Anyone that lives in a rainy climate knows how difficult it can be to deal with water damage. Rotting walls, flooring, and ceilings that are covered in mold and mildew can cause the value and enjoyment of the home to plummet. Therefore, it is necessary to take preventative measures. These are tips for how you can waterproof the walls of your home yourself, on a budget, to avoid the expenses associated with water damage repair – if the issues are minor.
Fill Cracks and Gaps
Whilst large cracks and gaps in a wall might require expertise, those that are minor can be easily fixed by the homeowner to save on costs. There are 3 ways that this can be done:
- Joint Compound for Drywall – This can be found in hardware stores or home centers, as canthe mud tray and taping knife needed to complete the repair, so this optionis highly accessible for beginners. This method requires the dust in the crack to be removed with a brush or vacuum before layers of the product are put on and scraped into the cracks, one by one, to dry and form a barrier.
- Screws for Loose Plaster – Cracks in plaster are typically due to a disconnect from the lath strips. To fix this issue, short drywall screws are safe to use for securing the plaster back onto the lath strips before filling the hole with joint compound to conceal the area.
- Concrete Bonding and Patching – For cracks in concrete walls, debris also must be cleaned away. Following this, the area needs to be primed with a concrete bonding adhesive before layers of concrete patching are pressed into the wall. Each layer needs to dry before adding another to achieve desired results.
Add a Protective Coating
For waterproof benefits, a protective coating can be added to walls at a reasonable cost. Beginners can do this without hiring a professional, making it affordable and convenient. This can come in the form of a paint to add color to the walls, but clear coatings are also available so that the appearance of the home remains the same but with added protection. The products intended to stop the effects of damp infiltration as well as the erosion and damage of brickwork due to the weather. However, for heavy-duty protection, it can be cost-effective to have ICF foundation waterproofing membrane installed for optimal strength.
Check the Drainage System
An effective drainage system is key to preventing water damage. Overflowing gutters, water stains, foundation cracks, efflorescence, puddles, mold, and mildew are indicative signs of underlying problems. Make sure to regularly check that the drains are clear to ensure that the flow of the water is not impaired. As the water is collected at the roof and funnels down by the guttering to protect the walls, it can help to add drainage ditches and extended downspouts to make the drainage system more effective.
This can all be done by the homeowner, but for more extensive damage a professional examination might be worth considering, as this can help in saving on would-be repair costs later down the line.
To DIY waterproof your walls on a budget, you can fill any cracks or gaps, add a protective coating, and check your drainage system. These are essential in keeping moisture at bay, preventing water damage, and expensive repair bills. Hardware stores and home centers offer the tools needed to complete these tasks at home, making it beginner friendly for homeowners wanting to save some money. It is worth mentioning that larger issues that are unable to be resolved by a beginner can worsen and lead to costs later, in which case it is best to consult a professional.
