If you’re experiencing wetness on interior masonry walls, it’s important to determine what’s causing it. Check for leaky gutters and downspouts, blocked drainage pipes, improper grading or ruts that direct water towards your foundation. These problems must be corrected to ensure successful waterproofing results.
STEP ONE:As with any painting or waterproofing project, proper surface preparation is the most important step. Thoroughly clean the surface with a wire brush to remove all loose and broken mortar, dirt, dust, old paint and efflorescence (salt-deposits). Old paint and salt deposits will prevent masonry waterproofing paint from adhering to the surface of the wall. Treat efflorescence by washing with a solution of DRYLOK® Etch or muriatic acid. Finally, rinse the treated area thoroughly and allow to dry. If the walls are not painted and efflorescence is not present, proceed to Step 2.
STEP TWO:Fill all holes and cracks with DRYLOK® Fast Plug®. Fast Plug® is a quick setting hydraulic cement that sets up in 3 to 5 minutes and stops leaks even where water is actively flowing. Back chisel out the area to be patched to the shape of an inverted “V”. This allows the patch to lock into the surface properly. Finally, wet down the area to be patched prior to applying DRYLOK Fast Plug. This will enable proper curing.
STEP THREE:The final step is to seal your masonry walls. DRYLOK® Masonry Sealer is a latex-based waterproofing paint that’s formulated for all interior, exterior, above or below grade masonry walls, cinder and concrete blocks, as well as stucco and brick. DRYLOK Masonry Sealer should be applied to clean, bare masonry. Two coats are required to assure warranted waterproofing. Allow the DRYLOK to dry according to the manufacturer’s directions between coats. The second coat can be applied by brush or masonry roller.
Be sure to consult with your local J.C. Licht in-store representative for additional advice on the products and proper techniques that will ensure a successful outcome to waterproofing any masonry surface.
