Waterproofing your block foundation from the exterior is important in protecting your home’s structural integrity. Block foundations are especially vulnerable to water damage and susceptible to cracking, deterioration, and shifting due to moisture. Watering your block foundation properly ensures that it will last for years without any necessary repairs or replacements.
The advantages of waterproofing a block foundation from the exterior include protection from moisture, increased durability, and improved energy efficiency. When water is prevented from entering the house through the block walls, it helps to prevent wood rot, mold growth, and other structural damage. In this blog post, You will learn how to waterproof a block foundation from exterior.
Materials You Will Need
- A pressure washer with a minimum of 2,500 PSI
- Garden hose
- Caulking gun and caulk
- Paint roller and tray
- Paint primer for masonry surfaces
- Masonry paint or waterproofing compound
- Wire brush
- Drop cloths or tarp
- Concrete patch, if needed
- Putty knife or flat-edge trowel
- Sandpaper
- Bucket and sponge
Before you start your waterproofing project, ensure the block foundation is free of any debris or dirt that can interfere with the waterproofing process.
Step by Step Processes for How to Waterproof a Block Foundation From Exterior
Step 1: Inspect the Existing Foundation
Before starting, look at your block foundation and ensure it is in good condition. Look for any cracks or gaps that may be present and fix them up with concrete patching compound or masonry caulk before beginning the waterproofing process.
Step 2: Pressure Wash the Foundation
Once you’re satisfied that all cracks and gaps have been sealed, it’s time to pressure wash the foundation. This will clean up any debris or dirt that might be present and aid in the adhesion of the waterproofing products. Before starting the waterproofing process, install self-adhesive flashing around doors and windows.
Step 3: Apply an Elastomeric Liquid Coating
Once the flashing is in place, you can apply an elastomeric liquid coating to the foundation. This will help waterproof and seal the block from any moisture that might try to sneak through. After applying the elastomeric liquid coating, it’s time to install a waterproof membrane. This should be done around the entire foundation in overlapping strips, starting at the bottom and working your way up.
Step 4: Install Weep Holes
Once you’ve sealed the foundation with the waterproof membrane, it’s important to install weep holes at regular intervals along the wall. These are designed to allow any moisture that makes it through the waterproofing to escape from the foundation. To further protect your block foundation, install corner and edge flashing at all corners of the building and along any edges where water could enter.
Step 5: Re-Inspect Sealed Areas for Water Penetration
After completing all of the steps above, it’s important to inspect your work and look for any signs of water penetration. Once you have determined that your foundation is properly waterproofed, apply two coats of a high-quality exterior sealer to the block walls. This will help protect the waterproofing from UV Ray damage and other weather elements.
Step 6: Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
Once your block foundation is properly waterproofed, it’s important to perform regular maintenance checks to ensure that any new cracks or gaps haven’t formed along the foundation walls and that the sealer is still holding up. This will help you keep your block foundation in good condition for years.
Following these steps ensures that your block foundation is properly waterproofed and protected from outside elements. With regular maintenance checks, you can be sure that your block foundation will last for a long time.
Tips for How to Waterproof a Block Foundation From Exterior
- Wear safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a dust mask to protect yourself from hazardous materials or particles.
- Check the weather forecast before you waterproof the block foundation; if rain is expected, postpone your project until a day with clear skies is predicted.
- Use a concrete patching compound to fill in any cracks or holes in the exterior foundation walls if necessary.
- Clean the surface of the foundation thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or other materials that could interfere with waterproofing material adhesion.
- Apply a sealant to all seams and joints in the block foundation; use a brush-on coating for horizontal surfaces and a spray-on product for vertical surfaces.
- Allow the sealant to dry thoroughly before applying a waterproof membrane coating; use the manufacturer’s recommended instructions for best results.
- Check with local building codes and regulations to ensure your project complies with safety standards before watering a block foundation from the exterior.
By following these tips, you can ensure your waterproofing job is done correctly and safely. A professional contractor can also help with the waterproofing process if needed.
How Do You Prevent Water Seepage Through the Blocks of Your Foundations?
Waterproofing your foundation is a great way to protect it from water seepage and other damage caused by the elements. When done correctly, it can greatly extend the life of your home’s foundation. The most common way to waterproof a block foundation from the exterior is to use a waterproofing membrane, such as an asphalt-based waterproofer or concrete sealer. These products are applied to the exterior of your foundation, creating a barrier between the foundation and the water that is coming into contact with it.
The membrane should be applied in two coats, overlapping each layer by at least 6 inches. It’s also important to properly seal all edges, seams, and joints with either elastomeric caulking or tape. To ensure the best protection from water seepage, you should also use a drainage board and backfill to help direct water away from the foundation. This is especially important if your home is situated in an area that experiences heavy rain or other extreme weather.
How Often Do You Need to Inspect and Repair Any Worn or Damaged Waterproof Membranes?
It is important to inspect and repair any worn or damaged waterproof membranes on your block foundation from the exterior regularly. This should be done at least once yearly, but more frequently if you have experienced heavy rain or flooding. Additionally, it’s important to check the walls for cracks or other damage that may need to be repaired before applying a new waterproof membrane. If your block foundation is made from concrete, it should be inspected for signs of spalling or crumbling. Any damaged areas should be patched and sealed before applying a waterproof membrane.
It’s also important to check any existing membranes periodically for signs of deterioration, such as peeling, cracking, or bubbling. To ensure that the waterproof membrane provides maximum protection against water damage, you should also regularly clean the walls and foundation. This can be done with a pressure washing system or scrub brush. When cleaning is complete, inspect the walls for any signs of wear or damage that may require repair before applying a new waterproof membrane.
What Type of Maintenance Should You Undertake to Ensure the Waterproofing Materials Remain Effective?
Regular maintenance should be undertaken to ensure that your block foundation is adequately waterproofed. This includes periodic inspection of the exterior walls and windows or doors for signs of water intrusion. Caulking should be replaced if it shows signs of wear or cracking. Additionally, drains and downspouts should be cleaned regularly to prevent flooding from occurring near the foundation. It is also important to check the gutters for any blockages, as this can cause water to pool near the foundation.
Inspections should also be carried out for any visible damage or signs of wear on the waterproofing materials used. If any cracks or areas of wear are found, they should be patched and sealed as soon as possible. Any marks left by water or moisture should be cleaned and re-sealed. If there have been any changes to the landscaping around the foundation, such as new trees, shrubs, flower beds, etc., these should also be monitored regularly. These can cause soil erosion, leading to water infiltration into the block foundation walls.
Are There Any Special Considerations if You Want to Paint or Coat Your Block Foundation After Waterproofing It?
Yes. Painting or coating your block foundation after waterproofing it requires some additional steps. First, ensure the substrate is clean and dry before proceeding with waterproofing. Next, apply a primer to ensure good adhesion between the surface and any finish coatings you use. After waterproofing your block foundation, you will want to allow for sufficient cure time of the waterproofing material before applying any finish coatings.
Lastly, be sure to use paint or coating products specifically designed for exterior applications and can withstand exposure to water. Following these steps will help ensure your block foundation remains waterproofed and looking its best. In summary, if you choose to paint or coat your block foundation after waterproofing it from the exterior, make sure to follow all necessary steps, including cleaning and drying the substrate, applying a primer, allowing for sufficient cure time of the waterproofing material, and using finish coatings that are designed for exterior applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, waterproofing your block foundation from the exterior is important to protect your home from potential water damage. Several ways to waterproof a block foundation include applying a sealant, installing a drain system, and keeping external drainage clear. Taking the time to waterproof your block foundation properly will help ensure that it remains structurally sound and looks great for years. If you’re unsure how to waterproof your block foundation or have any questions, it’s best to consult with a professional. I hope reading this post has helped you learn how to waterproof a block foundation from exterior. Make sure the safety precautions are carried out in the order listed.
