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.