Instructions for a Dry Basement
- 1). Tape a 12-inch square of aluminum foil to a wall in the basement on the inside and outside of the house. Check back in two days to see if the foil on the inside is wet. If so, there is water coming through. If the foil on the outside is wet, the problem is condensation.
- 2). Clean out all gutters and downspouts to remove any dirt and debris in them. Dirty gutters and downspouts will cause puddles at the bottom of the downspouts and allow water to seep in the house. Set a splash block at the bottom of each downspout to help force the water way from the house when it runs down the gutter.
- 3). Add a window well in front of all basement windows to protect them from the water. Cover the window and the window well with a window well cover to keep water from collecting at the bottom of the well. Run a bead of silicone sealant along the outside perimeter of the window to help seal it up properly.
- 4). Trim any plants or shrubbery that are growing along the basement walls. This will allow the soil to get more sunlight and dry quicker to help prevent sitting water from seeping into the basement. Fill any cracks along the outside of the basement with crack seal. Run a bead over each crack to help prevent leakage.
- 5). Keep the basement well-ventilated. Make sure it is heated in the winter and cooled in the summer. This will help dehumidify the air and prevent moisture from entering the house.
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