Basement Waterproofing Process and Estimations
A wet basement. It could be standing water that comes and goes, a patch of wet concrete, or seeping wet walls. Regardless of the type and the amount, we know no one wants it. Not only does the moisture keep you from your finished basement dreams, but it provides the perfect environment for mold and mildew. Concrete that continues to absorb the moisture will also start to corrode, and at some point, crumble away. And let’s be clear here. Your basement is your foundation. You do not want the foundation of your home to be falling apart.
You’ll have to take some action. This action can be in the form of professional help or do-it-yourself projects. If it’s a rather small area and little water, chances are you can handle it yourself. If the area of water is larger, deeper, or is always/frequently there, you’ll probably need the help of a professional.
Starting the process.
Regardless of the decision to handle it on your own or call a basement sealing professional, you’ll want to start in the same place. If there is standing water, you’ll have to get rid of it. Some choose to suck it up with a shop vac. If there isn’t deep water, then towels and mops may be the only option. If you can put a fan on it to help dry things out, do so. Otherwise, you’re going to have to wait for the area to dry. If you’re going to call a professional, do so, let them know you’ve dried the area, and request their suggested next steps. If you’re doing it on your own, the couple of days the concrete will take to dry will give you time to get to a home improvement store for supplies.
Mold Problems?
If there are signs of mold, you’ll need to purchase a mold killer to keep it from spreading and turning into a problem that is no longer safe to handle. You’ll also have to clean the area to get dirt, grime, and any crumbling concrete out of the spot. For this, you’ll need a wire brush, and non-greasy cleaning products to ensure a tight seal later on. You’re also going to need hydraulic cement. You’re going to use this to plug and smooth any holes or cracks that are currently in the walls. Put it down with a recommended hand tool, and follow product directions for dry time.
Seal Doors & Windows
Another place you’re going to have to seal are any doors or windows. These added areas can have corroded seals around their frames, so you’ll want to get a waterproofing caulk to lock out moisture that can build up around them.
What About Masonry Waterproofers?
Once everything is sealed and dry you’ll need a masonry waterproofer. This waterproofing product comes in gallons like paint and applies the same way. You’ll want a roller, brush, and paint trays for the application. This coating can be applied to the inside of your walls to help lock out the water being pressed through the concrete.
Follow product instructions, and apply a second layer if needed. Some of these products are grade rated for applying to the outside of your foundation as well. This type of project would require you to dig out your home’s foundation. If you’re feeling confident enough, apply most of the same steps to the outside of the basement walls and seal there too!
We're Here to help!
Your project is bigger than some crumbling masonry or you just don’t want to have to handle the mess. How much will such a thing cost? Well, there are a few factors to consider. The intensity of the damage and the size of the project is going to create a range for the workers you call. But depending on how difficult the work will be, you could be looking at a bill between a couple hundred and a few thousand. Search for top-rated basement sealers in your area, get a couple out to your home, and get a few quotes. Your quotes should include recommendations and their process for getting the job done. It does not have to be difficult, and it does not have to be scary! A dry basement is a key component of foundation health and should be handled with care.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to call us at (574) 584-3640. Yoder Home Services is located in Goshen, Indiana and mainly services Elkhart County and the surrounding areas. We offer several different home repair services, such as waterproofing, foundation repair, and mold damage remediation. You can also schedule an appointment where we’d be happy to answer any and all questions.
