A leaky basement is a common and serious problem for homeowners, leading to damaged possessions, health hazards like mold, and potentially significant structural issues. Waterproofing basement walls is a crucial preventative measure. This guide outlines the steps for effectively applying a waterproof coating to basement walls, ensuring customer satisfaction.
How Much Product Do You Need?
To estimate product needs, calculate the coverage: each gallon of waterproof paint typically covers 75–100 square feet. A minimum of two coats is required for effective waterproofing.
5 Steps to Effectively Waterproof Basement Walls
1. Remove All Standing Water and Verify That the Area is Completely Dry
It is critical to remove all standing water before starting any waterproofing job. Once the area is completely dry, you can analyze the damage and select the most effective solution. Any remaining standing water could hide a leak originating from the floor rather than the walls, which would require a different repair approach.
2. Clean and Prepare the Area
For optimal results, surfaces must be clean, dry, and free of grease. Use a wire brush to remove dust, grime, and any loose or broken masonry, ensuring all debris is completely gone.
- Check for and Remove Mold or Efflorescence:
- Efflorescence: These are white, powdery, crystal-like deposits on the masonry surface, caused by water-soluble salt compounds pushed out by water intrusion. The salt residue remains after the water evaporates.
- Removal: Efflorescence must be removed prior to waterproofing to ensure proper adhesion of the waterproofing paint. Products like DRYLOK® Etch are highly effective for this. Unlike muriatic acid, it only activates when combined with water, making it safer to store.
- Remove Any Old Paint or Other Coatings: If walls were previously painted, all old paint or coatings must be removed using a wire brush, sandpaper, or a chemical stripper.
3. Plug Holes and Cracks
Once the area is clean and dry, proceed to plug any holes or cracks in the walls.
- Larger Holes and Active Leaks: Use hydraulic cement like DRYLOK® Fast Plug. This product creates a waterproof seal in just three to five minutes and can even fix active leaks.
- Small Cracks: Address these with DRYLOK® Masonry Crack Filler. This is a rapid-setting, ready-to-use acrylic mixture fortified with silicone caulk. It dries to the color of concrete, does not bleed, and can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
4. Reseal Windows, Doors, and Window Wells with Caulk
During a waterproofing project, it’s always a good idea to perform an overall perimeter check of the home.
- Window Wells: These are common entry points for water and must be properly sealed. Use silicone caulk or expanding foam.
- Windows and Doors: Ensure all windows and doors are sealed with caulking to prevent water infiltration.
5. Apply Waterproof Coating
After the basement is completely dry, all holes are plugged, and windows and doors are caulked, it’s time to apply the waterproof sealer to the walls. DRYLOK® Extreme Masonry Waterproofer is a recommended solution to stop water infiltration through basement walls and is easy to apply.
- Application Steps:
- Purchase Quantity: Buy enough paint to complete the job; each gallon covers approximately 75–100 square feet. A minimum of two coats is required.
- Temperature: Ensure the temperature is at least 50℉ (10℃) during painting.
- Preparation: Stir thoroughly; do not thin the product.
- Application: Apply the first coat using a ¾-inch nap roller or a good nylon bristle brush.
- Drying Time: Allow two to three hours for the first coat to dry before applying the second coat.
- Pinhole Inspection: After the walls are dry, inspect for any pinholes and apply an additional coat to these areas.
Can DRYLOK® Extreme Masonry Waterproofer Be Used for Exterior Basement Sealing?
Yes, DRYLOK® can be applied to either the positive or negative side (below-grade, inside or outside) of the wall. It can be used during initial construction or after the build to provide waterproofing. It has been tested to ASTM D-7088 standards, which evaluate coatings for resisting water passage through concrete blocks in below-grade applications, specifically replicating resistance to hydrostatic pressure. The product has a PSI rating of 15, meaning it can stop a wall of water up to 33 feet tall.
Reimagine Your Basement Aesthetic with DRYLOK® Waterproofer Color Tints
While DRYLOK® Extreme Masonry Waterproofer is typically stocked as bright white, local suppliers can tint it in up to eight colors. This provides homeowners with aesthetic options for their basement, offering a competitive edge for contractors.
Trust in DRYLOK® for All Masonry Care and Repair Needs
DRYLOK® provides solutions for homeowners, DIYers, and professionals for various masonry needs, including patio sealing, garage floor painting, and basement wall waterproofing. They offer products to prepare surfaces, patch cracks and holes, and apply a final finish coat. By using DRYLOK® products, professionals can provide quality solutions at an affordable price. Contact them to find a retailer near you.