Hi…

I have got an old styled barn which was left unused for few years and  I’m just thinking of a renovation. I want to use it as my art gallery, to store and display my collections. I focus equally at adorning the barn with wood work. I’m hoping for wooden frames and wooden wrappings with professional appearance.The structural style is good and alright. It was constructed years back so I’m  concerned with the waterproofing of the basement. The walls that make up the barn are strong without defects. But for long lasting and protection of the barn. While discussing this with my friends, they suggested for a professional plumber who will be able to finish it skillfully. So I’m here seeking advice and suggestions to improvise the renovation. Do provide ideas on waterproofing and the woodworks to enhance the barn. All comments invited...

Around me, I wouldn't call a plumber for such a task (basement waterproofing). There are firms that specialize in just that area, maybe the basements here are just not that well thought out giving rise to such firms. It's not cheap either.

Welcome to the forums Sush.

May I suggest you post up some pics of the project?  You will get much better replies.  And I agree with Fred about the plumber... unless you are installing a bathroom!

Cal

As I understand, permanent basement water proofing is done from the outside of the wall. Today, it's done through injection of a sealing substance around the perimeter. In addition, hydraulic cement is injected into any cracks visible in the interior walls. Then it's plastered with waterproof masonry cement.

Finally, insure guttering and downspouts direct rainwater well away from the structure.

As Fred said, it ain't cheap.

 

 

I agree, a PAINTER will be better equipped for waterproofing than a plumber. As others mentioned, there are firms that specialize in waterproofing of all aspects (new and old construction). If you could, a few pictures would be very helpful to the rest of us to better understand your issues and concern.

 

Good Luck with your endeavors!

A few years ago we had the basement in our home waterproofed. It was done from the inside. Our problem wasn't seepage through the walls but up through the floor. The company cut channels in the floor and laid in corrugated plastic tile. They also lined the walls for good measure. The tile runs to a sump that gets of the water. It has been very effective.

Many things to consider when water proofing, everything from eaves to landscaping.

 

Steve

3 hours ago, Fred W. Hargis, Jr said:

I wouldn't call a plumber for such a task

neither would I..

 

1 hour ago, Gene Howe said:

As I understand, permanent basement water proofing is done from the outside of the wall. Today, it's done through injection of a sealing substance around the perimeter. In addition, hydraulic cement is injected into any cracks visible in the interior walls. Then it's plastered with waterproof masonry cement.

Finally, insure guttering and downspouts direct rainwater well away from the structure.

As Fred said, it ain't cheap.

 

definitely on the exterior method of waterproofing...

VOE says that the injection system misses and leaves voids in the waterproofing...

nothing beats a quality membrane...

interior waterproofing masks problems that will propagate and matters will only get worse.. more VOE...

A boat load of waterproofing details....

 

 

the fix details....

 

   

5 hours ago, Sush said:

I want to use it as my art gallery, to store and display my collections.

 

pleas forgive my manners...

welcome to the Patriot forums Susanne...

 

High on your list of things is HVAC (climate control)...

you don't want your art in an unstable environment...

too hot, too cold, fluctuating humidity that is neither too dry nor too damp... etc... etc...

 

From the Philadelphia Museum of Art...

Here's a place to start-

http://www.keepitdry.ca/

Looks you have some great replies here Susanne, welcome to the Patriot Woodworker! Great to have you aboard ma'am.

Welcome to TPW Susanne.

Thank you all for your valuable comments and suggestions. The forum is truly informative and helpful.  I will certainly move according to your guidance. Thank you once again.....

@Sush...

Please.. don't be a stranger....

2 hours ago, Stick486 said:

@Sush...

Please.. don't be a stranger....

I agree, please don't.

 

Hope you post some images of the barn as you work thru the renovations!

Welcome to the forums.

 

Is the basement block, stacked stone, stone set in cement, ???

 

Is it mostly dry now, dry all the time but feels damp-ish?, wet, flowing water?

 

I have to agree than an exterior seal with probably the the best long term unless...

you have a generally dry block basement with no running/standing water problems...in which case i would paint the

inside walls of the basement with something like UGL Drylok and get a dehumidifier.

 

Do you know if there is currently any footer drain on the outside (like in Stick's picture?), and sump pits if needed?

 

In any event, i would NOT store or exhibit my art work in the basement space even when dry and definitely use "conditioned" air in the upper level(s).