Basement waterproofing with sealants is a process of applying one or more polyurethane-based, oil-based, latex, or silicate products to the walls and floors of your home or commercial structure. Although the top goal is to prevent moisture in the basement, there are other benefits of waterproofing. It is helpful to understand these additional benefits. Since there are plenty of how to basement waterproofing articles out there, it is also important to know what components will create a truly waterproof seal that will last a long time.
Benefits of Basement Waterproofing
When water seeps into the basement through cracks or small holes, it can wreak havoc in multiple ways. You may not see these tiny cracks, holes, or other issues until they spread and become problematic. They may be behind shelves or stacks of boxes in the basement. These are some benefits of having a waterproof seal:
- Prevent flash flooding that can cause damage beyond the basement’s floor.
- Reduce energy costs all year round.
- Prevent mold and mildew, which can create or worsen health problems.
- Increase the home’s value.
- Prevent problematic foundation cracks.
Another potential benefit is radon elimination. A good basement waterproofing sealant system that is appropriately applied can block radon gas, which is a deadly, odorless and colorless gas. It can seep into basements through cracks or holes. Radon comes from decaying uranium, which may be found deep in the soil around the foundation.
How to Choose a Basement Waterproofing System
Hiring professionals can be an expensive choice. Although they handle the preparation, application and cleaning for you, most of what you pay for includes their time and labor. Applying a basement waterproofing sealant is something that you can do without prior experience. There are plenty of tutorial videos that give you a better visual picture of how to apply sealing products with brushes, rollers or other devices. Once you feel that you will be comfortable using them, you can choose a basement waterproofing sealant product.
There are many home improvement stores that sell single buckets of waterproofing paint and sealers. While those may last for a while, it is better to purchase a combination product for optimal results. Some multi-product systems may last a lifetime. The key is to look for a product with a satisfaction guarantee. If a product does not offer this, it may lack one or more important features. It is best to buy products that are designed to work together from the same company. These are the three critical qualities to look for in a top-quality basement waterproofing sealant system.
The SANI-TRED® Solution
SANI-TRED® is a revolutionary three component waterproofer that is perfect for your basement. The SANI-TRED® System works together to adhere to your concrete, patch the concrete, fill joints, and completely seal your concrete permanently. No other basement waterproofer on the market can match SANI-TRED®. But how do you waterproof your concrete? By following the simple SANI-TRED® process, you’ll successfully, and permanently, waterproof your basement. So let’s go over this process.
What You’ll Need: PermaFlex™, LRB (Liquid Rubber Base), TAV (Thickening Activator), Magic trowel, paint roller
Step 1: Prepare
Start by preparing your concrete surface, making sure it’s clean, dry, and free of any previous applied products. Fully prepared concrete is clean and free of any foreign matter that will affect coating adhesion.
Step 2: Prime
Once concrete is clean and dry, apply 1 coat of PermaFlex™ to the surface (2 prime coats are required for concrete block surfaces). Cover the entire surface with this priming coat using a paint roller. Let the prime coat dry about 1-2 hours before proceeding.
Step 3: Patch
Once the Prime coat has dried, mix 2 parts LRB (Liquid Rubber Base) with 1 part TAV (Thickening Activator). Apply this mixture to any cracks, holes, joints, or other imperfections to patch and profile your concrete surface. This coat fills in any gaps and adheres to the previous layer of PermaFlex™. Use a 1″ diameter caulk bead of LRB/TAV mixture to patch wall joints. Most other cracks use a 3/4″ diameter caulk bead.
Step 4: Top Coat
Once the LRB/TAV mixture dries, apply a top coat of PermaFlex™ to completely and seamlessly seal your concrete.