Of course, if the process were as simple as slapping a coat of paint on a wall this problem would not exist. There are several steps to follow in a project to waterproof your basement. Depending on the problem you have, you may need to consult a professional waterproofer. This is especially true if you have water running through the walls and into a drain. However, the bulk of waterproofing can be accomplished by a homeowner just like yourself. If you want to rid the basement of that damp feeling and reduce the chance of being exposed to mold or mildew, you need to follow a few of the steps below. Sometimes trial and error are the best teachers.

First and foremost, you will need to rid the basement of existing humidity. Without taking the existing water out of the air the basement waterproofing paint will not dry properly. Many different types of dehumidifiers are available on the market. You should purchase one that meets the requirements of the size of your basement. There are also several humidity reducing chemicals and powders on the market, and some of these may be of use also. Primarily though, just running a dehumidifier can work wonders for a damp basement.

Secondly, you will need to remove any loose paint on the existing walls. Loose paint weakens the bonds of the new basement waterproofing paint. Be sure to use proper safety attire when removing paint. Safety glasses or goggles are a must, and a respirator or dust mask is highly recommended. Remember to protect yourself when doing any work around the house.

Thirdly, select a quality basement waterproofing paint. You should take care when selecting the product. Unless you are sure what type of paint you are painting over, if any, find a product that is compatible with latex and oil base paint. Mixing the types of paint over one another just leads to more problems. The staff of your local home improvement center or paint retailer can help you select a top notch basement waterproofing paint that matches your criteria.

The final step is application of the new product. Remember to apply the paint in neat generous layers. You may need two coats to get the basement entirely water tight. Also remember that if you leave the dehumidifier plugged in during the painting process, the paint will be prone to dry much quicker. Some paint makers recommend to leave the dehumidifier off during this process. Once your paint is dry, plug the dehumidifier back in and wait a few days, then unplug the unit. Most likely you are good to go, with a dry basement.

Tanking is referring to the use of a bonding substance that when applied correctly adheres to the exterior walls of your basement. This treatment is best when applied during the construction phase of building. When Tanking is properly applied, it will keep the basement dry permanently. Unfortunately, in many cases a home’s basement does leak after the Tanking process is applied. If the Tanking does not hold, this will cause the need for another type of sealant or process to keep water and dampness out of the basement.

Another choice for waterproofing a basement is called a cavity drainage system. During construction a plastic membrane is installed on the basement floor and walls. The floors are deliberately sloped during construction, allowing water to drain into a sump pump that is installed. A cavity drainage is an electrically operated system. Any power outages and the system stops working because of the electric sump pump. Another disadvantage with this type of waterproofing is that after a period of time the membrane itself may mold and mildew. At this point the membrane will need to be removed and another waterproofing system applied.

An exterior foundation drain, or sometimes referred to as a French drain, is the third type of a basement waterproofing system. Some builders and homeowners prefer this system and rate it as the best waterproofing choice of the three. This system operates by using a ground drainage system. When installed correctly, the drainage pipes divert water away from the foundation and basement walls keeping the interior of the basement dry.

Basement leaks and dampness can cause serious damage to a house. A wet basement devalues your home and can turn a potential buyer away when trying to sell. Many do-it-yourself people can tackle a wet basement with great success. Most home improvement stores also offer seminars for information and step by step instructions for waterproofing a basement without hiring a private contractor. When making a choice about the best waterproofing basement system make the best decision by being informed.