Basement water proofing

[Stoddard Barnhill]

Minneapolis MN area. Beautiful 3bed 3bath, basement is partially finished, we are experiencing issues with water in the basement, likely from the windows, and looking for recommendations for a basement water proofing company. We would like to turn this into a 4th bedroom after the water issue is handled and rehab the rest of the basement.

Does anyone know a reputable company to reach out to? Thanks!

[Marcus Auerbach]

Basement water proofing is a bit of a conundrum, because a basement is not a ship or submarine. Windows are not designed to be water proof. The window well is supposed to drain down to the foundation and drain tile system. A window well cover keeps rain out. In general most basement water issues can be resolved by managing surface water on the outside. Take a look at the property during a rain storm and see where the water is going. Anything you do on the inside is going to be costly and only a bandaid, if you don't adress the root cause.

Consider leaving a 3 foot hallway between the basement wall and the interior drywall. This way you can maintain access and small amounts of water dont immedeatley soak into your carpet and baseboard. Caulk the baseplate for additional protection. Be sure to run a good dehumidifier!