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Waterproofing your home is easier and cheaper than fixing water damage later. By following a simple yearly routine, you can prevent costly problems like foundation cracks, mold, and flooding. Here's a quick breakdown of what to check:
- Foundation & Basement: Look for cracks wider than 1/8 inch, moisture, and proper drainage. Fix small cracks with sealant; call a pro for bigger issues.
- Sump Pump: Test it by adding water to the basin. Check the discharge line and battery backup (if you have one).
- Gutters & Downspouts: Clean out debris, ensure water flows freely, and extend downspouts 6 feet from your foundation.
- Roof & Exterior: Inspect shingles, flashing, and seals around windows. Replace damaged materials and recaulk as needed.
- Indoor Humidity: Use a hygrometer to keep humidity between 30%-50%. Repair vapor barriers in crawlspaces and check for mold.
- Landscaping & Grading: Ensure the ground slopes away from your home (6 inches over 10 feet). Fix areas where water pools near the foundation.
Why it matters: Small leaks can cost hundreds annually, while major repairs like foundation fixes or mold removal can range from $2,000 to $6,000. Preventive maintenance saves money and protects your home’s value. Use tools like HouseFacts ($99/year) to track tasks, set reminders, and store records for insurance or resale purposes.
Keep Water Away From Foundation - House Inspection Checklist
Step 1: Check Your Foundation and Basement
Your foundation is the backbone of your home's waterproofing system. Start by inspecting your basement and foundation walls to catch potential issues before they grow into bigger problems.
Look for Cracks and Damage
Use a flashlight to thoroughly examine your basement walls, paying close attention to any cracks. Vertical or diagonal cracks wider than 1/8 inch can signal foundation settling or movement and might need professional attention[2][4][5]. Take photos and measure any cracks you find to track changes over time. Small, stable cracks without moisture can often be sealed with waterproof sealant. However, larger cracks, especially those showing displaced foundation material, should be evaluated by a professional. Repair costs for these types of cracks can range from $500 to $2,500[1].
Check for Moisture Problems
Moisture issues often show up before you see standing water. A musty smell in your basement might hint at dampness. Look for signs like wet spots, peeling paint, discoloration, efflorescence, or water stains. Using tools like a moisture meter or hygrometer can help identify hidden dampness by measuring humidity levels. If you find persistent dampness or mold, address it immediately to safeguard your home's structure and your health.
Check Water Drainage Around the Foundation
Step outside and observe how water flows around your home. The ground should slope away from your house by at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet[1][7]. After a rainstorm, check for areas where water pools near the foundation. Pooling water can increase hydrostatic pressure, leading to cracks or leaks. If you notice these issues, consider regrading the soil or extending your downspouts to divert water at least 6 feet away from the foundation[1]. This fix typically costs between $100 and $300[1]. Also, clear any debris from your gutters to prevent overflow, which can saturate the soil[1][6].
To identify hidden drainage issues, use a garden hose to mimic rainfall and observe water flow. If you have a crawlspace, inspect the vapor barriers for tears or gaps, ensuring all seams are properly sealed to block moisture[1].
Document your findings with photos and dates. Tools like HouseFacts can help you organize these records, making it easier to monitor your foundation's condition and track maintenance costs.
Once you've completed your foundation inspection, move on to testing and maintaining your sump pump for added waterproofing protection.
Step 2: Test and Maintain Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump is a key player in keeping your basement dry, so testing it yearly is a must to ensure it’s working properly.
Test the Sump Pump
Start by pouring a few gallons of water into the sump basin. As the water level rises, the pump’s float mechanism should kick in and activate the pump automatically[1][3]. Once it starts, the pump should quickly drain the water out.
Pay attention to any odd sounds, like grinding or rattling, which could mean parts are wearing out. If the pump keeps running without shutting off, or if it doesn’t start at all, you may need to have it serviced or repaired[1]. The goal is for the pump to clear water efficiently every time.
Check the Discharge Line
Take a close look at the discharge line to make sure there are no cracks or leaks. It’s also important that the line directs water at least 6 feet away from your home’s foundation[1][3]. Clear out any debris or ice that could block the pipe. If you live in a colder area, consider using a freeze-resistant discharge line or adding insulation to prevent ice from forming[3]. Run water through the system to confirm that it flows freely - if the water trickles out slowly or doesn’t flow at all, there’s likely a blockage that needs immediate attention.
Test Battery Backup (if applicable)
Storms often bring power outages, which is exactly when you need your sump pump the most. If your system has a battery backup, it’s a good idea to test it once a year to ensure it works if the main power goes out[1].
To test, unplug the pump from its power source and pour water into the sump basin, just like during the main test. The battery backup should activate automatically, allowing the pump to run and discharge water as usual. If it doesn’t, the backup system may need repairs or replacement.
Also, check the battery terminals for corrosion, which can appear as a white or greenish buildup. Carefully clean any corrosion, and check the battery’s age - most batteries last around 3 to 5 years. If your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s wise to replace it before it fails.
Keep a record of your test dates and any issues using tools like HouseFacts. Once you’ve confirmed the sump pump is in good shape, you’re ready to move on to cleaning and inspecting your gutters and downspouts.
Step 3: Clean and Check Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are essential for channeling rainwater from your roof safely away from your home's foundation. When these systems become clogged or damaged, water can overflow and pool near your foundation, potentially causing serious issues like cracks or basement flooding[1][6]. After clearing debris, inspect the entire system to ensure everything is functioning properly year-round.
Remove Debris from Gutters
Start by setting up a sturdy ladder on even ground, and wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects or bacteria. Work your way along the gutter, removing leaves, twigs, and mud either by hand or with a small scoop[1][6].
Once the visible debris is gone, use a garden hose to flush out any remaining dirt or mineral buildup. This step also helps confirm that water flows smoothly toward the downspouts without pooling. If you notice standing water, it’s a sign your gutters may not be sloped correctly and could need adjustment.
Regular cleaning is key to preventing problems like winter ice dams[4][7]. If your home is surrounded by trees, you’ll likely need to clean your gutters more often to keep water flowing freely[1].
After clearing the gutters, shift your focus to the downspouts to ensure they’re functioning as they should.
Check Downspouts for Damage or Blockages
With the gutters cleared, pour water through each downspout to check for proper drainage[1]. If the water backs up or flows slowly, there’s likely a blockage that needs immediate attention. Use a plumbing snake or a high-pressure hose to clear the obstruction[1].
Also, pay attention to where the downspouts discharge water. They should extend at least 6 feet away from your home’s foundation[1][9]. This distance is crucial to prevent water from pooling near the base of your home, which can lead to soil saturation, hydrostatic pressure, and even basement flooding. Even small overflows can create serious problems if water collects near your foundation[3].
Look for Signs of Wear
While cleaning, take time to inspect the entire gutter system for any signs of damage. Look for sagging sections, loose connections, visible leaks, rust, corrosion, cracks, or areas where the gutters are pulling away from the fascia board[1][2][4]. Water stains or peeling paint can also indicate drainage issues that need to be addressed[2].
Examine the downspouts for dents or bends, and check that all hangers and fasteners are secure. Tighten any loose connections as needed[1]. Inside the gutters, look for mineral deposits or algae growth, and scrub them away with a brush if necessary[10]. Re-caulk around joints and seams to prevent leaks before they become a bigger problem[10]. Addressing these issues promptly ensures your gutter system continues to channel water effectively and avoids costly repairs later.
Keep a record of each cleaning session, noting the date, any repairs made, and observations about the system's condition[9]. This documentation can help you spot recurring issues, such as areas that collect debris more quickly. Tools like HouseFacts can make it easier to track maintenance, set reminders for seasonal tasks, and monitor repair expenses, so you stay on top of your home’s upkeep[1].
Once you’ve confirmed that your gutters and downspouts are clean and in good shape, you’re ready to move on to inspecting the roof and exterior waterproofing systems.
Step 4: Check Roof and Exterior Waterproofing
Your roof and exterior seals serve as the first line of defense for your home. Even minor damage to shingles, flashing, or weatherstripping can let moisture in, leading to issues like mold, wood rot, and structural damage. Regular inspections - ideally once a year - can help you catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.
Inspect Roof Shingles and Flashing
Start by checking your roof from the ground. Use binoculars if climbing up is unsafe. Look for shingles that are missing, cracked, curled, or otherwise damaged - these are all potential entry points for water[8]. Dark spots or discoloration on shingles may indicate wear and should also be noted.
Pay close attention to the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing creates a watertight barrier where the roof meets other structures, so any rust, cracks, or gaps could allow leaks[8]. Loose or deteriorated flashing is a common cause of water damage and should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
If possible, inspect the roof more closely during dry weather. After a rainstorm, check your attic for water stains or damp insulation. Small flashing issues can often be fixed with roofing cement, but larger problems may require professional help.
Examine Weatherstripping and Seals
Over time, weatherstripping around doors and windows can lose its effectiveness. Inspect all seals for cracks, gaps, or signs of wear. If the weatherstripping feels brittle or doesn’t spring back when pressed, it’s time to replace it.
Check the caulking around windows and doors for cracks, gaps, or areas where it has pulled away. Peeling or sagging paint near these spots might indicate moisture issues[2]. Even a tiny leak can lead to significant water damage and increased utility costs over time[4].
Reapply caulking every 3–5 years - or sooner if you notice gaps, peeling, or mold. Use an exterior-grade sealant and ensure it’s applied in a smooth, continuous line for the best protection.
Step 5: Check Humidity and Crawlspace Conditions
Once you've fortified your home's exterior, it’s time to focus on indoor humidity and crawlspace conditions. These areas play a crucial role in preventing mold, mildew, and structural issues. Even with exterior waterproofing, moisture can still creep inside - especially in basements and crawlspaces. Keeping indoor moisture levels in check is an essential part of your yearly waterproofing routine.
Use a Hygrometer to Monitor Humidity Levels
A hygrometer is a handy tool to measure indoor humidity. Ideally, you want to keep humidity levels between 30% and 50%[3]. Anything above 50% creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can compromise your waterproofing efforts and even affect your family’s health.
Place hygrometers in key areas like the basement, crawlspace, and main living spaces. Regularly monitor these readings, especially during humid summers or after heavy rains. If the humidity consistently exceeds 50%, it’s time to consider a high-efficiency dehumidifier.
Dehumidifiers are particularly effective in basements and crawlspaces when paired with proper ventilation and vapor barriers. Make sure the dehumidifier you choose is appropriately sized for the space. Regular maintenance is essential, whether that means emptying the water tank or ensuring proper drainage for condensate water.
Once humidity is under control, shift your focus to inspecting the crawlspace vapor barriers.
Inspect Crawlspace Vapor Barriers
Vapor barriers are critical for keeping moisture from seeping into your home’s structure through the soil[1]. Without an intact barrier, crawlspace moisture can cause serious damage, often going unnoticed until the problem becomes severe.
As part of your annual maintenance, carefully inspect the vapor barrier. Look for any tears, gaps, or punctures, as well as areas where the barrier has detached from walls or supports[1]. Even small openings can allow significant moisture intrusion, so ensure all seams are tightly sealed.
Check for standing water beneath the liner, especially after heavy rains. If you spot pooling water, the barrier may need professional cleaning or replacement. Persistent water issues could indicate a need for improved drainage solutions.
If the vapor barrier shows wear or damage, repair or replace it promptly to prevent moisture-related problems like mold growth, wood rot, or even foundation issues. After ensuring the barrier is in good shape, look for any signs of mold or mildew.
Step 6: Check Landscaping and Grading
After finishing your indoor inspections, it’s time to step outside and take a closer look at your yard. Poor drainage in your outdoor spaces can undo all the waterproofing efforts inside. Landscaping and grading play a key role in keeping water away from your foundation. Over time, soil settles, and changes like new landscaping or construction can disrupt the natural flow of water, potentially leading to problems.
Check the Slope Around Your Foundation
The ground surrounding your foundation should slope away from your house at a 5% grade - that’s a 6-inch drop over a 10-foot distance[8]. This slope is critical for preventing water from pooling against your foundation walls, which can lead to basement leaks or even structural damage.
The National Association of Home Builders reports that improper grading is responsible for over 30% of basement flooding incidents.
That’s a lot of unnecessary headaches for homeowners - all because the ground doesn’t slope in the right direction.
To check your slope, place a 10-foot board along the foundation. The end of the board farthest from the house should be 6 inches higher than the end touching the foundation. This simple test ensures water flows away from your home instead of collecting at its base.
Inspect the slope around your entire foundation. Areas where soil has settled may no longer drain properly. Pay extra attention to spots where you’ve noticed moisture in your basement or crawlspace - these often line up with exterior areas where the slope isn’t adequate.
If you find problem areas, you can usually fix them by adding and compacting soil to rebuild the slope. For more serious issues, consider installing French drains or hiring professionals to regrade your yard.
Check for Landscaping Changes
Even small changes to your landscaping can impact how water flows around your property[1]. A new patio, deck, or even a neighbor’s construction project can unintentionally redirect water toward your foundation.
The University of Minnesota Extension shared a case study about a Minneapolis homeowner who faced repeated basement flooding after installing a patio. The patio directed water straight to the foundation. Regrading the area and adding a French drain solved the issue entirely.
Take stock of any updates you’ve made to your yard in the past year. Did you add a flower bed, walkway, or new shrubs? Features like these can change drainage patterns. For example, a patio or walkway sloping toward your house creates a direct path for water to reach your foundation. Similarly, flower beds or mulch piled against your home can trap water instead of letting it flow away.
Trees and shrubs planted too close to your foundation can also cause trouble. Their roots can create dips in the soil, forming pockets where water collects. Even changes outside your control, like a neighbor’s new driveway or yard regrading, can shift water flow, sending it toward your home.
To counter these issues, make sure downspouts are positioned to direct water a safe distance from your house. Extensions can help if needed. Test these adjustments during rainfall to ensure they’re effective.
Watch Water Flow During Rainfall
The best time to spot drainage problems is during a heavy rain. Watching how water moves across your property in real time can reveal issues that aren’t visible when everything is dry.
During the next downpour, take a walk around your home. Look for water pooling near the foundation and check whether gutters and downspouts are directing water away properly. Overflow at the base of your house, visible erosion channels, or areas where water lingers long after the rain stops are all signs of drainage issues.
According to the EPA’s WaterSense program, proper grading and landscaping can reduce the risk of basement flooding by up to 50% in areas with heavy rainfall. Simply guiding water away from your home can make a significant difference.
It’s also helpful to document how your yard handles water throughout the year. Spring snowmelt, summer storms, fall rains, and winter freeze-thaw cycles all stress your drainage system in different ways. Taking photos or videos during these moments helps you identify patterns and catch problems early.
Keep a record of what you observe, including photos, notes on landscaping changes, and any fixes you make. Tools like HouseFacts make it easy to store this information and set reminders to check water flow during future storms, so this important task doesn’t get overlooked.
Proper grading plays a critical role in protecting your foundation. When water pools against your home, it creates pressure that can force moisture through cracks, weaken walls, and erode the soil beneath your house. Over time, this can lead to settling and structural damage. Maintaining the right slope and directing water away from your foundation is a proactive and far more affordable approach than repairing damage later.
Once you’ve confirmed that water is consistently flowing away from your home, you can feel confident that your outdoor waterproofing checks are complete. If persistent pooling or drainage issues remain, it may be time to consult a professional to prevent bigger problems down the line.
Step 7: When to Call a Professional
After exploring both indoor and outdoor waterproofing strategies, it’s important to recognize when you need professional help. While regular maintenance can catch many issues early, some problems require expert attention to avoid expensive repairs down the line.
Professionals conduct thorough inspections, covering critical areas like your foundation, moisture levels, drainage systems, and sump pumps. These checks can uncover hidden issues before they escalate. Even if your current waterproofing system seems to be working fine, keep in mind that most systems need updates every 7 to 10 years. Homes settle over time, and changing weather patterns can make older systems less effective[1].
Recurring Water Intrusion or Dampness
If you’re dealing with persistent moisture or dampness, it’s a clear sign your waterproofing system isn’t doing its job. Look out for water pooling near the foundation, damp spots on basement walls, or ongoing condensation problems despite improving ventilation.
Musty odors in basements or crawlspaces are another red flag for moisture issues. Humidity levels consistently above 50% could point to ventilation problems or leaks[3]. Keeping a log of issues - like photos, humidity readings, and notes about when and where water intrusion occurs - can help professionals diagnose the problem more accurately.
Even small leaks can add up, draining hundreds of dollars from your wallet every year if ignored[4]. Mold growth or any signs of structural damage should also prompt immediate action.
Visible Mold or Structural Damage
Mold or mildew growth is a strong indicator that your moisture management has failed. Beyond being unpleasant, mold can also signal more serious waterproofing or structural issues. Similarly, hairline cracks in your foundation may seem minor at first but can expand over time, allowing water to seep in and potentially causing significant structural problems.
If cracks keep reappearing or growing larger after repairs, the underlying issue may require more than a surface-level solution. Professionals can determine whether these cracks are purely cosmetic or a sign of deeper structural concerns, then recommend the best course of action.
Sump Pump or Drainage System Failures
Your sump pump is a key defense against basement flooding, so any malfunction should be addressed quickly. If your sump pump runs nonstop, doesn’t activate when it should, or shows visible signs of wear, it’s time to call in a professional. Regularly testing the pump by pouring water into the basin can help spot problems early. If the pump’s battery backup system isn’t working or it frequently needs repairs, professional servicing or replacement is essential.
Drainage problems also deserve attention. A professional can assess your system and recommend improvements. Upgrades like battery backup sump pumps, smart monitoring systems, or enhanced vapor barriers can strengthen your home’s defenses if your current setup isn’t cutting it.
Professional waterproofing services aren’t just about solving existing problems - they’re about preventing future ones. Pairing regular professional inspections with your annual DIY maintenance routine ensures your home stays protected from water damage year-round.
Conclusion
Staying organized helps ensure these maintenance tasks don’t get overlooked. Tracking things like gutter cleanings and sump pump tests makes it easier to stay ahead of potential issues. Tools like HouseFacts simplify the process by letting you manage schedules, store repair records, upload photos, and set reminders, all in one place.
With everything organized, you can quickly reference past work for insurance, inspections, or a future home sale. You can also create seasonal checklists, track maintenance costs, and share schedules with contractors when needed.
Protecting your home from water damage is about consistency and documentation. By following this checklist and keeping clear records, you’re safeguarding your investment and building a reliable history of responsible homeownership that adds long-term value.
