A basement is a great place to store things or to use as a home office or playroom. Waterproofing your basement is an essential step in protecting your home from water damage. However, it is important to weigh the options before deciding which method is right for you. There are many factors to consider when waterproofing a basement, both interior, and exterior.

In this article, we will discuss the dos and don'ts of waterproofing basement walls in order to make sure everything gets sealed up tight without fail.

What is Basement Waterproofing?

If you're like most people, your basement is one of the most important rooms in your home. It's a great place to store your belongings, or to use as a spare bedroom or office. But if your basement is prone to flooding, it can quickly become a disaster zone.

Basement waterproofing is the process of protecting your basement from water damage. These waterproofing methods can be done by installing a proper drainage system along the bottom of the walls, applying waterproofing paint or sealant, and sealing any cracks or holes in the walls. It is an integral part of home maintenance, and there are a few things to keep in mind when waterproofing it.

Why Is It Important?

Waterproofing your basement walls is an essential part of maintaining your home. It is an important step in protecting your home from water damage and flooding. A properly waterproofed basement will keep water out and help to prevent flooding.

If you have a finished basement, it is important to waterproof the walls and basement floor to protect your belongings from water damage.

This is especially important if you live in a region prone to flooding. We, a basement waterproofing company, will help you from having a wet basement during the flood season. We service all of Delaware and Southeastern Pennsylvania. Whether a heavy rainstorm or a winter blizzard, our waterproofing services will keep your basement wall nice and dry--guaranteed!

We offer proprietary waterproofing methods, and our experts will work with you to find the best possible solution to give you.

The Dos and Don'ts

Just like any other part of your home, your basement needs regular care and maintenance to stay in good condition. One important aspect of basement upkeep is waterproofing— ensuring that water doesn't seep in and cause damage.

Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions about basement waterproofing. In this post, we'll debunk some of the most common ones, and teach you the dos and don'ts of proper basement waterproofing. Stay dry!

Do's:

Inspect your basement walls for cracks and other damage To properly waterproof your basement walls, you first need to give a thorough inspection of them for any cracks or other damage. Damaged walls are more likely to leak and require more extensive waterproofing measures.

Seal any cracks or holes in the walls with caulk or sealant Sealing cracks and holes in the basement walls is an important step in waterproofing it. Leaks cracks and surface holes can allow water to seep into it, which can cause damage to the walls and floor. Sealant or caulk is applied to the walls to fill the cracks and prevent water from entering.

Apply waterproofing paint or sealant to the walls Applying waterproofing paint or sealant to the basement walls is an important step in waterproofing it. High-quality waterproof paint or sealant forms a barrier on the wall's surface, preventing water from entering. It is important to apply waterproofing paint or sealant to all surfaces of the walls, including the top, bottom, and sides.

Install a drainage system along the bottom of the wall One of the most critical steps in waterproofing your basement is installing a drainage system along the bottom of the walls. This should be installed along the entire perimeter of the basement and should be connected to a sump pump if possible. This process helps to divert water away from the walls and prevents them from becoming saturated.

Don'ts:

Waterproof the walls if there is evidence of moisture seepage If there is evidence of moisture seepage on the basement walls, do not attempt to waterproof the walls yourself. Seepage or wet streaks can indicate a more severe problem. Do not ignore cracks.

Paint over mold or mildew on the walls Waterproofing paint or sealant may not be effective if there is mold growth on the walls. The paint or sealant may not adhere properly to the wall’s surface, leading to moisture seepage and further damage. If you notice any mildew growth on the walls, do not attempt to waterproof the walls yourself.

Use caulk or sealant that is not designed for waterproofing basement walls When installing caulk or sealant, be sure it's intended for waterproofing. Caulk and sealants not explicitly designed to keep water out may fail because they don't have enough adhesive qualities with your wall’s surface - leading to moisture seepage, further resulting in structural damage.

Should I Waterproof my Basement from the Inside or Outside?

The outside of your home may be vulnerable to water damage, but there are ways you can protect yourself. Waterproofing from the inside or outdoors will keep moisture out, but both methods have pros and cons, so weighing the options before deciding is crucial.

Interior waterproofing is less expensive and less invasive than exterior waterproofing. It is more of a temporary solution but can be done without disrupting the home's layout or functionality.

Waterproofing from the outside is more effective than interior waterproofing. The main advantage of this method? You don't have leaky basement problems anymore - Ever again!!! The main disadvantage of exterior waterproofing is that it can be more expensive and may require construction work, which can disrupt the home's layout and functionality, as it is a more permanent solution.

How Long Does Basement Waterproofing Last?

Basement waterproofing is an essential step in protecting your home from basement wall leaks and giving you dry basement walls. There are several basement waterproofing methods, each with advantages and disadvantages.

No matter what you choose, it is essential to maintain regular maintenance to ensure that the waterproofing remains effective.

How long a basement waterproofing system lasts depends on the type of system and how well it is maintained. Generally, interior waterproofing systems stay about ten years, while exterior waterproofing systems can last up to 20 years.

It is important to remember that these are general estimates, and the life of a waterproofing system may vary depending on the specific conditions.

Suppose you are looking for a waterproofing solution to keep your basement dry for a lifetime. In that case, here at Adam Basement, we provide a lifetime guarantee transferable to a new owner, ensuring that your basement stays protected for years.

Final Thoughts on Basement Waterproofing

Basement waterproofing is an excellent investment for your home. Not only does it protect you from a damp basement, but it also increases the property’s value and can be relatively inexpensive to install!

Finally, if you are looking for a professional to waterproof your basement, look no further than us--Adam Basement! Our experienced team has over 15 years of combined experience in providing our clients with waterproof basements and structural repair, so you can rest assured that your basement is in good hands.

We offer a long-term solution and various services to suit your needs, including interior and exterior walls, waterproofing, sump pumps, and more. So don't wait until it's too late - call us today and let us help you keep your home safe and dry!