Question
Jim,

We are looking at purchasing a new/old home. One we have looked at has a brick garage. It's about 80 years old and in great shape. The garage sits about a foot below soil surface. This is present all around the exterior walls. Inside the garage the walls are damp/wet and the garage is musty. There was a roof leak at one time but the shingle have been recently replaced.

What needs to be done to relieve the garage of the soil problem? Is it DIY project?

Thanks,

Bob

Answer
Hi Robert, You can probably do it yourself.  If the walls are exposed brick/block, you'll need a cleaner, caulk and a sealant for the interior.  It's just like sealing a basement. Visit your local hardware store for the right products.  
If you have stud walls with just a brick veneer, you'll need to dig out the soil to the footing, glue a rubber barrier from just above the soil line to the footing and then replace the soil.  
If there is damp sheetrock inside, it should be removed and inspected for mold.  
Not easy work but with the guidance of a good hardware guy, it can be done.  If you have a local independent hardware store, go there, not the chain stores.  You may pay a little more, but the right advice and products are better than a redo.
Jim