Foundation Sealant: Dos & Don’ts
A well-sealed foundation is crucial for the structural integrity and longevity of your home. Applying foundation sealant can protect your home from water damage, moisture infiltration, and other issues that can compromise your foundation.
But remember this: sealing your foundation on your own comes with a few hazards and may not even work.
This guide will walk you through the dos and don’ts of sealing your concrete foundation, helping you make informed decisions to maintain a strong and durable structure.
Dos for Applying Foundation Sealant
1. Consult a Professional Before Applying Any Kind of Sealant
Applying a sealant on your own runs the risk of exacerbating foundation issues. If you seal it while hydrostatic pressure is actively cracking your foundation or the soil is settling, a sealant will only give that pressure the perfect surface to push against.
Sealing under these circumstances may compromise your foundation further. A foundation expert can give you a free inspection and provide a personalized plan to stop your foundation from cracking.
2. Install Alongside a Comprehensive Waterproofing System
Foundation sealant won’t work effectively (and can even make your problems worse) if you fail to address moisture issues at the source. To support a foundation sealant, you should also install a comprehensive waterproofing system.
This includes structural solutions like wall anchors and waterproofing systems like a vapor barrier. If you only use a sealant, the moisture can actually eat away at it and allow foundation issues to continue.
3. Use a Primer Before Applying Foundation Sealers
Before applying foundation sealers, always use a primer to ensure strong adhesion and long-lasting protection. A primer helps the sealer bond effectively, especially in high-moisture or harsh environments, on bare concrete, masonry, or painted surfaces.
Start by cleaning the surface thoroughly and removing any existing coatings or paint. Lightly sand for better primer adhesion. Choose a primer compatible with both the surface and the sealer, and apply it evenly. Let it dry completely—usually 2-4 hours—before sealing.
Use a bonding primer for better adherence on smooth, glossy, or heavily painted surfaces. This step ensures that your sealer provides durable, effective protection.
4. Select a Sealant That Resists Abrasion, Chemical Damage, and UV Light
Your foundation sealant should be durable and long-lasting, able to withstand wear and tear from the elements. Look for a sealant that resists abrasion, chemical attack, and UV light to ensure your foundation remains protected for years.
5. Invest in High-Quality Sealants From Reputable Manufacturers
Not all foundation sealants are created equal. Ensure that you are using the best possible product by choosing a sealant from a reputable manufacturer with a proven track record of delivering high-quality, effective products. Some popular manufacturers include:
Still, if you do decide to use one of these sealants, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The biggest one is that DIY sealants are usually just a surface fix.
They aren’t effective at solving the actual causes behind foundation damage. In the next section, we’ll look at the biggest don’ts for foundation sealants so you can see the limits of using one.
Don’ts for Applying Foundation Sealant
1. Don’t Let Moisture or Contaminants Enter While the Sealant is Drying
When your foundation sealant is drying, it is essential to keep it free from moisture and other contaminants. These substances can weaken the concrete and reduce the effectiveness of the sealant.
2. Don’t Ignore Cracks or Gaps in the Foundation Before Applying the Sealant
Before applying any foundation sealant, inspect your foundation for cracks, gaps, or other imperfections. Address these issues with a professional foundation repair company who can provide effective options (like foundation piers). Only after cracks are addressed should you start applying sealant.
3. Don’t Put Off Foundation Inspections
Make sure to regularly inspect your foundation for signs of wear, even after applying sealant. While high-quality sealants are designed to last for years, they can still degrade over time or become damaged as the foundation shifts. It’s essential to monitor your foundation’s condition with professional help.
4. Don’t Compromise on Quality Materials When Sealing Your Foundation
Investing in high-quality materials for sealing your foundation is essential for its long-term stability and protection. Cutting corners on the quality of the sealant can lead to more significant problems down the line, so prioritize the best materials for your foundation.
Keep Your Foundation Safe With Groundworks
Using foundation crack sealer without knowing the risks can cause a lot of problems, so be prepared. The best first step is always to consult foundation experts, like Groundworks, to inspect your foundation and determine if the sealant is even worth it.
If you’re ready to protect and maintain your home’s foundation, our expert team is ready to help. Contact us today for a free foundation inspection and ensure your home remains strong and secure for years to come.
Foundation Sealant FAQs
The frequency of reapplying foundation sealant depends on several factors, including the type of sealant used, the climate, and the exposure of your foundation to harsh elements. Generally, high-quality sealants can last between 5 and 10 years. However, it’s essential to inspect your foundation regularly to identify any signs of wear or damage that may indicate the need for reapplication. If you notice issues or are uncertain about the condition of your sealant, consult a professional to determine the best course of action.
Applying foundation sealant offers numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced protection from water damage: A well-sealed foundation is less susceptible to water infiltration, helping prevent damage from basement leaks, flooding, or groundwater.
- Increased durability: Foundation sealant reinforces the concrete, making it more resistant to wear and tear from the elements.
- Reduced risk of mold and mildew: By preventing moisture infiltration, foundation sealant helps reduce the likelihood of mold and mildew growth in your home.
- Improved energy efficiency: A sealed foundation can reduce drafts and improve insulation, leading to lower energy consumption and costs by fending off the stack effect.
The primary risks associated with applying foundation sealant arise from issues like:
- Improper application
- Using low-quality materials
- Using sealant without addressing the root causes of cracks.
Inadequate sealing can lead to moisture infiltration, causing water damage, mold growth, and other issues. Additionally, low-quality sealants may not provide the necessary protection and durability, resulting in the need for more frequent reapplication. To mitigate these risks, it’s essential to follow best practices when sealing your foundation and invest in high-quality sealants from reputable manufacturers. Always consult a professional basement and foundation waterproofing specialist before using concrete foundation sealer.
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