I read where B Dry has done 20 million basements. Doesn't this say basements are a problem waiting to happen

Answer 1

Nat's correct. If a basement is built correctly (waterproofed properly at construction) they will remain dusty dry. I've built several in very low areas and they've stayed bone dry for eight years now; even in torrential rains. The key is to drain the water away from the walls and to a designated pipe pitched away properly. I've used Tuff-n-Dry (I don't work for them- there are several companies that use a similar approach) and prepare the perimeter gravel bed correctly, I have a lot of expensive woodworking tools and wood in my basement and I've never seen a drop of water even in days of hard rain. A LOT of water poured out the perimeter drains though. That water would have otherwise found its way into the basement I'm certain.

Answer 2

The walls of a basement are in direct contact with the soil. If you have ever dug down more than a few inches into the earth you know that soil is always moist. The moisture from the soil will wick through the basement wall and can collect in the basement if the wall is not properly sealed. The sealent need to be put on the outer surface of the wall for max effect. Another thing that can help prevent problems is a proper drainage system. If a basement is properly made it won't be a problem. But, if the builder takes short cuts and the basement is poorly made it can be leaky and damp no matter what you do to it.