Inside Drainage for Basement Walls

Simple Fixes

• The simple approach to fixing or preventing basement flooding is to remove excess moisture from the space and repair and spots water might enter. Basements tend to me more humid than other parts of the home, a condition which is easily repaired with the addition of a dehumidifier. Windows, vents and other ventilation sources are common sources of water entry and should each be inspected to assure they are tight fitting. If it is a source of leaks, a waterproof sealant should fix the problem. Most of these techniques are simple enough for novice handymen, and are inexpensive repairs which should be addressed once every year or two to prevent damage.

Concrete Slab Drainage Channel

• An interior drainage system is a system which is ideal for basements with too much moisture. The easiest and most inexpensive drainage channel is one that is situated along the base of the wall near the slab. Water is collected and drained into a channel which sits at the top of the slab. The concrete slab system is best suited for concrete basement walls which have cracks and does not completely remove water from the space. It is not effective against water which rises from underground and still gives mold and mildew a chance to grow.

Drainage Channel Options

• Drainage channels are also available mounted along the concrete slab or within the slab edge. A drain installed beneath the slab is among the most effective internal treatments for basement flooding. This setup requires removing and replacing the edge of the concrete slab and placing the drain pipe below it. This setup is connected to a sump and pulls water out of and away from the basement. A channel installed at the base of the wall on top of the footing also requires removing part of the slab and uses a sump to remove water. This layout is ideal for masonry walls as it will drain the core of the block completely, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.

Exterior Additions

• Interior products will work fine without assistance, but a few simple steps outside will help reduce the need for basement pumps and decrease the risk of mold and mildew in the basement. Downspouts should be adjusted so water from the gutters is not dropped near the home's foundation. These pieces should be situated at least six feet from the foundation and should drain away from nearby homes. Lot grading is a layout design which creates a positive slope- - one that is graded away from the home. This slope should direct water away from the home and surrounding structures.