Caulking gun
Exterior grade silicone or caulking
Putty knife
Window and door weatherstripping
Weather-resistant foam sealant
Inspect the windows and doors: Start by inspecting the windows and doors in your basement for any gaps or cracks where water can enter. Look for any areas where the caulking or weatherstripping may have deteriorated or become loose.
Remove old caulk and weatherstripping: Use a putty knife to carefully remove any old caulk or weatherstripping from around the windows and doors. Be careful not to damage the surrounding areas.
Clean the surfaces: Use a damp cloth to clean the surfaces around the windows and doors where the old caulk and weatherstripping were removed. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying new caulk or weatherstripping.
Apply new caulk: Apply a bead of exterior grade silicone or caulking around the edges of the windows and doors. Smooth the caulk with a caulk smoothing tool or your finger to ensure a tight seal.
Install new weatherstripping: Apply new weatherstripping to the bottom of the door and around the edges of the windows. Make sure the weatherstripping is flush against the surface and that there are no gaps where water can enter.
Use weather-resistant foam sealant: If there are any larger gaps around the windows or doors, use a weather-resistant foam sealant to fill them. This will help to prevent water from entering the basement through these gaps.
Allow the caulk and sealant to dry: Wait for the caulk and sealant to dry completely before testing for any leaks. Check the areas around the windows and doors during heavy rainfall to ensure they are properly sealed.
In summary, sealing basement windows and doors is an important step in preventing water from entering your home. Follow these steps to seal them properly and keep your basement dry.