Waterproofing is a fairly vague term which is why it can be confusing when searching for a waterproofing sealer. There are water repellent sealers which repel water and other liquids (great for sealing driveways and pavers), and there are basement waterproofing sealers which are used to reduce water and moisture intrusion through basement walls and floors.
If you are looking for a water repellent sealer that prevent deterioration by reducing water absorption on the surface, you want a Silane Siloxane Water Repellent Sealer. If you are looking for a basement waterproofing sealer, there are a few things to consider first:
- The best way to stop water from entering into a basement is at the source (the exterior). Tar and rubber membranes are used to stop water from being able to enter into the concrete. If you are able to seal the exterior, that is the best place to start.
- Water enters in through cracks, gaps, openings, and pores. Make sure where the wall meets the wall, and where the wall meets the floor, you run a bead of a silicone based concrete repair material if there are signs of leaking or water. Do the same for any gaps or openings around windows and doors. Repair wall cracks.
- There is no such thing as a “waterproofing sealer.” You can’t stop high amounts of water from entering in through a basement floor or wall. You can reduce the movement of water through the pores with a silicate based sealer, but as a breathable stealer, water will never be stopped. Sealers and epoxies can be used to bring moisture down to 1-3 LBS, but there isn’t a product that can be applied to the inside and stop water coming in heavily through pores, grout lines, or cinderblock.
Learn more about sealing your basement with these helpful links:
