According to the manufacturer, UGL, Drylok should be used on bare masonry and concrete surfaces. They also add cement, stucco, and porous terra cotta to the list of ideal substrates for Drylok waterproofer.
But what if you have a stone foundation and you would like to waterproof it? Can you use Drylok? Well, that’s what we’re going to discuss in this article.
Can You Use Drylok on Stone Foundation?
Yes, you can use Drylok waterproofer on a stone foundation. Drylok waterproofer bonds well to stone.
And as long as the latter is clean and free of impurities, the Drylok waterproofer should adhere perfectly and prevent water seepage for years.
So, if you have a stone foundation within your home that you would like to waterproof, don’t hesitate to cover it with some Drylok.
Also, if you’re worried that stone isn’t listed as a suitable surface for Drylok. Please note that on their official YouTube channel, UGL has posted a project where Drylok is being used to waterproof a stone basement wall.
This is sufficient proof that stone is a suitable substrate for Drylok waterproofer.
How to Apply Drylok on Stone Foundation?
Having confirmed that Drylok can be used to waterproof stone foundations, allow me to take you through a step-by-step installation method.
Compatibility aside, the effectiveness of Drylok heavily depends on how well it has been applied. Therefore, it’s crucial to have an in-depth understanding of how to apply Drylok on a stone foundation.
Step 1: Gather Essential Items
You’ll need a couple of things to pull off this project. You’ll need some Drylok waterproofer. Make sure that you get enough product that will cover your surface area.
You’ll also need a brush, a hammer, a scraper, a vacuum cleaner for the dirt, and some protective equipment. A filler might also come in handy if the stone foundation is pretty old. I heavily recommend the Drylok Fast Plug.
Step 2: Prepare the Stone Foundation
Though often overlooked, preparation plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the Drylok application project. The first step during preparation is to remove damaged mortar between the stone foundation.
You’ll need a scraper and a hammer to do that. Then next, proceed to remove dirt and other impurities. A vacuum cleaner can suck away any dirt trapped under the crevices.
Step 3: Fill in the Crevices
If there are deep crevices on your stone foundation, these have to be filled. Failure to do so can lead to the presence of moisture-leaking spots. It’s impossible to get paint inside a crevice on a stone foundation.
Therefore, filling them in allows you to brush a uniform layer of the waterproofer over your stone foundation. This ensures there is no entry point for moisture or water.
There are many fillers in the market, but the Drylok Fast Plug Hydraulic Cement is an excellent option.
The reason I’m recommending it is because it is compatible with the Drylok waterproofer. And it also sets pretty fast while preventing water from seeping through the crevices.
Step 4: Start Brushing the Drylok Over the Stone Foundation
Shake the Drylok container so that the contents mix thoroughly. Open it up and using a brush size of your choice, start applying the Drylok to the stone foundation.
Apply thin layers of the waterproofer until you get sufficient coverage. Keep on painting while pushing the brush deeper into the crevices. Let it dry and that’s it. Your stone foundation will now be perfectly waterproofed.
Some people only lay one coat of Drylok waterproofer. But I prefer two coats. With two coats, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your stone foundation is adequately covered.
How Long Does Drylok Take to Dry on Stone Foundation?
In most scenarios, Drylok takes three to four hours to fully dry when applied to a stone foundation. However, environmental factors such as humidity and temperature can prolong the drying times.
But within 24 hours, the Drylok on your stone foundation should be fully cured and you can add a layer of latex paint over it.
It’s crucial to approach the drying time of Drylok on a stone foundation with caution. Do not expose the waterproofed stone foundation to traffic if the Drylok isn’t fully dried. That may affect the effectiveness of the waterproofer.
Tips for Applying Drylok to a Stone Foundation
Because this isn’t the typical substrate Drylok is usually applied to, you have to be extremely careful to avoid failure. I’ll be sharing with you below, a few tips on how to apply Drylok to a stone foundation;
• Perform a moisture test before application.
If there’s moisture constantly passing through the stone foundation, the Drylok can take longer to dry. If the results of the moisture test come out positive, you can apply a primer first and then the Drylok.
• Never apply Drylok before repairing damage to your stone foundation.
• It’s a good idea to ensure the area is well-ventilated.
That speeds up the drying time for Drylok on a stone foundation. If it’s possible, you can plan this project on a day when it’s hotter and less humid.
• Do not be tempted to apply thicker coats.
Thinner coats penetrate the stone foundation much more easily thus ensuring effectiveness. Also, thick coats of Drylok can lead to issues such as blistering later on.
• Know that a brush isn’t the only tool you can use to apply Drylok to a stone foundation.
Not many people know this but sprayers can also be used to apply waterproofers. And the best part is that sprayers are easier to use and can easily access hard-to-reach areas like the crevices on a stone foundation.
Benefits of Using Drylok on Stone Foundations
The main reason property owners use Drylok on stone foundations is to enjoy the waterproofing capabilities of this product. But that’s not the only benefit you can get.
Apart from creating a watertight barrier on your stone foundation, Drylok prevents the efflorescence of stone whereby minerals from stone rise to the surface.
It also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the stone foundation. Drylok is now available in various tints. Therefore, you can create a finish of your choice.
Other benefits of using Drylok on stone foundations are that its affordable, widely available, and very easy to apply. The fact that it’s in liquid form makes application relatively easy compare to other waterproofers.
How Long Does Drylok Last on a Stone Foundation?
As long as you follow the process, I’ve shared with you above and these tips, Drylok should last for years on your stone foundation. However, the lifespan of Drylok on a stone foundation depends on other factors.
For instance, the weather can determine how long Drylok will last. For homes that are subjected to harsh weather, the Drylok waterproofer won’t last very long.
Also, if the stone foundation is exposed to a lot of traffic, don’t expect it to last for decades. Other factors such as poor maintenance or structural movements within the stone foundation can also accelerate the wearing process of the Drylok.
To ensure Drylok lasts long on a stone foundation, I would advise you to inspect it frequently. Look for signs of wear and correct them asap.
Regular maintenance is the best method of ensuring the longevity of Drylok on your stone foundation.
What Other Waterproofers Can You Use on a Stone Foundation?
Drylok isn’t the only waterproofer out there. You’ll be surprised at how many alternatives you can find in the market.
Take RedGard for example, it’s equally as powerful as Drylok and it’s also a liquid waterproofer. There are other alternatives known as Aqua Proof, Rubberseal, Ames Block, and much more.