system. If you are a DIY enthusiast, then you can do French drain installation without professional help. All you need to do is dig a trench at the base of the sloped region, which is causing water logging, then allow the water to be captured by the French drain and let it be redistributed.

Gutter and Downspouts: If you don't have an effective basement waterproofing system, then you can consider installing new downspouts and gutter. Make sure they are at least 5 feet away from the house, and the water is directed at a safe distance.

Products for Interior Basement Waterproofing

Waterproof Sealant: For interior basement waterproofing, one of the common ways is to use brushed or rolled interior waterproof sealant. This helps to create a waterproof surface protecting the interior of the basement and the walls. You can paint both the floor and the walls with this product, this way you will have a protective shell which will be protecting the basement, by keeping the water out. This is a good solution, but if there are major water leaks then you need to install a good waterproofing system, or it can lead to mold or mildew growth.

Crack Filling Products: If there are any visible cracks in the walls or floor which are causing leaks, then crack filling products which are based on silicon compounds can be directly injected into the cracks to seal them up. You can do this and then coat the entire wall surface with a sealant and basement waterproofing paint.

Vent Appliances: Most people tend to have a laundry room in their basement. If this is the case, then ensure that the washer and the dryer are connected to machine vents air outdoors. Take care to check for any leaks from the washer, and avoid drying your clothes inside the basement.

Dehumidifiers: This is a great product, as it greatly helps to absorb excess moisture from the living space. You can buy a dehumidifier according to the size of your basement.

Products for Exterior Basement Waterproofing

Silicon Caulk: For basement waterproofing cost effective solution, silicon caulk works great. To waterproof your windows and door from the outside, locate the edges and remove old or worn out sealant with a putty knife, without damaging the siding. Then apply bead of silicon caulking to the joints, and smooth out the bead and let it dry for 24 hours. You can paint it to match the color of your house.

Metal Window Wells: To maintain the exterior basement area dry, consider installing metal window wells for your basement windows. They help to collect water and retain the water, if they are not properly constructed, so cover them with gravel to prevent any seepage or water retention.

Dimple Mat: This product for exterior basement waterproofing, is usually used for new construction, but can be retrofitted onto an existing home, if you are ready to make a major excavation all the way around the house. This product is a textured rigid plastic sheet which is applied to the exterior of the basement wall, and secured with screws.

So, survey the exterior and interior of your basement. Check what all needs to be repaired or installed with effective basement waterproofing solutions, and buy the products accordingly.
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Published: 10/6/2010
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