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During a rainy season, a crack in a basement wall can allow an inch or two of water in. Before you do anything to repair the crack, remove all the water from the floor. Working in a...
Fill any gaps and cracks: Use hydraulic cement to fill any visible cracks and gaps in the walls and floors. Hydraulic cement expands as it dries, making it effective for sealing cracks. Mix according to the manufacturer's instructions and apply with a trowel, pressing firmly into the cracks. Allow it to cure as per the instructions. 4.
If you’ve noticed standing water on your basement floor, moisture along cracks in basement walls after a storm, or chronic musty odors, it’s time to think about waterproofing.
Check the exterior foundation walls for cracks or signs of deterioration. Inspect the interior walls and floors for water stains, dampness, or efflorescence. Examine the ceiling for water spots or sagging areas. Look for signs of mold or mildew growth in corners and hidden spaces. Test the humidity levels using a reliable hygrometer.
If you have cracks in basement walls, you must first plug or fill the wall cracks before applying basement waterproofing paint or sealer to prevent water intrusion.
We repaired a foundation wall, which had an 8-ft.-long crack that leaked water into the basement during periods of heavy rainfall. To permanently patch the crack we used an epoxy-injection system from Polygem, called the Liquid Concrete Repair Kit ($60).
Sealing basement walls helps protect your home from water damage, ensuring a dry, healthy living space. Whether you’re dealing with minor dampness or recurring leaks, understanding how to waterproof your basement can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.
Cracks in concrete walls can be repaired with a liquid or paste elastomeric compound. The compound is squirted into the crack with a bottle or forced into the crack with a putty knife. Cracks up to 1/2-inch wide and 1/4-inch deep, either interior or exterior, can be repaired this way.
You can use waterproof sealant for small cracks and holes, but Josh Mitchell recommends hydraulic cement or an epoxy injection kit for a more effective solution. 'These materials expand as they dry, filling the crack completely and providing a strong seal,' Josh explains.
Here’s how to waterproof a basement floor. Here are some things to look for: Soft or discolored drywall on finished basement walls. Excessive condensation on pipes and ducts. Musty odors. Cracks and efflorescence on concrete walls. Noticeably damp and humid air. Water tracks on wall around basement windows or rotted wood in window casings.