Can You Seal a Basement Yourself?

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, more than half of U.S. homeowners contend with wet basements at one time or another. While wet basements are sometimes caused by cracks in the foundation or leaky window wells, other times they can simply be the result of an environment where moisture is particularly prevalent, such as areas that are below sea level or close to bodies of water. There are a number of products on the market designed to allow homeowners to seal their basements themselves. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common DIY sealing methods.

Apply a Liquid Sealant

Applying an epoxy coating is an effective way to seal your basement yourself. You apply it much like paint, in long, thin coats using a hand roller. To ensure that it properly adheres to the surface, it’s best to apply the epoxy coating to a cool, dry basement floor. Then, wait a full 24 hours for the first coat to dry before applying a second coat. There are a few different types of epoxy coatings, including water-based, solvent-based, and 100% solid. They come in a variety of colors so even if you don’t plan on laying a floor down on top of the sealed floor, it can still be attractive and match the rest of your basement décor.

Install a Moisture Barrier

Another way to seal your basement yourself is to install a polyethylene membrane, also known as a moisture or vapor barrier. This is essentially a large sheet of ultra-durable plastic that is applied to your basement floor to prevent moisture from seeping out of the ground and into your basement. While moisture barriers are incredibly effective, perhaps even more so than epoxy coatings, you’ll need to install a floor on top if you use your basement with any regularity, as foot traffic can cause damage to the barrier. Many people also find moisture barriers unsightly as they essentially look like a giant tarp spread out on the ground. And, while some homeowners manage to install moisture barriers themselves, this task is not nearly as easy as applying a liquid epoxy coating, which is why many homeowners leave this job to the professionals.

Partner with the Experts at ESOG

For all your basement waterproofing needs in Georgia and throughout the southeastern United States, trust the specialty home improvement experts at Engineered Solutions of Georgia. Since 2007, we’ve worked with countless homeowners to provide lasting basement waterproofing solutions that include moisture barriers, sump pumps, and other interior and exterior drainage systems. If you’re ready to put an end to your wet basement woes once and for all, contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.