 | Ron Long
is manager of the Ace Hardware Store in front of the Wichita Mall at 4183 E. Harry in Wichita. Ron has over 30 years experience and has been with this Ace store for 20 years. He has extensive training in plumbing, electricity, lawn & garden, paint, construction, window repair and much more. He has always enjoyed helping people with their projects and answering their questions. He is available to answer any of your home repair questions. You may contact Ron at the store by e-mail at a09476a@acehardware.com, by fax at (316) 685-4994, or by phone at (316) 685-7201. |
Home Improvement
2003-01-01 12:08:00
Basement leaks
: I have a leak in the bottom of the wall in my basement. I have had people come in and tell me the drain tile is bad and that it will need to be replaced. The estimate is for digging down… inside the house… around each wall… and laying new drain tile. Isn't there an easier and less costly way? They want $8,000!
ANSWER: Unfortunately leaky basements are fairly common in both old and new construction due to settling, high water tables, and poor drainage to name just a few. Depending on the severity of the leak many times you can repair it yourself. In the case where the leak is at the bottom of the basement wall there are several ways to repair it. If the leak is only a little seepage after a series of hard rains and is located in one or only a few spots, the wall can be sealed with an hydraulic cement based paint. This paint fills the pores of the cement and slightly expands in the pores to form a waterproof seal. If hairline cracks are present try cleaning them out and filling them with a hydraulic water stop cement or an epoxy based sealant. If it is a severe teak that after every rain leaks, it may require sealing from both the inside and the outside of the wall. Make sure rain gutters are in good condition and are set up to carry the water far enough away from the foundation will help. Also making sure the dirt and landscaping is slopped away from the house will help. A leak is a leak, but every circumstance is a little different. You may want to visit your local hardware/home improvement center and let a professional help you more with your problem.
