If your basement’s masonry walls have fallen into disrepair, don’t fret.
Repairing and repainting the surfaces can be done in just five steps.
Making over a basement wallcan require a little more work than a standard interior wall.
To do so, it’s important to know the most common types of water damage.
Then, follow our step-by-step guide for repairing and repainting a basement masonry wall.
Condensation, the mildest form of water problem, doesn’t originate on the outside.
Increasing the ventilation, insulating the pipes, or installing a dehumidifier will relieve condensation.
If neither of these methods work, consult a drainage specialist.
Once you’ve ensured that your basement is water-tight, it’s time to paint.
Remove efflorescence with muriatic acid, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Rinse the wall and let it dry.
Keyed cracks help keep the patching cement in place.
Vacuum the crack to remove the dust.
Then force a small amount of hydraulic cement into the crack with a trowel and smooth it down.
Also apply hydraulic cement where the wall meets the floor.
Work the paint thoroughly into the pores of the masonry, then back-roll the area.
Roll a second coat over the wall.
If you notice seepage after several days, tiny pores or pinholes are still open.
Apply an additional coat to these areas.
Be sure to open windows and use an exhaust fan to provide adequate ventilation.
Where good cross-ventilation is not possible, a latex product might be less noxious.
