How to Keep Your Basement Dry: 7 Proven Steps

Home › Guides › How to Keep Your Basement Dry: 7 Proven Steps

Most basement water problems come from outside water finding its way in. Work through these in order — the cheapest fixes first.

1. Clean your gutters and extend downspouts so roof water drains at least 1.5–2m from the house. (Free–cheap, and fixes a surprising number of leaks.)
2. Grade the soil away from the foundation — the ground should slope downward from the walls.
3. Seal obvious cracks — small foundation cracks let water in and widen over time.
4. Control humidity with a dehumidifier to stop condensation and musty air.
5. Add or service a sump pump — with a battery backup, since storms cause both the water and the power cuts.
6. Consider interior drainage or exterior waterproofing for persistent seepage — see basement waterproofing options.
7. Encapsulate a damp crawl space if you have one, to cut moisture and mould.

Your local risk depends on soil and climate — expansive clay and heavy freeze–thaw make basements harder to keep dry. Check your metro in the Basement Water Risk Index.

Get free local quotes →