Sealing basement walls and floor


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Old 12-29-01, 02:08 PM
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Sealing basement walls and floor

To eliminate cat urine you will need an enzyme digester cleaner. Urine is organic and requires enzymes to digest the bacteria and deodorize. The product will have to be given time to settle into the porous concrete. As the concrete wll tend to quickly absorb the cleaner, multiple applications will be necessary. Enzyme cleaners are like the pet mess cleaners from the pet store. Forum members tend to recommend Nature's Miracle and Odor Ban from Sam's Club.

Eliminating the odor which attracts pets will tend to deter the cat from returning to the scenes of its crimes to repeat them. If the cat is not using its litter box, you need to explore why. Make sure the litter box is cleaned and deodorized daily. Also, make sure the cat has no underlying health issues causing frequent urination.

Sealing a concrete basement floor is much easier than painting. A clear masonry sealer is recommended. The concrete will have to be thoroughly cleaned, removing all dust, dirt, wax, soil, and mildew. Grease and oil should be removed with detergent. Dryloc makes a concrete cleaner/degreaser. Efflorescence will need to be removed with an acid such as Dryloc etch. The floor should be thoroughly dry before beginning the project. A dehumidifier and fans will expedite drying. Surface temperature should be higher than 40 degrees. Make sure you run the fans and have plenty of ventilation. The sealer can be brushed or sprayed. One coat usually adequate seals a concrete floor. Always read and follow product directions.

Sealing basement walls will require the same type of surface preparation and precautions as when sealing the floor. Seal the walls first so you do not soil the freshly sealed floor. Use a drop cloth to protect the concrete floor. Examine walls for cracks and holes and fill with exterior caulk. Larger holes will require hydraulic cement from the home center. If your basement walls are already painted, make sure the sealant does not require paint free walls. Read and follow product directions. Failure of masonry sealers tends to be because of lack of proper surface preparation, applying to moist masonry, and not following manufacturer's recommendations for spread rate.

Sealing basement walls provide adequate moisture proofing but will not stop flowing water. Make sure you have no moisture problems and address these before beginning your project. Gutters and downspouts should be clear and carrying water away from the foundation of your home. Soil around the house should be sloped away from the house in order to properly carry water away from the foundation.

Applying masonry sealer may be a bit time consuming but it is not a difficult DIY project. Go to www.doityourself.com/basement for helpful info.
 
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Old 12-29-01, 02:18 PM
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Juliet M.

Juliet, again, I apologize for my reply to your post getting posted as a new thread. Perhaps one of the Christmas ghosts is afoot here on the forum. As long as you find this response and it helps you, then all is well. Happy New Year!
 
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Old 12-29-01, 02:24 PM
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Thank you. we will try that.
 
 

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