My wife and I just bought our first home, and now we're facing our first spring with a leaky basement. We live in the Midwest, where a little water in the basement during heavy rain is somewhat normal. However, we're looking for DIY solutions to minimize the water problem, like applying rubber or epoxy sealants on the walls and floors. Has anyone tried this approach? What products or tips do you recommend to make it work? We do have a sump pump, which handles most of the water, but we're still seeing some leaks that are leading to mildew problems. Thanks in advance!
3 Answers
I've been there! I had a leaky basement too, but it turned out to just be some rod holes from the rebar inside the walls. Repairing them was quick and cheap. I recommend getting quotes from different companies to avoid the overpriced ones. My sister had success by digging a small trench inside and placing a drain tile, which helped direct water away from the wall. Just make sure you get multiple opinions to find the most effective and affordable solution!
It sounds like you're dealing with a common issue! A lot of basement leaks come from how water is managed around your home. First up, check your gutters and make sure they're funneling rainwater at least 8 feet away from your foundation. If the ground around your house is flat or slopes towards it, you'll want to change that — maybe by adding some dirt or even installing a French drain.
Painting sealants on your basement walls can help with humidity issues, but if you're facing significant water leaks, they might not be enough. It's crucial to check if the water is seeping in from rain or rising from groundwater. If it's the latter, fixing your gutters won't help much. A dehumidifier can address humidity if there isn’t any standing water. If you still have problems, consider an external waterproofing approach for a more permanent fix, but that does involve quite a bit of work.