How do I build a base that is resistant to water damage in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Building a base that is resistant to water damage in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and understanding of the game's mechanics. Water damage can come from various sources, such as flooding, rain, or even waves in coastal areas. To create a water-resistant base, you need to focus on material selection, elevation, and structural design. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you achieve this.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. In ARK, water damage primarily affects structures made from less durable materials like thatch and wood. These materials degrade over time when exposed to water, especially in areas with constant rain or near water bodies. Stone and metal structures, on the other hand, are much more resistant to water damage. Therefore, the first step in building a water-resistant base is to use stone or metal as your primary building materials. Stone is a good mid-tier option, while metal is the most durable and resistant to all forms of damage, including water.

Step-by-step instructions for building a water-resistant base start with choosing the right location. Avoid building in low-lying areas or directly on the beach where waves can reach your structures. Instead, look for elevated areas or build on stilts to keep your base above potential flood levels. Once youÔÇÖve selected a suitable location, gather the necessary resources. For a stone base, youÔÇÖll need a lot of stone, wood, and thatch. For a metal base, youÔÇÖll need metal ingots, which require metal ore and a forge to smelt. YouÔÇÖll also need cementing paste, which can be made from chitin or keratin and stone, or harvested from beaver dams.

Start by laying a strong foundation. Use stone or metal foundations to ensure your base is stable and resistant to water damage. Build walls, ceilings, and floors using the same materials. If youÔÇÖre building near water, consider adding pillars or stilts to elevate your base further. This not only protects against water damage but also deters land-based predators.

Important tips and considerations include ensuring your base has proper drainage. If water accumulates inside your base, it can cause damage over time. Use sloped roofs or angled ceilings to allow water to run off. Additionally, consider building a perimeter wall or fence around your base to protect against both water and hostile creatures.

Common mistakes to avoid include using thatch or wood in areas prone to water exposure. These materials degrade quickly and can leave your base vulnerable. Another mistake is building too close to water without proper elevation, which can lead to flooding during storms or high tides.

Advanced techniques or optimizations involve using advanced materials like tek structures, which are highly resistant to all forms of damage, including water. However, tek structures require end-game resources and technology, so they may not be feasible early on. Another optimization is to use greenhouse structures, which are made from glass and metal and offer good resistance to water damage while providing additional benefits like improved crop growth.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial. For a stone base, youÔÇÖll need a significant amount of stone, which can be gathered by mining rocks with a pickaxe or an ankylosaurus. For a metal base, youÔÇÖll need metal ore, which is best gathered from metal-rich nodes found in mountainous areas. Cementing paste can be obtained by harvesting beaver dams or by crafting it using a mortar and pestle or a chemistry bench.

Tribe/solo considerations include the scale of your base and the resources required. In a tribe, you can divide tasks among members to gather resources more efficiently. Solo players may need to focus on smaller, more manageable bases and prioritize resource gathering.

Specific examples and scenarios include building a coastal base on stilts to protect against waves and tides. Another example is building a base in a swamp biome, where water levels can rise unexpectedly. In such cases, using metal structures and elevating your base is essential.

In conclusion, building a water-resistant base in ARK: Survival Evolved involves careful material selection, strategic location choice, and proper structural design. By using stone or metal, elevating your base, and ensuring proper drainage, you can protect your home from water damage and create a secure and functional shelter in the dangerous world of ARK.