How to Waterproof an Old Basement

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waterproofing old basement

Basements are susceptible to leaks and flooding, and old ones even more so. From cracks and musty odors to excess humidity and mold growth, there are a myriad of issues your old basement can experience over time. These issues can compromise your building’s structure as well as your living environment. To protect your home from damage, you need to be aware of the signs of water intrusion and appropriate ways to waterproof your basement.

Signs Your Basement Needs Waterproofing

Below are some common signs that your old basement needs waterproofing.

Persistent Dampness or Wet Spots

Persistent dampness in your basement or wet spots around the walls and floor are signs that your basement is compromised. You may not see visible flooding or standing water, but the water stains are enough to indicate that your basement requires waterproofing.

Musty Odors and Mold Growth

A musty, unappealing smell coming from your basement and spreading throughout the house is an indication of excess humidity, moisture, and potential mold growth. These are prominent signs that you need to waterproof your basement.

Visible Cracks in the Walls or Floor

Cracks in your basement walls and floor occur when your foundation shifts due to hydrostatic pressure. When these cracks appear, they need to be repaired immediately to prevent further deterioration and water intrusion.

Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a white, powdery, chalky substance that appears on the basement walls and floor after water has passed through the structure. This substance indicates the presence of water in your basement and calls for immediate attention.

High Humidity Levels

High humidity is a common cause of mold and mildew growth. It also spreads a damp odor around the house and creates an uncomfortable indoor environment. High humidity levels can be controlled with the help of professional basement waterproofing.

Peeling Paint or Bubbling Plaster

Inadequate drainage causes high humidity levels and extreme condensation, which leads to peeling paint. It also triggers moisture buildup on walls, leading to bubbling plaster. In many cases, the doors and windows can start warping or sticking due to moisture.

Steps For Waterproofing an Old Basement

Waterproofing an old basement can be tricky. Depending on how old the basement is, you might need to perform repairs before you can start the waterproofing process. That’s why the right first step is to get a professional inspection.

Get a Professional Inspection

A professional inspection is conducted by basement waterproofing specialists who can determine the extent of any damage in your basement and identify the underlying cause of water intrusion. A basement can have many entry points for water, and a detailed inspection helps create a personalized repair and waterproofing plan for your basement.

Repair Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks are one of the most common causes of water leaks. These cracks appear in your foundation over time, expand gradually, and allow moisture and pests to intrude into your basement. Repairing these cracks is an important part of the basement waterproofing process to completely seal your basement.

Interior Waterproofing

If your old basement is not finished and you don’t plan on finishing it anytime soon, you can apply an interior waterproofing coating on the walls. In this method, a sealant will be applied directly to your basement’s interior surfaces, including walls and floors, to create a moisture barrier.

Install or Repair Drain Tile Systems

If your basement has a drain tile system installed, it may need to be replaced or repaired. You may need to repair the drain tile system or entirely install a new, more efficient one. By installing a multi-flow drain tile system along the perimeter of your basement, you can divert water out of your home.

Install a Sump Pump

Old basements typically do not have sump pumps. If they do, the pump may be quite old and not working efficiently. A high-quality sump pump is necessary to pump out water from the lowest points of your basement and evacuate it out of your home. Sump pumps work with your basement’s drainage systems to create a permanent solution for water issues.

Control Humidity

Controlling humidity levels in your basement is as important as waterproofing it. Excess humidity may cause mold and a damp odor in your home. If needed, install a dehumidifier. A basement waterproofing specialist will help you set your dehumidifier to the optimal settings to create a safe and comfortable indoor environment.

Address Window Wells

Don’t forget to protect your window wells when waterproofing your basement. Inspect and clean the window wells and clean out all the debris and obstructions. The window well should have enough gravel to facilitate drainage.

Establish a Maintenance Routine

Waterproofing systems require proper maintenance in order to function. Over time, your drainage systems can clog up, and your sump pump might malfunction. It’s good to establish a maintenance routine based on professional recommendations to keep your basement safe and dry.

Benefits of Waterproofing an Old Basement

Basement waterproofing offers a wide range of long-term benefits for your home.

Protection Against Flooding

A sump pump system combined with a proper drainage system is your best bet against flooding. Waterproofing systems work together to keep water out of your basement and maintain the structural integrity of your building.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Basement waterproofing reduces the chances of mold growth, maintains optimal humidity levels, and keeps moist air out. These provisions help improve the indoor air quality of your home and keep the living environment comfortable.

Added Usable Space

Waterproofing keeps your basement safe and dry, which allows you to finish your basement and use it as an additional space in your home. A dry basement can be utilized in many ways, such as a storage space, a gym, or a living room.

Increased Property Value

Waterproofing an old basement helps keep it stable and safe for the long term. It helps you protect your home against moisture issues, which improves its structural integrity. Your investment in waterproofing provides returns in the form of increased property value. Professional basement waterproofing also comes with a transferable warranty, which helps you negotiate a better deal if you sell your home.

Reduced Energy Bills

Openings in your foundation and moist air in the basement force your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable atmosphere. This is reflected in your energy bills as an incremental cost. Sealing and waterproofing your basement solves this problem and results in reduced energy bills.

Waterproof Your Old Basement Today

An old basement is more susceptible to water damage and mold growth, and it’s just a matter of time before these problems invade your living space and disrupt your atmosphere. Investing in professional basement waterproofing helps you solve the moisture problems in your basement and keeps your home safe and comfortable. In business since 1973, Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair has been helping homeowners restore, repair, and waterproof basements for many years. Our extensive experience and regional familiarity result in personalized solutions for your basement that help you safeguard your home without breaking the bank. Call your specialist and schedule a free inspection today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many older homes are not able to withstand hydrostatic pressure and structural stress as well as newer homes can. An old structure calls for more extensive repairs and waterproofing solutions. However, with professional expertise, even an old basement can be waterproofed reliably.

The cost of waterproofing an old basement depends on various factors, including repair requirements, the size and area of the basement, the materials required, and the types of waterproofing systems installed. We can give you a detailed cost estimate after an initial inspection.

You should check on your basement every year, particularly after heavy rain, to see if there are any maintenance requirements. You can also schedule periodic professional maintenance visits to make sure your waterproofing system is in good shape and working properly.

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