This post was most recently updated on January 30th, 2023
How To Seal Basement Walls in 2023
Concrete Sealer Review continues to be a trusted source for concrete and brick paver sealer tips and advice from professionals since 1993. Here we have an updated tutorial on how to seal your basement walls to protect against moisture damage. Any questions? Feel free to leave us a comment with any pictures below.
Basement walls can collect moisture due to the humidity of being underground. Moisture can also seep through the walls from the outside. To keep your basement walls in good condition, it is a good idea to seal them. Basement walls can be sealed to help lock out moisture, which may lead to mold, mildew, and erosion problems. It is best to seek professional advice or do some research prior to attempting this project.
Knowing how to seal basement walls will serve you well, this information can be found online. Here are some basic guidelines to help you with sealing your basement walls. Be sure the walls have been cleaned and are free of dirt, dust, and other grime that may keep the sealer from penetrating. It is best to use water and concrete or brick cleaner depending on what your basement walls are made of. Be sure there is proper drainage on the basement floor. If you cannot use water use a concrete cleaner and wipe the walls down to remove any contaminants. Allow the basement walls to dry for a day or two.
Once the basement walls are clean and have dried you can start to apply a basement wall sealer. It is important to have proper ventilation so be sure to open windows and use fans to circulate the air. It is also a good idea to wear proper personal protection including a respirator. Apply the sealer to the basement walls using a brush, roller, or garden-type sprayer. Only apply the sealer to basement walls that are bare concrete or brick. Do not apply a sealer over painted surfaces because the sealer will not penetrate properly.
Coat the basement walls with the sealer as recommended by the manufacturer. Multiple coats may be necessary. Work in small areas from one end of the wall to the other before moving to the next one. Back brush or wipe away any excess runs or drips that do not penetrate the basement walls after 10 to 15 minutes. Properly sealing your basement walls will ensure the longevity and structural integrity of the home’s foundation.
As an article and comment contributor to the site, Scott has been around the pressure washing industry since attending college. In 1993 he started his first company called Oakland Pressure Wash specializing in exterior pressure washing, concrete sealing, and deck staining. That company evolved into OPW L.L.C. shortly thereafter concentrating more on exterior restoration. Scott and his restoration Michigan company have restored over 10,000 projects in the Metro Detroit area since the early years. He has become an authority in the restoration industry and has contributed to numerous restoration forums and informative sites.
All the products he suggests through this site are sold through online sites and in retail stores, allowing the consumer to choose their own means of purchase. Scott’s eCommerce sites do sell many top brands he endorses and if you appreciate any of the help he has offered then feel free to purchase from one of them.
