Unsightly weeds grow in sidewalk cracks.
When faced with a musty, damp or wet basement, it is important to determine if the moisture problem is on-going or a one-time event. Before the problem can be addressed, it is imperative that you determine where the water originated. Excess moisture promotes the growth of dangerous mold, damages the foundation and is both unsightly and unpleasant. However, the do-it-yourself homeowner can correct the water problem and convert an unused basement into pleasant and dry living space. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Examine the ground around the base of the foundation. Look for depressions or areas of standing water. If water pools around the foundation, add fill dirt and contour the soil to encourage water to drain away from the structure. Clean rain gutters of leaves and debris. Guttering blocked by leaves may cause water to overflow and build-up around the foundation. Rain gutters should extend at least 10 feet beyond the foundation. Surface water running seeping down foundation walls is one of the major causes of wet basements.
2. Inspect the exterior and interior of the basement walls, identifying any cracks or crevices. Groundwater in saturated soils, pushed against the foundation by hydrostatic pressure, may be leaking into the home through these openings. Foundation cracks can be the result of poor initial construction or the home may have settled over time. Environmental assaults such as tremors or earthquakes can also cause concrete to crack.
3. Use a wire brush to clean cracks of debris.
Brush each crack with a stiff wire brush to remove any crumbling concrete. Cracks or crevices should be clean and dry prior to patching.
4. Fill cracks with a pre-mixed epoxy and concrete filler compound. Smooth caulking with a trowel and allow to dry. Small tubes of pre-mixed concrete filler are available from home and garden stores or building supply outlets. If you are faced with a large job, you may wish to save funds and mix your own mortar.
5. Coat the basement concrete walls with a thick coating of latex based waterproof concrete sealer. Use a sprayer, roller or brush to apply, following manufacturer's package directions. Water soluble, sealer can be removed from tools with soap and water.
Tags: around foundation, concrete filler, faced with, wire brush
