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

If you are in the middle of a renovation or building your dream home, don't forget to pay extra attention to the basement. A wet basement could be a sign of even bigger problems, not just with leaks and flooding, but with the integrity of the foundation. Foundation repairs are costly, so keep your basement dry to protect the belongings stored there. A dry basement and sound foundation add to the value of your home and save you thousands on major repairs.

Small leaks can weaken the basement walls and cause future flooding, which can damage the structure of the home and be very expensive to clean up. In addition to needing repairs, leaky basements are breeding grounds for toxic mold and bacteria that can cause unpleasant odors and even be hazardous to your health. Your best defense against problems caused by basement leaks is to waterproof your basement with a sealant, such as water-based, non-toxic Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to apply waterproof paint for basements.

Step 1: Inspect the Home

To make sure that you are keeping water away from the basement, you have to look at more than just the basement. Water flows from the roof down to the ground, so you want to start with your gutters. Clear your gutters of debris regularly and keep them in good working order so they properly divert water from your roof away from your house. You can check this by running water from a garden hose into your gutter system on a clear, sunny day. You'll see exactly where the water flows. You can install gutter extensions on the downspout to make sure the water drains as far from the basement as possible.

You may also consider installing a weeping tile or French drain around the house to ensure that excess water that seeps into the ground is diverted away from your foundation. Finally, make sure to grade the soil that meets the house so that it slopes downward to ensure that water naturally flows away from the foundation.

Step 2: Prepare the Basement Wall

Before beginning the sealing process, you want to prepare the basement wall.

1. Repair holes

Very large cracks or broken bricks may be a sign that you need to replace a section of the basement wall. Repair any large holes with brick and mortar, spray foam, or caulk, depending on the size of the hole. Allow any repair material to thoroughly dry.

2. Clean the surface

Remove any loose dirt and debris. Clean with a power washer, and allow the surface to thoroughly dry before sealing.

3. Seal cracks and joints

Bridge any joints, cracks, or protrusions with the three-course method, which is one coat of Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant followed by one layer of Liquid Rubber Geo-textile Fabric and topped with another layer of sealant. Allow the final layer to completely dry before sealing the rest of the basement wall.

Step 3: How to Apply Waterproof Paint for Basements

Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant/Basement Coating is an optimal option for a foundation sealant because it is easy to apply and safe to use around kids and pets.

Once your basement is prepared, just apply the Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant/Basement Coating with a roller, brush, or sprayer, over any areas you have sealed with Liquid Rubber Geo-textile Fabric. For best results, the coating should be applied as thickly as possible. Apply two to three heavy coats with a brush or roller.

Apply a second coat when the first coat is dry to the touch or tacky but not wet. Generally, you can apply two heavy coats per day when you account for the drying time needed between coats. Add additional sealant to any areas where water may accumulate.

Apply sealant at a time of the day when you can avoid hot, direct sunlight. Do not apply if the temperature is below 10C/50F or if rain or dew is forecast within 24 to 48 hours after applying.

Buy Liquid Rubber Waterproof Foundation Sealant/Basement Coating Today

Keep your basement dry and flood-free with waterproof paint. If you are looking for the best waterproof paint for waterproofing your basement, look no further than Liquid Rubber Waterproof Foundation Sealant/Basement Coating. Save money by waterproofing your basement on your own without having to pay expensive contractors. Water-based Liquid Rubber Waterproof Foundation Sealant/Basement Coating is solvent-free, non-toxic, and has no fumes that would be harmful to pets and children. Find out how Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant can help stop leaks in your basement and protect your foundation and the value of your home.