How to Use DRYLOK
Drylok is a paintable coating that seals above-grade and below-grade masonry walls by filling in the tiny pores that allow water to seep into your home. It will work on either interior or exterior surfaces and is available in a latex-base, an oil-base or in powder form. Not only will Drylok work on masonry walls, it will also seal retaining walls, fish ponds and bird baths. It is available in four different colors: beige, blue, white, and gray. Drylok can be tinted to other light colors as well. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Aluminum foil Masking tape Stiff-bristled paint brush Paint roller and cover Drylok Fast Plug Putty Knife Wire brush Masonry chisel Hammer
Instructions
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1
Perform this simple test to see if you have a seepage or a condensation problem: Tape a 12-inch-by-12-inch piece of aluminum foil to the interior wall where you suspect the problem exists. Allow it to stay there undisturbed for a few days. If the wall side of the foil is wet, you have a seepage problem, and your home needs to be treated with Drylok. If the non-wall side is wet, you have a condensation problem. Both problems may happen at the same time. To treat a condensation problem, run a dehumidifier in the room.
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2
Clean the wall well with a wire brush. Be sure to remove any loose mortar, dirt and salt deposits. If salt deposits are not removed, and the wall is not thoroughly cleaned, Drylok will not stick. Surface preparation is key to successfully sealing the masonry.
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3
Patch holes and cracks with Drylok Fast Plug using a putty knife. Chisel an inverted "V" shape into the voids and fill with Fast Plug. Doing this will help the compound cure and stay in place.
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Stir Drylok well before applying the first coat. The paint brush you use to apply the first coat must be stiff so you can work Drylok into the pores of the masonry. If needed, cut the bristles off of a paint brush so they become stiffer. One gallon should cover 75 to 100 square feet. Allow for good air flow while Drylok dries.
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Apply a second coat of Drylok with either the same brush or a roller. Apply a thick coat to ensure a tight seal. Allow the second coat to dry.
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Tips & Warnings
Latex-based Drylok can be painted with a regular interior paint for decorative purposes after 24 hours. If you used oil-based Drylok, wait 30 days before painting over it with an interior latex.
References
Comments
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Does Drylock have any toxic effects from breathing the fumes for hours while applying? I had a large fan going, but do have some mild symptoms after working on the basement walls.
