How to Waterproof a Basement Wall
Waterproofing your basement walls can prevent moisture and dampness from seeping in. When you touch the wall it should never feel moist or clammy. Waterproofing the basement walls can also be helpful if you wish to furnish the room in the future.
Supplies:
- Waterproofing sealant
- Dishwashing liquid
- Spray bottle
- Scrub brush
- Stiff paint brush
- Paint roller
- Clean and remove any debris from the wall. Dust can cause unevenness in the sealant coat. Use dishwashing liquid and a hard sponge and scrub the wall down. Rinse the walls thoroughly to remove any soapy residue. Allow them to dry for at least 24 hours. The sealant applies better with a thoroughly dry wall.
- Follow the instructions on the manufacturer’s label and mix the waterproofing sealant. The sealant is ready to use once it is thoroughly mixed.
- Apply the sealant with a paint roller or stiff brush. Be sure to make even coats when painting.
- Using a spray bottle filled with water or water hose, wet the basement's wall to keep the base coat moist. The cement walls should not dry too quickly before the second coat is applied.
- Apply another coat for a tight seal and protection. If you wish to paint over the waterproof sealant on your basement walls, read the instructions from the manufacturer's label to see how long you have to wait. Sometimes you may have to wait a day or two after the water sealant has been applied to paint over it.