Interior Basement Waterproofing Methods and Tips to Maintain a Waterproof Basement

The basement is one of the most versatile parts of your home. You can use it as a storage space, a play area, or a home office. However, as a homeowner, you should ensure it is functioning at its best. Waterproofing your basement is quite important in this regard.

A flooded basement is the root cause of mold infestation, structural damage, and health problems. Water intrusion can deteriorate your home, so effective waterproofing methods must be employed to protect the basement. In this article, we will discuss some interior waterproofing methods and tips for maintaining a waterproof basement.

Interior Basement Waterproofing Methods

Two types of waterproofing methods shield your basement against water ingress: interior and exterior waterproofing. Interior waterproofing involves everything from minor cosmetic repairs to vapor barrier installation. Have a look at some interior waterproofing methods. 

Interior Drainage Systems

Interior drainage systems, such as French drains, mainly capture water rising under your concrete slab and redirect it away from your home. Internal drainage systems can easily address the issue of increased hydrostatic pressure on your foundation walls or rising water levels. The internal drainage system has two main components: drain tile and a sump pump. Interior drain tiles or weeping tiles are actually a system of perforated pipes installed inside the foundation underneath its floor slab. They collect excess water from your basement and direct it toward the sump pump, which then removes it. Drain tile installation requires skill and expertise. You can contact professionals in the industry for this purpose.

Sump Pumps

As described above, sump pumps work in conjunction with drain tile to keep your basement moisture-free. Almost all professional waterproofing companies install sump pumps as the main part of your home's basement waterproofing system. Here are different types of sump pumps.

• ‍Pedestal pumps: These sump pumps easily fit in smaller sump pits, as the motor remains above the pit. They are easy to maintain and relatively cheap.‍
• Submersible pumps: These are ideal for homes with frequent water ingress problems. They sit inside the sump pit.‍
• Battery backup pumps: These pumps have batteries and can run for 7-10 hours before being charged again if the power goes out.

Vapor Barrier Installation

Installing a vapor barrier is one way to keep out moisture. During the installation process, the experts apply a durable barrier to the basement walls and floor. This keeps moisture out and helps reduce mold and musty smells.

How to Maintain a Waterproof Basement?

Only waterproofing your basement is not enough. You have to maintain it properly to prevent water intrusion in the future. Here are some tips for maintaining a waterproof basement.

• ‍Inspect: Inspect your basement walls and floors for cracks and holes. These check-ups should be done at least twice a year, either by yourself or with the help of a waterproofing company.‍
• Clean: Remove debris from your home's gutters and downspouts and ensure they are not clogged.‍
• Evaluate: Sump pumps are vulnerable to wear and tear. To ensure their optimal functioning, evaluate the pump's performance every three to four months.‍
• Dehumidify: Monitor humidity levels inside the basement. Use dehumidifiers to remove excessive moisture from the air.‍
• Repair: Your basement windows allow light to reach this dark space but are prone to leaks. If you find any leaking windows, fix them on time before the problem intensifies. Similarly, repair any cracks or gaps right away.

Keep Your Basement Dry

Different methods for waterproofing your basement include installing sump pumps, interior drainage systems, or vapor barriers. To fix all moisture-related basement problems, you should seek assistance from a professional waterproofing company. Once waterproofed, maintain your basement by conducting inspections, cleaning the gutters and downspouts regularly, evaluating the sump pump performance, and paying for repairs.