Wet basement but next to impossible to dig from outside
We noticed that a section of the wall and floor (corner) in the basement is wet. Perimeter flushing done once a year. There’s evidence of hydrostatic pressure as there are efflorescence on the concrete wall.
Now we know that the best way is to dig from outside and get to the root of the problem. However, the house is built on a hill. On the front (driveway), you are on level ground. Then you keep going up some steps until you reach the back (high point) which is maybe 10 feet in height or more. Furthermore, there is only 3 feet width of space between the house foundation and the neighbor’s fence.
1. Can you excavate more than 10 feet in this 3 feet of narrow space?
2. What other alternatives are available to relieve the hydrostatic pressure or to keep the water out of the basement?
Thanks.
Replies
One way would be to work with the neighbor to remove the fence and replace after the work.
You need more space.
https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&q=narrow+trench+excavation+next+to+house
another option is to divert the water inside the basement. route to sump or drain.
Example: https://joneakes.com/jons-fixit-database/1488-A-trench-to-divert-water-inside-the-basement
Have you guys heard of or used Krystol?
It is supposed to be a concrete waterproof sealer that can withstand hydrostatic pressure and can be applied internally or externally.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=215&v=KKIFXlenbKI&feature=emb_title
What do you think?
Interior coatings such as you point to can move water, but not make it go away. Liquid and vapor water will find a way around your coating, so the question is where you want it to go. if you think the problem is a little bit, once in a great while, and the existing wall will dry by itself soon, then such a coating might make sense.
If, on the other hand, you have a frequent source of water on the outside of that wall, it is more likely you would just move where the water comes in the wall. sideways or down.
https://www.buildingscience.com/documents/building-science-insights/bsi-110-keeping-water-out-basements
I’m about to go with a dimple Matt to a perimeter drain. Detailing the drainage mat can be difficult so I’m still going to finish the space using water resistant materials just to be safe.