PREVENTING MOISTURE IN BASEMENTS

Waterproof Paint

Masonry paints and sealers, especially those that are described as
waterproof, are rather controversial products. Some manufacturers
claim that applying a coat of their waterproof paint will create a seal
that can hold back moisture, even under light hydrostatic pressure.
Others suggest only that their product, when applied to a basement
wall, will create a skin that inhibits water penetration from the interior
side.
Masonry paints do hold up better on concrete surfaces than other
types, largely because they are higher in alkali and therefore less
reactive with cement-based materials. But they also can trap moisture
in the concrete, which will cause the paint to fail prematurely and can
cause the concrete to degrade, especially if the water freezes. Read the
product label carefully before applying waterproof paint to your
basement walls, and make sure to follow the preparation protocols
carefully. If you have a foundation wall with an active water-seepage
problem, address the problem with the other methods shown in this
section, including grading and gutters. A coat of waterproof paint is not

going to make your basement drier.

Clean your gutters and patch any holes. Make sure the gutters slope toward the
downspouts at about 1/16" per ft. Add downspout extensions and splash blocks to
keep roof runoff at least 8 ft. away from the foundation.

Cover window wells that will otherwise allow water into a basement. Covering them
with removable plastic is the easiest way to keep them dry. Covers on egress window
wells must be easily removed from inside . If you prefer to
leave wells uncovered, add a gravel layer and a drain to the bottom of the well. Clean
the well regularly to remove moisture-heavy debris.