20 Tips for Waterproofing Your Basement (UPDATED 2022)

A basement can be a great addition to any home. It provides extra storage space, a place to do laundry, and can even be finished to provide an extra living area. But one of the biggest problems with basements is that they can be prone to flooding. Waterproofing your basement is essential to preventing costly water damage. 

There are several ways to waterproof your basement. Some are easier and less expensive than others. In this blog post, we'll explore 20 different tips for waterproofing your basement, so you can choose the best option for your home. 

 1. Start with a good foundation.

Make sure your basement foundation is in good condition and free of cracks or gaps. If there are any cracks, repair them with a concrete patch or caulk. 

 2. Install gutters and downspouts. 

 Gutters help to collect rainwater and redirect it away from your home. Downspouts should be installed at the end of each gutter to carry the water even further away from your foundation. 

 3. Grade the ground around your home. 

The ground should slope away from your foundation so that water drains away from your house. 

 4. Extend your landscaping fabric. 

Landscaping fabric helps to prevent weeds, but it can also help to keep water from saturating the ground around your foundation. 

 5. Use a waterproofing sealant on your foundation.  

A good waterproofing sealant will create an impermeable barrier against water. Apply the sealant to both the inside and outside of your foundation walls. 

6. Install a sump pump. 

A sump pump is a device that pumps water out of your basement if it begins to flood. It's a good idea to install one even if you don't live in an area that's prone to flooding, as they can also help to remove any groundwater that seeps into your basement. 

 7. Check your plumbing regularly. 

 Leaky pipes can be a major source of basement flooding. Check all of your plumbing regularly for any signs of leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible. 

 8. Use a dehumidifier. 

 Excess moisture in your basement can lead to mold and mildew growth. A dehumidifier can help to remove this excess moisture and keep your basement dry. 

 9. Improve your drainage system. 

 If you have a lot of rainwater or snowmelt that drains towards your foundation, it can overwhelm your gutters and downspouts. To improve drainage, install French drains or other types of drain systems that will carry the water away from your home. 

 10. Keep an eye on the weather forecast. 

 Be aware of any upcoming storms or periods of heavy rain so that you can take steps to prevent basement flooding. 

 11. Inspect your roof regularly. 

 Check for any damage or leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible. 

 12. Keep your gutters clean. 

 Gutters that are clogged with leaves and other debris can't redirect water properly, so make sure to keep them clean. 

 13. Repair cracks in your driveway. 

 Cracks in your driveway or sidewalk can allow water to seep into the ground and eventually make its way into your basement. Repair any cracks as soon as you see them. 

 14. Add extensions to your downspouts. 

 Downspout extensions help to carry water even further away from your foundation, which can help to prevent basement flooding. 

 15. Use a foundation waterproofing membrane. 

 A foundation waterproofing membrane is a thick, impermeable material that's applied to the outside of your foundation walls. It can help to keep water from seeping into your basement. 

 16. Install an interior drain tile system. 

An interior drain tile system is a network of perforated pipes that are installed in the footer of your basement walls. The pipes collect any water that seeps into your basement and carry it away so it can't cause damage. 

17. Apply a waterproofing sealant to your floor. 

A waterproofing sealant helps to create a barrier against water on your basement floor. You can apply it yourself with a brush or roller, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.  

18. Check your window wells. 

Window wells can be a weak spot in your foundation and allow water to seep into your basement. Make sure that they're clean and free of any debris, and consider installing covers over them to further prevent flooding. 

19. Use sandbags. 

Sandbags are a temporary measure that can help to prevent water from entering your home if there's a storm or flood warning in your area. Fill the bags with sand and place them around the perimeter of your home, being sure to put them up against any doors or windows. 

20. Have a backup power source for your sump pump. 

If your power goes out in a storm, your sump pump may not be able to do its job. Having a backup power source, like a generator, will ensure that your sump pump can still run and protect your home from flooding.

Waterproofing Your Basement is an Essential flood prevention measure every homeowner should take. By taking some simple steps like installing a sump pump, using a dehumidifier, repairing foundation cracks, and applying a waterproof sealant to your foundation, you help keep your basement dry and prevent flooding. You can call the local experts of AdvantaClean of Fort Lauderdale to give you a free estimate for moisture control solutions applied for crawsplaces, attics, and basements.