You can go for putty finish for wall. It gives a glass like finish and wont allow water to remain on its surface. Over to that, for extra protection you can apply waterproof paints also.
But the cheapest way to deal with groundwater wall dampness is to cover it up with PVC wall panelling. This is a go-to option when you are looking for quick, cheap and permanent solutions.
Applying hydraulic cement on the walls will also prevent any excess moisture from coming through the walls. The next steps, if you don't mind digging, would to apply a water proof liquid membrane on the outer walls and the top of the footer. You basically paint on 2-3 coats and you're set.
Using damp proof membranes are a great way to damp proof walls as they are easy to install and also extremely flexible.
The wall needs to be cut open to determine the exact location of the leak, and the damaged sections need replacement. Then, the wall needs patching, sanding, priming, and painting. A professional contractor is your best bet if you have plaster or the leak is behind tile or brick.
Open your windows to improve air flow – Ventilation matters
Open the bathroom windows after having a bath and the windows of the kitchen and home to let the fresh breeze come in, allowing the damp air or excess moisture to pass out the window and not to settle down in fixtures or walls.
DRYLOK® Original Masonry Waterproofer will withstand 10 pounds of hydrostatic pressure (PSI), equivalent to a wall of water 22 feet high, and is GUARANTEED TO STOP WATER.
Most standard buildings and contents home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by damp and condensation.
Seepage vs leakage –
If moisture is slowly penetrating materials (seepage) or there's active dripping (leakage), a professional can accurately diagnose and address it.
Under most standard home insurance policies, if water damage occurs suddenly or accidentally from a source inside your home, such as a busted pipe, it will likely be covered by your homeowners insurance. If the water comes from outside your home, it will not be covered by your standard policy.
Use waterproofing coatings to plug any gaps or cracks in walls to cease water leakage. Also, ensure your house has a proper drainage system to prevent water accumulation which can cause dampness.
Once you know you have a leak, you'll need to hire a plumber. But how do plumbers find leaks? Plumbers use moisture meters and determine the area of the wall with the highest moisture levels. Sometimes, leaks are located using infrared cameras, which point out the coolest (and wettest) areas behind the walls.
Applying a breathable sealant to brick walls can help in repelling water while allowing the bricks to release any moisture they have absorbed. This solution is ideal for homes that experience occasional, rather than persistent, water seepage.
Choose moisture resistant paint and wallpaper
If your home is prone to damp or condensation, choose wall finishes that make problem prevention easier. Opt for painted surfaces and choose paints designed for use in kitchens and bathrooms.
Utilise a dehumidifier to extract moisture from the air. Dehumidifiers are highly effective at reducing humidity levels, which can speed up the drying process significantly. Place the dehumidifier in the affected area and run it continuously until the walls are dry to the touch.
Flex Seal Liquid is thicker than paint and dries into a strong, rubberized coating. It can also help seal out air, water, and moisture and is chemical and mildew resistant - making it a great choice for your basement walls. Start by taping off the walls you will be waterproofing with blue painter's tape.