Foundation problems and moisture fixes

[StankyBeamer]

So obviously digging a trench around the building and washing and sealing the perimeter with an elastomeric coating or some other kind of foundation sealer, buy unfortunately I don't have that option as its around 30*F outside right now and the sealant won't cure properly.

So my idea is this: sprinkle a generous perimeter of calcium chloride around the entire building being used as a flower facility, to keep the moisture coming in from accumulating and also to keep the drywall from molding. Calcium chloride is Damprid brand dessicant, and won't reduce relative humidity below sixty percent so it won't over-dry my sealed room, might even get the added bonus of perfect humidity control, but my intent is more so to inhibit standing water where it's leaking in under the drywall. The structure is cinder block with a cement foundation and the room is framed with steel beams, so mold isn't an issue with anything but the drywall, cuz my contractor skimped out on me and didn't go with green board for the bottom six feet of drywall along the perimeter of the room.


Any thought or suggestions?

Thanks in advance,
Stank

 

[corky1968]

Don't bother. I say it's a waste of money and could do some damage to your foundation.

1. Calcium chloride will hydrate rapidly just being exposed to air and be of no use after it's fully hydrated.
   
2. It also isn't something you really want in large amounts touching concrete.

Read this and see:

Icemelters and Concrete

What about laying drain tiles around the building?

Like this.

 

[growingcrazy]

My first question would be what is the source of the water and can you direct that away from the structure to lessen intrusion?

I wouldn't even use greenboard in a basement grow with high humidity potential on both sides of the surface.

Metal studs, roxul or a foam insulation and cement board have been a long term solution.

 

[StankyBeamer]

Yeah I might just not worry about it as it dries pretty quickly, and drywall is cheap enough to replace if need be, moisture has only made it in when snow melts or there is a big rain, so I feel like as long as I keep humidity at appropriate levels and seal the foundation in the spring I'll be fine, the structure is my garage, it was cinder block so I finished and sealed it with steel studs, foam insulation, drywall, and silicone caulk. Seems there's cracks in the foundation behind where they drywalled and my dumb ass didnt think to check until I walked in to the room to find moist spots on the cement

 

[corky1968]

Just keep a shop vac or dedicated mop handy till then.

 

[RB56]

Depending on the source, you may be able to install a french drain, 2 feet deep, 6 feet out from the foundation. If the grade works with you, it could be entirely passive.