Wall Waterproofing Products EPOXYSHIELD® VOC Basement Masonry

This substance is known as efflorescence. It uses nanotechnology to form a barrier to help stop water infiltration. Test for loose, flaking concrete by pressing a piece of masking or cellophane tape at various places, then pull it off with an abrupt action.

Silicate-based concrete sealers, also known as densifiers, are also suitable only for walls that haven’t been painted or sealed. Because these are penetrating sealers, they can’t flake off or peel, and you can paint over them (but check the label first). Efflorescence is also a big problem on block. Additionally, leakage can occur at the movement joints themselves, through cracked, unbonded or misapplied caulks and sealants. Choose qualified, well-established contractors for all aspects of construction. Special care should be taken to provide adequate bond between masonry units and mortar (leaks often occur at bed joints). If exposed to rain or snow, masonry units should be covered because excessively wet units may not adequately bond to mortar and grout.

Mortar and grout must be mixed thoroughly. Also a vapor barrier under slab would be advised. The interior masonry walls may be coated with a brush applied cementitious waterproof coating to further the degree of waterproofing. Hydrostatic pressure can also cause mold, mildew and other moisture related problems in basements. Thinner consistency than paint but if moisture is present or if the basement is exposed to a high water table the product fails. It is also an economical option since it is concentrated and makes 5 gallons. This creates a problem since water tends to mitigate towards the walls of the basement; especially during rainy seasons and during springs inevitable snow melting.

These problems must be corrected to ensure successful waterproofing results. Old paint and salt deposits will prevent masonry waterproofing paint from adhering to the surface of the wall. Plug® is a quick setting hydraulic cement that sets up in 3 to 5 minutes and stops leaks even where water is actively flowing.

There are builders that prefer cinder blocks because they are much easier to work with. Split-faced block have a rough, stone-like texture on one face of the block instead of a smooth face. It could be anything, from cracks in your bricks or condensation within the wall to a burst water pipe. Allow the filler to dry optimally before grinding. Use enough product to create an impenetrable barrier against infiltration.

Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough explains and demonstrates the benefits of waterproofing concrete brick. Click here …EPOXYShield Masonry Waterproofing – Masonry Wall Waterproofing Products

Concrete is full of voids, cracks, and opportunities for water to pass through. There’s no easy way to remove this coating once it’s been applied. Not for use on floors or on walls with active water leaks. If the existing concrete is removed, the loose concrete should be removed down to a sound substrate. Apply to dry or slightly damp masonry walls. Is it really possible to dry out a basement simply by sealing the walls?

Water that gets through the wall runs down the back of the plastic, into a drainage system in the floor. If the tape does not pull the concrete from the surface, it can be painted. Penetrating sealants work 100% below the surface to protect your block and mortar from within, while still remaining breathable. These are very effective, long lasting and offer easy application and maintenance.

EPOXYSHIELD® Low VOC Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Coating Product Page

All laps and terminations would have mastic applied to guarantee a waterproof seal. What is the best ways to waterproof a basement? Regular cleaning of stucco walls will keep them looking new for many years. The higher the water table the more at risk the basement will be to hydrostatic pressure exerting itself to basement floors and walls. They are really the only effective solutions for waterproofing basement concrete block and cinderblock walls. Masonry materials should be properly stored, generally off the ground and away from detrimental materials. Grout should contain sufficient water for a slump of 8 to 10 inches to flow readily into small voids and cavities. Grout should be thoroughly consolidated to eliminate voids and provide better bond to masonry units and reinforcing steel. Masonry surfaces must be clean and properly prepared, prior to applying waterproofing products. Oil, dust efflorescence and other detrimental substances must be removed from the surface of masonry so applied coatings will adhere properly. Some coatings require masonry surface to be dry prior to application of coating while others require damp substrates. If you’re experiencing wetness on interior masonry walls, it’s important to determine what’s causing it. This allows the patch to lock into the surface properly. The typical high-density concrete block (8 by 8 by 16 inches with two cores) weighs 36 to 42 lbs. Cinder blocks are classified as permeable to water and vapor (10 perms). The products are solvent free, non-hazardous and non-flammable. The resulting hairline cracks from these phenomena will provide routes for water through the unit. Warranties vary by product and service. A dust mask does not provide protection against vapors. If continued difficulty is experienced, get medical assistance immediately. If swallowed, get medical attention immediately. Does not include the loss of material from spraying. Properly dispose of all soiled rags. Protect unused product from freezing. If an impermeable paint is applied on the outside face of such a wall, the trapped water may cause blistering and peeling of the paint or even worse, cracking and spalling of the masonry.

Cement-based paints are very durable and form a hard, flat, breathable coating. Unfortunately, these paints often chalk and fade with time and will crack and chip if applied too thickly. Latex paints are also breathable and quite durable under normal conditions. Although latex paints are permeable to water, some trap salts within the wall as the water vapor escapes. They can be blended into a variety of colors but, unfortunately, like paint, they cannot yet be clear and transparent. They coat the pores of the concrete masonry units and mortar, making them more water resistant. If the mortar does not bond well to the units, water will pass through the cracks just as in any other concrete masonry wall.

Integral water repellents cannot withstand water under pressure and should not be relied on in most below grade situations. Adding excessive amounts of these products may increase the water repellency of the wall, but over dosage can also decrease bond between units and mortar.

By using asphalt for water resistance, and plastic polymers for added ultra violet radiation durability, waterproofing membranes can also effectively resist moisture penetration through the roof side of parapets.

Cracks in masonry should be filled as they form. Likewise, caulking and sealants should be removed and replaced as they crack or separate from the substrates. There are many different types of concrete blocks that vary widely among regions and manufacturers. Blocks” – made with a very course aggregate with large toothpick-size holes. You can finish it off neatly by going over the mortar joints with a round tucking tool and make it look like a brand new block wall.

Maintain storage containers in a clean condition, free of foreign materials and residue. Not formulated for horizontal surfaces subject to foot traffic. Waterproof interior, exterior, above and below grade walls. Top coat with latex paint: 24 hours. Forms a long-lasting, tight bond to the original surface. Before applying surface treatments, clean substrates of substances that could impair bond of the various coatings. Remove loose or chalky deposits, parting membranes and efflorescence. Install per manufacturer instructions. If surfaces are sufficiently alkaline to cause the finish paint to blister and burn, correct this condition before application. Stir as required during application. Remove film and, if necessary, strain coating material before using. Tint each undercoat a lighter shade to simplify identification of each coat when multiple coats of same material are applied. Apply masonry coatings according to manufacturer’s written instructions. Remove spattered material by washing and scraping without scratching or damaging adjacent finished surfaces. I should just have a contractor stop by to do it for me.

Waterproofing Block Walls With Drylok Extreme