Rust-Oleum Projects
Waterproof your basement
Browse Projects
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Estimated Time
1 Day
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Challenge Level
Easy
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Tools & Supplies:
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Bleach (if needed to remove mold & mildew)
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Wire brush, muriatic acid & baking soda (if needed to remove efflorescence)
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Fast-Setting Hydraulic Cement or Concrete Crack Filler (to repair surface breaks)
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Gloves & safety glasses (recommended)
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Stir Stick
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Paint roller (½” - ¾” nap roller cover)
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High quality nylon-polyester brush
Are damp walls keeping you out of your basement? SEAL-KRETE DampLock Masonry Waterproofing Paint seals out water and gives your basement new life.
Step 1 Prep & Prime:
Proper surface preparation is critical to the success of all SEAL-KRETE coatings.
SURFACE PREP: New concrete must have cured for a minimum of 30 days. The surface should be clean, sound and free of dirt, dust, oil, wax and grease. DampLock may be used on painted surfaces to improve water resistance; however, surface must be bare concrete for waterproofing.
Cleaning: Remove mold/mildew with a solution of 1 part bleach, 3 parts water. Rinse and let dry. Remove efflorescence with a wire brush and solution of 1 part muriatic acid, 9 parts water. Neutralize acid with a solution of baking soda and water (i.e., 1 lb. baking soda, 5 gallons of water). Rinse thoroughly: let dry. Repairs: Repair surface breaks around wall/floor joints and patch cracks with fast-setting hydraulic cement or concrete crack filler, using trowel to smooth patch to surrounding area.
Step 2 Apply Paint:
SEAL-KRETE DampLock comes as a tint base or premixed in white. It can be tinted to 10 additional colors. This product is ready to use; do not dilute. Stir thoroughly before (and occasionally during) use. DampLock may be applied to a damp surface; however, application to a dry surface provides best results. Apply first coat with a ½” to ¾” nap roller cover or high quality, nylon-polyester brush. Use a brush to work paint into the grout lines. Allow to dry 3 hours, then apply second coat. 2 coats are recommended for waterproofing and are required for any warranty claims.
note: If leak occurs after applying 2 coats, pin holes may be present. Paint these areas again, using a brush to work paint into the pores.
Dries in 2-3 hours, depending on temperature and humidity. Wait 24 hours before topcoating with latex/acrylic paint, if desired.