What is a dry basement?

A dry basement is a basement free from moisture, leaks, or any possible water-related issues. A dry basement keeps the foundation of your basement sturdy and stable. It is ideal to have a dry basement to make your house a safe place to live in. 

Benefits of having a dry basement

Having a dry basement has its own perks. Take note of these benefits to avoid any basement problems. 

It prevents from having basement cracks

Having water around or within the foundation can cause hydrostatic pressure, leading to cement cracking. When the leak continues, cold temperatures also can intensify when the water contained inside the cracks freezes and spreads. Maintaining a dry basement tends to prevent a snowball effect.

Faster basement remodeling

The first step in basement remodeling is to have a dry basement. It is essential that the basement is dry, as dealing with a damp and leaky basement will take the remodeling process longer as this has to be addressed first. 

Safe from molds

Mold thrives in moist environments, and leaky basements have the ideal atmosphere for the harmful molds that harms people’s health. Basements are full of mold-friendly materials, such as drywall and dark corners. However, if your water is not present or anything that can feed the molds, it will easily dry up.

More space for activities and storage

If you have a dry basement, it would easily be ideal for storing items or doing any activities. You would not want to do any activities in a leaky basement. 

Higher market value

A dry basement can easily say that your house is free from molds, leaks, and cracks. It gives the real estate broker that your home is in great condition with fewer chances of any possible repairs or construction. The home’s value can easily increase just by having a dry basement.

How to get rid of moisture in the basement

Is there a musty odor in your basement? Have you found any water stains or moisture? Until completing a basement, homeowners must address these issues. In the event that water problems arise in your finished basement location, swift and decisive action is required to minimize damage and costs. 

Keep your basement dry by following these top five tips.

Check your grading

Grading issues are the source of many basement water problems. Water from rain and melting snow should run away from the foundation; otherwise, it will find its way into your basement and cause havoc. Take a walk around your house and examine the scenery surrounding the foundation. Is it slanted inward? Is it a flat surface?

A proper slope slopes gently away from the house and can also be filled with gravel or other aggregates to increase drainage. Ensure that driveways and patios are constructed on a slight incline to steer water away from the property. 

Consider sealing the concrete

Applying a concrete sealer is a quick procedure that should be completed during the early stages of a basement renovation. The majority of high-quality materials are inexpensive and paint-like in the application. While sealants cannot withstand water pressure, they can prevent moisture and condensation from seeping through the porous concrete.

Some materials are mounted on the concrete foundation’s outer wall. If using a rubber membrane to cover the cracks and corrosion present in most foundations makes more sense than knocking down existing walls to add a concrete sealer indoors, do so.

Install longer drainpipes

Water in the basement is often caused by improperly sized drain pipes or insufficient gutters, particularly when combined with poor grading. Ensure the downspouts are at least 10 feet from the base and slant downward into a swale or drywall. 

Consider building a drainage system for surface water coming off the roof if you don’t have gutters.

Use a rubber filler buried a few inches deep, coated in dirt, and extends at least 8 feet from the base. 

Rain barrels are also installed at the end of drain pipes by homeowners. To avoid overflow, make sure these barrels are emptied on a regular basis.

Repair and seal windows

Water can easily reach via windows. Look for cracks and holes in the sill and frame. A good caulking job will usually fix these problems, but you may want to have your contractor install new windows. This project would also increase energy efficiency and provide a more comfortable living space in the basement.

Replacement is the best choice if the windows are old, broken, or warped. For windows in good condition, sealant repairs should suffice, which will help you prevent future basement water problems.

Invest in a dehumidifier

No matter how hard you try to keep water out of your basement, it will eventually find a way in. To reduce moisture and the risk of mold and mildew growth, invest in a dependable dehumidifier. This equipment is only valuable for hot weather or when a musty odor is detected, but it is an essential tool for preventing water damage in your basement.

How much does it cost to dry a basement?

Drying out a basement can cost from $600 for minor repairs to $10,000 for major ones such as adding drains and gutters. The cost would heavily depend on your basement’s condition, whether it has been flooded or has gotten leaks from basement cracks. 

Once you have dried up your basement, maximize your home’s value by remodeling your basement. Your basement will not only be a place for storage or for practical purposes but something more significant than that. You can remodel your basement into a gym, playroom, or even a mini theater. Basement remodeling is best done with the help of a basement remodeler. They can give you the best advice on how to dry your basement.