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What to Know About Waterproofing Your Concrete Brick

6 February 2020

Alexa Brooks

Do you have a foundation wall made of concrete brick that has water leaking through it? Over the years, those bricks may start to deteriorate due to absorbing water and going through a cycle of freezing and thawing. This can cause the brick to start to crumble and break down as they get older. Thankfully, there is a way to waterproof your concrete bricks to prevent damage from happening. Here is what you need to know about protecting your concrete from water.

1. Signs That Waterproofing Is Necessary

In addition to having bricks that are crumbling, you may also notice signs of efflorescence on the brick itself. These are those white streaks that appear on the outside due to water damage. You may also have bricks that are cracked or a wall that is buckling. If the wall is painted, the pain may be peeling or flaking off due to the moisture that is trapped behind it. Of course, if water is coming through the wall, you'll notice a puddle of water on the ground beneath it. All of these are signs that you need a waterproofing solution. 

2. How to Prep the Concrete Wall

Start by using a drywall knife or etcher to remove the old paint that is on the wall. If there are signs of efflorescence, you can remove that by using an angle grinder that is attached to a power drill. When finished, wipe all of the dust off the wall so that the surface is clean. 

You'll also want to fill in cracks with hydraulic cement so that the wall is completely smooth. It helps to create a v-notch in the wall where there is a thin crack so that you can work the hydraulic cement into the crack. 

3. How to Waterproof the Concrete Wall

You can purchase a masonry waterproofing paint at your local home improvement store. It can be tinted any color that you want to change the look of the paint that is applied to the wall. You apply the waterproofing paint just as if you were painting an interior wall, using a brush to cut into the edges and a roller to go over the majority of the surface. The concrete will absorb the paint into the surface and help improve its waterproofing abilities.

Following these tips will not only help the concrete brick have some waterproofing properties but will improve the overall look of the wall as well. Contact concrete waterproofing services to learn more. 

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