Water in the basement doesn’t just ruin boxes and carpets — it can lead to mold, damaged foundations, and a massive repair bill. But fully waterproofing a basement can cost thousands… and not everyone has that kind of budget.
The good news? There are affordable steps that make a real difference. Whether you’re dealing with occasional dampness or full-on seepage, these wallet-friendly fixes can help keep your basement dry without draining your savings. Here are the top cheap ways to start:
1️⃣ Clean and Extend Your Downspouts
- Importance: If your gutters and downspouts aren’t doing their job, rainwater ends up pooling right next to your foundation. That’s the fastest way for water to work its way inside.
- What to do:
- Clean gutters regularly so they don’t overflow and dump water near your house
- Add downspout extensions ($10–$25 each) to carry water at least 6 feet away from your foundation
- Use splash blocks or buried drain lines for more permanent redirection
- Cost: Most DIY setups cost under $50 per downspout
- Bonus tip: Check that the slope of the soil near your foundation directs water away from the home — a little landscaping can go a long way
📌 The fix is simple, cheap, and one of the most effective ways to stop basement leaks before they start.
2️⃣ Seal Basement Cracks with Hydraulic Cement
- Importance: Hairline cracks in basement walls or floors are often the entry point for water — especially during heavy rains or snowmelt
- What to do:
- Use a wire brush to clean the crack, then mix and apply hydraulic cement (about $10–$20 per tub)
- This material expands as it dries, sealing even active leaks from inside
- It sets quickly and can be painted over later if needed
- Cost: Around $25 for materials to cover multiple cracks
- Best for: Older basements with visible water trails, damp patches, or musty smells near walls or corners
📌 A 20-minute job that can block years’ worth of water damage.
3️⃣ Apply Masonry Waterproofing Paint
- Importance: Bare concrete and masonry walls are porous — they can absorb water from the outside and create that damp, musty basement smell inside
- What to do:
- Clean and dry the walls thoroughly
- Use a brush or roller to apply waterproofing paint like Drylok or similar masonry sealers
- Apply two coats for best results, focusing on areas with discoloration or past seepage
- Cost: About $30–$40 per gallon (covers ~75 sq ft)
- Best for: Basements with small leaks, condensation, or walls that feel damp to the touch
📌 An easy weekend project that creates a water-resistant barrier—and brightens up dark basement walls.
4️⃣ Install a DIY Sump Pump Alarm
- Importance: If your sump pump fails—or if your power goes out during a storm—you’ll want to know before water starts rising
- What to do:
- Purchase a basic battery-operated sump pump alarm (around $15–$30)
- Place it on or just above the top of your sump pump’s basin
- Some models can even send alerts to your phone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- Cost: Under $40 for peace of mind
- Bonus: You can also add a backup battery for your sump pump itself for ~$100 more, depending on your setup
📌 You can’t always stop a flood—but you can make sure you’re the first to know about it.
5️⃣ Reseal Windows and Basement Window Wells
- Importance: Basement windows are notorious weak points — they’re low to the ground and often overlooked until water starts seeping in
- What to do:
- Check for cracks or gaps around window frames and reseal with exterior-grade caulk (under $10)
- Clean out and regrade the window well to slope away from the glass
- Add a clear plastic window well cover (usually $20–$50) to keep out rain and debris
- Cost: Around $30–$60 per window with DIY materials
- Ideal for: Older homes, homes with below-grade windows, or those in areas with heavy rain and snowmelt
📌 A small fix that stops one of the most common basement leak sources before it becomes a mess.
You don’t need a $10,000 drainage system to protect your basement. With just a few smart, affordable upgrades, you can dramatically reduce the risk of leaks, mold, and long-term structural issues.
From downspout extensions to crack sealers and window well covers, these fixes are proof that a dry basement doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. The sooner you get started, the better your odds of staying dry when the next storm rolls in.
