A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Waterproof Basement Paint for Beginners

Are you ready to give your basement a much needed facelift? Waterproof basement paint is an excellent way to add a fresh and modern look to your home’s lower level. Here's what you need to know.

Are you ready to give your basement a much needed facelift? Waterproof basement paint is an excellent way to add a fresh and modern look to your home’s lower level. Painting your basement to make waterproof not only looks great, but it also helps to protect the walls from water damage. It can be a daunting task--especially for beginners--but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to tackle the project with confidence. In no time at all, you’ll have a beautiful and waterproofed basement that you’ll be proud to show off. Let’s get started! 

Preparing Your Basement

Before you get started painting, you’ll want to make sure that your basement is ready for the project. Start by removing any furniture or items from the floor and walls. Remove any knick-knacks from the walls, and make sure to clean the walls thoroughly with a mild detergent.

You’ll also want to ensure in advance that the temperature in the room is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The last thing you want is for water to freeze and then expand, causing damage to the walls. If you’re applying a primer before painting, it’s best to wait at least at least 24-48 hours after using a cleaning solution to make sure that everything is completely dry. 

Choosing the Right Paint

Finding the right waterproofing paint for your basement is easy. The Liquid Rubber Color Sealant comes in a wide array of different color options. It’s VOC-free, nontoxic and easy to apply to your basement's interior walls. Just select the color that you want and place your order to have it quickly delivered for all your DIY home improvement needs!

Gathering the Supplies

If you’ve never applied water-based paint before, you’ll want to double check that you have all the right supplies. 

Here’s your easy checklist: 

  • Select clothing that you can easily get paint on and off of or that you don’t mind getting dirty.
  • Make sure that your goggles are clean and that they fit snugly around your face.
  • A drop cloth is a great way to protect your floors from dripping paint. 
  • Ensure that you have enough brushes or rollers for every wall in your basement. 
  • Adding a hog-trough is a great way to hold your paint can in place while you’re painting. 
  • Don’t forget the stirring stick, so you can easily mix any paint that settles at the bottom of the can. 
  • Alway use a paint tray to keep paint from getting all over the floor. 
  • A sealed paint can opener is a must-have. 

Cleaning and Prepping the Walls

Before you start waterproofing your basement walls, you’ll want to clean the walls with a mild detergent to remove any dirt or grime. You’ll also want to tape off the ceiling and any trim. To do this, simply place the tape along the edges of the trim and the ceiling, and then paint over the tape with a paintbrush.  

Make sure to cover any outlets, light switches, and any other fixtures that are on the wall. Once you’ve finished cleaning and prepping the walls, you’re ready to apply a coat of primer. To do this, make sure that your brushes are clean, and then apply a light coat of primer to the walls. It’s important to make sure that you apply the primer to all walls. Note: You can either paint the primer directly onto the wall or use a brush to apply it onto a roller. 

Applying the Waterproof Paint

After you’ve finished applying the primer, you’re ready to apply the waterproof paint. Start by applying a heavy coat of basement waterproofing paint to the walls. Make sure to apply additional coats in different directions to ensure that you coat the entire wall. For maximum protection, we advise applying 3-4 heavy coats, allowing for ample drying and curing time in between coats.  

Caring for Your Newly Painted Basement

After you’ve finished applying the paint, you’ll want to make sure that you properly care for your basement walls. Be certain to keep your basement clean and tidy by sweeping and mopping regularly. If you follow these steps, you’ll be able to paint your basement quickly and easily. All it takes is a little elbow grease, and you’ll have a basement that you’ll be proud to show off. 

Need Even More Tips on DIY Home Improvement? 

We’re here to help you by providing tips for all of your home improvement DIY project needs. Take a look at a few related guides we’ve published to see what other projects we can help you get done faster. Read More Articles About Liquid Rubber. 

Liquid Rubber is the preferred solution for many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, with easy-to-apply products and video tutorials that help you get the best results. Browse our online catalog to see our products, and easily order all the supplies we've featured here for your own basement waterproofing project.