How To Use Watertite to Waterproof Your Basement
Give your damp and musty basement walls a waterproof refresh with help from the WaterTite system of products!
Step 1: Clean and etch
Clean and remove all caked-on salt efflorescence from the concrete and lightly etch the surface to ensure paint will properly adhere and create a waterproof coating.
•Mix 6 ounces of WaterTite Etch & Cleaner with 1/2 gallon of warm water in a bucket and stir thoroughly until completely dissolved
•Wearing gloves, apply the solution over the entire surface with a sponge, then scrub with a wire brush to remove dirt and any white salt efflorescence
•Allow to remain on surface for 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water and a fresh sponge
Step 2: Fill cracks and holes
Permanently fill deep cracks and holes on interior and exterior concrete to create a watertight seal in only 5 minutes.
•In a clean bucket, mix two parts Hydraulic Cement with one part water (Note: the mixture will begin to set in 3-5 minutes, so only mix as much material as you can use at one time)
•Stir until the consistency is a putty-like paste
•Wearing protective gloves, hold mixture in hands to warm it up, then force it firmly into the cracks and holes
•Secure in place for 5 minutes while setting, and immediately scrape away any excess with a putty knife to create a smooth finish
Note: Use WaterTite Polyurethane Sealant to fill and seal any dynamic moving joints and gaps such as expansion and control joints.
Step 3: Mould & Mildew-Proof Waterproofing Paint
Create an impermeable barrier to water on interior and exterior walls with WaterTite LX waterproofing paint designed to stop moisture from entering concrete basements and cellars.
•Working in 4’ sections, roll a generous first coat on the walls and immediately back brush to work the paint into any pin holes and divots
•Allow the first coat to dry a minimum of 2 hours before applying the second coat
•Inspect the surface carefully to see if there are any remaining pin holes, and brush paint over those areas as necessary. It is very important to fill all small holes to create a continuous, impermeable barrier to water
•Apply a third coat if required, and allow to thoroughly dry
•Clean all brushes and rollers with soap and water, and an additional topcoat of Perma-White Mould & Mildew-Proof paint can be applied if desired