How Do You Waterproof Interior Basement Walls?
Plugging cracks and sealing concrete or masonry walls can eliminate condensation, leaks and seepage. For the sealer select a waterproof compound formulated for use on basement walls. Scrub the walls: Thoroughly scrub the interior walls with detergent solution. Remove grease, grime, and dirt. Rinse thoroughly in order to remove all dirt and debris so the sealer will adhere to the basement walls. Eliminate efflorescence: If salts and minerals have come to the surface they also must be removed. Mix a solution of 10% muriatic acid to each 12 ounces of water used. Scrub the walls with the solution and a wire brush and rinse completely. Gloves, goggles and a long sleeve shirt must be worn. Read and follow the directions on the solution to the letter in order to avoid possible injury. Prepare cracks: Widen minor cracks slightly with a chisel so that the sealer can spread inside the crack and seal it. Try to undercut the cracks by widening them on the crack interior. Make sure you wear safety
