Tips on Choosing and Applying Basement Waterproofing Paint

If you have joined the army of people who are saving money by taking on maintenance jobs around the home yourself, you will most likely find yourself searching for tips on choosing and applying basement waterproofing paint. This treatment is a necessity, both for prevention and for correction of existing leaks. Do not ignore your basement needs when maintaining your home.

Tip 1: Cleaning, Drying and Prepping the Basement

Like any paint job, you will first need to thoroughly clean the area to avoid dust, dirt and other particles of debris accumulating on the paint.  After cleaning, you must take every precaution to make sure the basement is as dry as it can get. Applying paint to a damp or humid surface will be ineffective because the paint will not be able to dry. It will remain wet and pasty on the concrete and you will have an even bigger mess on your hands. If your basement is of a smaller size, you can get away with using three or four large fans and a dehumidifier. If it is a large area, use more than one dehumidifier and an industrial size fan. To save on money, check with your local hardware store or home improvement store. Many times stores will be willing to rent these items on a daily basis.

Tip 2: Preventive Measures before Painting

If you currently have leaks and cracks in your basement, you will need to measure the size of the cracks in the stone or concrete. If the existing cracks are less than 1/8 inch, you can apply polyurethane filler foam and this will assist in covering the leaks in the existing cracks.  For bigger cracks, you will need to consult a professional contractor to avoid dangerous mold and foundation issues. A waterproofing tar may be applied to small cracks on the exterior of the basement if you also wish to treat the outside. Make sure you have dried the surface thoroughly and always follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying any sealant. Depending on the smell of the substance you may also need to wear a mask so that you can avoid breathing the fumes.

Tip 3: Applying the Paint

Apply the paint as you would any paint job by using rollers for large areas and brushes for the trim. Make sure that the paint you have selected is an interior, oil-based waterproof paint. It is imperative that the paint has anti-mold capabilities. Resisting mold will help to avoid many issues in the future. Both oil based and latex waterproof paints will be suitable. An oil-base paint is recommended for basements where you will be hanging heavy items on the wall as well as areas you wish to clean regularly. Apply two to three thick layers of paint. This will help to seal the area.