I'm just wondering if anyone has any advice about removing interior waterproof paint from a concrete block foundation?

The previous owner had coated all of the interior walls with the stuff - and not very well I might add. We had some minor leakage which has been fixed but water wicked up the foundation causing the waterproofing to bubble in numerous places. I have scraped the areas that have bubbled but am worried about moisture being trapped under the remainder.

Should I remove the rest of it (fairly big job) and, if so, how do I do it since it is adhered to the wall?

Also, isn't coating the interior like this really counterproductive since it could just trap moisture and prevent it from drying?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

Dodge100,

What you are about to do is labor intensive. Basically all that you intend to paint will require removal of all lose or broken mortar, dirt, dust and other foreign matter before putting on a new coat of paint. All must be cleaned thoroughly. Regardless of the product you intend to use, they will probably suggest a clean, bare masonry surface. It may be applied on a slightly damp surface but best results are obtained when applied over a dry surface.

Remove old paint by wire brushing, sandblasting or other suitable means. Another requirement that works well in etching the surface before application is the use of muriatic acid. This ensures that issues like efflorescence, white, crystal-like salt deposits that prevent the waterproofer from sticking to the surface will be eliminated.

In all cases, if there is any source of water seepage at the floor/wall joint, this should be addressed as any wall coating would be a waste of money. If water infiltration is more than this, like coming up through any cracks in the middle of the floor or down the walls, then more serious methods of resolving this should be done first.

Hope this helps!

 

Thanks Doug, your input is very helpful!

 

Dodge100

You're very welcome!