How to Stop a Basement Wall Leak

Whether you use your basement as an additional room or just for storage, a basement wall leak is not good news. Not only will the dampness damage your possessions, but it can also cause a health hazard as well. Taking the time to fix the leak as early as possible makes the job easier and less expensive. Follow the steps below so that you can carry on enjoying the use of your basement as soon as possible.

Step 1 – Locate the Leak

The source of a leak is not necessarily the same place that you have found water. Trace the water back until you find the point where it emerges from the wall. Be thorough as there may be more than one entry point.

Step 2 – Inspect Crack

Use the hammer and chisel to carefully open up any cracks or voids and inspect them for extensive damage or holes. Remember that the cracks visible on your wall are not the total extent of the damage. If you simply cover it over the water will find another place to go so you'll have more work to do in future.

Step 3 – Clear Debris

Use a small brush to get rid of any loose debris in the crack. Once you've got rid of as much as you can, use the can of compressed air for a final tidy up.

Step 4 – Apply Hydraulic Cement

Put on the protective equipment. Mix the hydraulic cement as per the instructions on the packet. Apply the mixed cement into the crack, making sure that you press it in as far as possible. You can also use small pieces of stone or already hardened cement to help fill the gap. Make sure that they don't protrude out of the wall though. For best results you need to use the hydraulic cement within 10-15 minutes of mixing it so you need to work quickly and thoroughly. To obtain a flatter finish to the wall you may want to use a mortar trowel to apply the cement. Leave the cement to cure.

Step 5 – Waterproof Walls

Once you have dealt with the crack in the walls you need to apply a waterproof sealant to protect against any future damage. These sealants should be applied to a wet or damp wall and will need to be left to dry completely before you apply a second coat.

Step 6 – Prevent Future Leaks

Now that you've repaired and waterproofed your basement you will want to make sure it stays in the best possible condition. Check around the outside of your home to see if there are any gutter pipes that are not properly connected and that any drainage run-offs are not accumulating against the side of the house. If you have a concrete slab or driveway next to your home make sure that they are sloped away from the house. It is recommended to have a 1 inch slope for every 10 feet of concrete slab.