Basements, Attics and Crawl Spaces - Damp Basement - need opinions
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rouble
10-03-09, 09:13 PM
Hi All,
Recently I decided to redo my basement. When I got all the drywall removed, the walls look like this underneath:
Picasa Web Albums - rouble - 20091003_uncl... (http://picasaweb.google.com/rouble/20091003_uncles_basement#)
As you can see there are many spots, especially near the base. These spots are not damp to the touch. Also, as you can tell there is a lot of efflorescence.
Now, some waterproofing "experts" have told me that I need to install a drain and sump pump on the inside of my basement. I feel that these salesmen are trying to sell me something I do not need. Other waterproofing contractors have have suggested that I don't need to do any of that and all I need is a waterproof coating.
My current plan is to clean up the efflorescence and apply some waterproof coating to the walls. For the waterproof coating I am considering Thoroseal, Eucoseal and drylok. I was wondering if on this forum have any recommendations of which one I should use.
I would also like to hear from anyone who thinks I may actually need a drain/sump pump solution.
tia
rouble
Recently I decided to redo my basement. When I got all the drywall removed, the walls look like this underneath:
Picasa Web Albums - rouble - 20091003_uncl... (http://picasaweb.google.com/rouble/20091003_uncles_basement#)
As you can see there are many spots, especially near the base. These spots are not damp to the touch. Also, as you can tell there is a lot of efflorescence.
Now, some waterproofing "experts" have told me that I need to install a drain and sump pump on the inside of my basement. I feel that these salesmen are trying to sell me something I do not need. Other waterproofing contractors have have suggested that I don't need to do any of that and all I need is a waterproof coating.
My current plan is to clean up the efflorescence and apply some waterproof coating to the walls. For the waterproof coating I am considering Thoroseal, Eucoseal and drylok. I was wondering if on this forum have any recommendations of which one I should use.
I would also like to hear from anyone who thinks I may actually need a drain/sump pump solution.
tia
rouble
rouble
10-03-09, 09:18 PM
One other thing, I noticed some small cracks in the basement wall. These are probably caused by the house settling. Any suggestions on what I should use to seal these cracks?
chandler
10-04-09, 04:30 AM
Welcome to the forums!! As with all waterproofing, it is best done from the outside. You don't have that option, economically. If it is only dampness that you are dealing with, what would a pump do for you? If you plan on finishing the basement, I would remove all the furring strips, fill all the nail holes with concrete patch or hydraulic cement and coat the walls and out at least 6" onto the floor. It may help keep moisture at bay. Then build your walls independent of the concrete. Some on the forum suggest using styrofoam panels glued to the concrete to help with both insulation and moisture. IMO if you are below grade, you are geothermally correct to begin with, and the styrofoam will ecapsulate any moisture entering. You will have to do your research on that and listen to both sides of the point.