A damp basement is more than uncomfortable; it can also be dangerous for your home. Moisture trapped inside the basement can collect along the walls and building materials of the home and cause mould to grow. This can be hazardous to your health and very expensive to clean up. Note a few factors about your choices for waterproofing your basement so you can determine the best choice for your home.

1. Dehumidifiers and sump pumps

For minor dampness, a dehumidifier can be a good choice. This collects water from the air and deposits it into a tank, which needs to be emptied regularly. A sump pump collects water from the air and pumps it to the outside of your home. This system is a bit more complicated to install, as it needs to be connected to a pumping system, whereas a dehumidifier simply gets plugged in. However, if your basement is prone to flooding or pooling of water, a dehumidifier may not be strong enough to protect your home.

2. Waterproof paint

A quick fix for protecting your basement from dampness is waterproof paint. When buying this paint, you need to ensure you get a type that protects from moisture and that is made for concrete. Note, too, if it works over a surface that's already painted, such as basement walls and floors that already have a layer of paint.

Waterproof paint can stop water from seeping in through cracks and crevices in the basement walls and floors. It's not always strong enough or thick enough for very serious leaks or if your basement tends to flood, but for mild dampness it can be a quick and affordable fix.

3. Cement coating

For more serious problems with water leaking into a basement, a cement coating can be a good choice. This is a substance that is almost as thick as cement but which can be applied more easily than actual concrete. It is spread over your walls and your floors if necessary, and it provides a thick barrier against moisture.

In many cases, it's good to have a contractor apply this cement coating, as he or she will need to mix it onsite and apply it with the right technique so it stays on smooth. A nice swirl pattern in the application can make it seem less industrial, and a color may be added to the mixture so it's more attractive. The cement coating will seep into cracks and crevices for a waterproof barrier that offers the best protection for your home from moisture buildup.  

For more information, contact a business such as Australian Waterproofing Company.