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It’s one of the most common problems with houses: the wet basement. In this episode of the podcast, we look at two popular waterproofing methods plus the steps you can take to avoid taking such drastic measures.
Topics covered
- Sources of water issues in a basement
- Foundation structure
- Exterior waterproofing membrane system
- Interior waterproofing system (French drain)
- The importance of gutters.
Key Takeaway
Most wet basement problems can be solved from the outside:
- Make sure your gutters are clean. (Overflowing water will end up against the foundation)
- Make sure your downspouts direct water far enough away from the foundation (about 4-6 feet)
- Make sure your landscaping slopes away from the house to avoid water collecting against the foundation.
If these tips sound familiar, they are the ones that Tom Kraeutler repeats on a weekly basis on The Money Pit Radio Show. They are also the least expensive and least disruptive and will often be enough to keep your basement dry.
Resources and Links
Delta Membrane: Exterior waterproofing membrane
TripleSafe Sump Pump System from Basement Systems: This is the sump pump system we have had installed in two of our houses.
WaterGuard Basement Drain System: Interior waterproofing. This is the system we had installed in the basement of our current house. Also a Basement Systems product.
Certainteed MemBrain: Continuous air barrier and smart vapor retarder
Basement Waterproofing Tips | How to fix a wet basement: Tom Kraeutler’s article on The Money Pit’s website.
Basement Waterproofing: Article on this website.