Nearly 98% of basements in the U.S. will suffer from some type of water damage. Water poses a constant and serious risk to your basement. The water pooling near your house can soak into porous building material, making your basement damp.
Over time, the water damage can progress and result in not only property damage but also serious health problems. Luckily, you can prevent this water damage by investing in basement waterproofing paint. These products can be water- or oil-based.
But does basement waterproofing paint really work? Keep reading the article below to find out.
What is Waterproof Paint?
Waterproof paint is a coating solution that can help prevent the risk of seepage and dampness in your home. You can use it on basements, bathrooms, and more.
There are different types of waterproof paint in the market. Here are some you can use in your basement.
Epoxy Paint
Epoxy is a type of plastic resin added to the paint to create a durable, water-resistant seal. This will adhere to concrete, stone, cement, and metal surfaces.
Masonry Paint
Made waterproof through ceramic material and latex ingredients, this water-resistant paint adheres well to concrete, brick, and other hard surfaces. This paint can be combined with sealants for the best results.
Acrolein Elasticized Paint
While this waterproof paint works well on concrete surfaces, it’s very toxic. It cannot only cause damage to your skin but also throat and lung irritation.
Does Basement Waterproofing Paint Work?
Foundation made of concrete can be very permeable. This means they have pores that allow tiny amounts of moisture to move into your basement.
If water sits in the soil right up against your home’s foundation for long periods, there will be a natural capillary action that will pull the water through the pores in the concrete and into your basement. This makes your basements feel damp and musty.
Basement waterproofing paints are thicker and contain additives that can fill in the pores of the concrete, creating a barrier. This paint barrier can help stop the seepage of moisture into your basement, protecting it from water damage.
Nonetheless, this solution is only temporary. If you need a permanent solution, consider waterproofing with French drains and sump pumps.
How to Waterproof Your Basement
Don’t want your home to be at risk of water damage? Here’s a step-by-step guide to basement waterproofing using paint.
Step 1: Clean the Area
First, start by cleaning up the areas you’ll be waterproofing. Most basement waterproof paints will only work if applied directly to the substrate. If there are any existing coatings on the floors or walls, ensure they’re removed.
You can remove old paint using a sandblaster or wire brush. Once you’re done, wash the surfaces of dirt and dust. If you notice any mold, you can add bleach to the cleaning solution. Rinse the surfaces and let them dry thoroughly.
Step 2: Plug Holes
In case your basement has holes or large cracks, use hydraulic to plug them. It’ll seal the cracks, preventing water from flowing through them, even under a lot of pressure.
Step 3: Fill Cracks
For smaller cracks, fill them up using filler. For wide cracks its recommended to seek the help professional basement repair.
Step 4: Seal Openings
Small openings in your basement may also be putting your house at risk of water damage. If the doors and windows in your basement have tiny openings, use caulk to seal them up.
Step 5: Apply Basement Waterproofing Paint
After sealing the holes, cracks, and openings in your basement, you can apply a waterproof coating on your surfaces. If it’s a DIY project, remember that waterproofing paint is thicker than regular paint. This means applying it can be a little harder.
Use a roller that’s 3/4’’ or larger on the larger surfaces, and a paintbrush around your doors, windows, and corners. Apply at least two coats of paint to ensure it gets into the small pores of the concrete.
When You Can Use Basement Waterproofing Paint
Since basement waterproofing paint is a temporary solution, it may come in handy in a variety of situations. You can use this paint as you wait for more permanent solutions such as basement waterproofing with French drains and sump pumps.
Basement waterproofing is ideal when looking for temporary solutions to:
Preventing Diffusion of Water
Concrete foundations are porous. This means that water can diffuse into the basement. Using water-proofing paint can help fill all the pores. Hence, you can enjoy a dry and moisture-free basement.
Preventing the Growth of Mold and Mildew
Moisture facilitates the growth of mold and mildew in your home. Apart from causing property damage, mold can lead to health issues like allergies and respiratory problems.
A waterproof basement can save you the trouble of dealing with mold and its dangerous effects. It reduces the moisture level in your home, inhibiting the growth of mold.
Preventing Further Leakage of Your Basement Walls
A leaky foundation can make your home’s structure weak. It can affect the edges and joints where the flooring and walls meet, leading to foundation cracks and buckling of the walls and flooring. If left unchecked, it can lead to the collapse of your home over time.
With waterproof basements, you won’t have to worry about structural damage. Waterproof paints can handle seepages, helping to protect your structure.
Lowering Heating and Cooling Costs
Seepages in your basement can make your home humid, making your HVAC unit work harder to cool or heat your home. This can increase your energy bills by as much as 10-15%. Quality basement waterproofing paints can help reduce the humidity in your home, lowering your utility bills.
Find a Permanent Solution to Your Basement Waterproofing Issue
Basement waterproof paint is only a temporary solution to your leakage problem. For a permanent solution, look no further than Armored Basement Waterproofing, LLC. We do professional interior waterproofing with French drains and sump pumps – the only long-term solution that works.
Why not let our basement waterproofing specialists handle the heavy work for you? Contact us to get started.
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