How to Stop a Basement Wall Leak In Cracks

How to Stop a Basement Wall Leak in Cracks

What Will You Need?

Whatever you use your basement for whether as an extra room or just for storage, a leaking basement wall is definitely bad news. Dampness will not only damage your possessions, but it can also cause a health hazard. Fixing the basement leak as soon as possible makes the job easier and less expensive in the long run. Dry basement walls will last longer.

Wear the appropriate protective gear at all times.

Follow the steps below on how to stop a basement wall leak.

Step 1 – Locating the Source of the Leak

The origin of a leak is not necessarily in the identical place that you found the water leak. Tracing the water leak to its origin may be near on impossible. Be thorough, as there often is more than a single entry point. Determine the best way to treat your crack after you have discovered the entry points.

Step 2 – Prepare the Crack

Manually use a hammer and chisel to carefully open cracks and voids. Mechanical means can also be used. Inspect the cracks for further damage. Remember that the cracks which are visible on your wall are not the total extent of the damage. If you simply the crack with a waterproof mortar, the water will find next weak point and will leak there.

Step 3 – Clean Debris

Use a brush/broom to remove the loose debris in the crack. Once you’ve cleared off as much as possible, use compressed air, or use a power washer/hose for a final clean-up.

How to Stop a Basement Wall Leak in cracks

Step 4 – Waterproof Walls First Coat

Before you fill the cracks in the walls, apply the first coat of waterproof sealant that withstands hydrostatic pressure to protect against future damage. These sealants must be applied to a damp wall. Allowed to cure overnight before you apply the second coat.

Step 5 – Apply Hydraulic Cement

The next day mix hydraulic cement per the instructions on the packet. Starting with the sections of the crack that are not still leaking. Hold the mixed cement into the prepared crack. Press until leaking stops. Ensure that repairs don’t protrude from the wall.

The best results are obtained using hydraulic cement immediately after mixing. You must work quickly and thoroughly. Keep the hydraulic cement damp while it cures. Heat in the curing product may cause small cracks. Leave the cement to cure until it no longer feels warm.

Step 6 – Waterproof Walls Second Coat

The crack is no longer leaking. These sealants, second coat, must be applied to the damp first coat in a cross coat fashion ensuring all pinholes are sealed. Allow curing overnight.

Any spot leaks can be treated with hydraulic rapid setting cement as in step 5.

Step 7 – Prevent Future Leaks

Now that you’ve repaired and waterproofed your basement, make sure it stays dry. Check around the outside of your home for poor runoff, blocked or improperly connected gutters.

DO NOT Drainage too be accumulating against the side of the house.

Concrete slabs, pathways or driveways next to your home, make sure that they are slope away from the home.