The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

First Aid For The Ailing Houses

Epoxy resin with filler may also be used. Since there is practically no shrinkage at all, the patch will not only bond to the concrete, but will not contract and crack, as will some cement mixtures.

Perimeter Insulation This type of insulation is especially effective in houses built on concrete slabs to keep moisture from working in around the perimeter, which is one of the vulnerable areas. Long slabs of moistureproof materials, such as Styrofoam, placed around the edges of the concrete foundation, repel ground moisture, and help keep the house drier and more comfortable.

Leaking Floor A well-made concrete floor is laid over a bed of cinders or pebbles to keep the concrete out of contact with the earth and to provide drainage. Much more commonly the cement is laid directly on the earth. Also, as only the top surface is visible, the under part is likely to be made with too little cement for strength and density. Although the surface may appear dry, a floor made in that way will probably be damp, and water collecting underneath may come through. For a dry cellar, the floor should be waterproofed. A simple process is to paint the floor with asphalt cement or pitch and to lay a portland-cement floor on top, 2 inches thick.

An overlay of epoxy resin may be used (see section on Leakage Through Floors).

Dampness from Sweating Basement walls are often blamed for leaking, when the real cause is sweating, or condensation. Being in contact with the cool earth outside, the masonry will be cooler than the air of spring and summer. When damp air is chilled by contact with the cool masonry, there will be condensation; water will appear on the walls, often in sufficient quantity to run down and form pools on the floor. This can be checked by keeping the basement windows closed on damp days. Sweating can be prevented by a lining that will keep air from contact with masonry walls; lath and plaster or plasterboard or plywood can be used, set on furring strips an inch or so thick to provide an air space. Should there be signs of dampness in the walls, the inner surface should be coated with liquid asphalt or tar before applying

Wet Cellars—Causes and Cures

The lining, for otherwise the back of the new construction will rot. Lining a basement is advisable, not only to prevent sweating, but because the finish will usually increase the value of the house (see section on Walls).