Applying Waterproofing Paint
Applying waterproofing paint in a crawl space can be extremely difficult, but is it worth it? The waterproofing paint manufacturing industry makes a great product. In many cases, the problem is not the waterproofing paint but how it is applied. The waterproofing paint has been tested to withstand water intrusion through cinder block walls and concrete at a certain psi when it is applied correctly.
Waterproofing Paint PSI
The PSI (Pounds per Inch) of most waterproofing paints are between 20 and 35. What this means is that the paint will resist water pushing through it (if properly applied) at the rated pounds per square inch. Here are the stats of a well reviewed waterproofing paint I found on the Home Depot website.
XYZ Brand 1 gal. Mold and Mildew-Proof Waterproofing White Oil Based Paint (Case of 2) ultra-low-odor formula designed to waterproof interior and exterior concrete. Waterproofing paint is guaranteed to stop up to 34 PSI of water pressure and prevents the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film for 5 years – guaranteed.
- Use on interior and exterior concrete and masonry surfaces either above or below grade
- Limited Lifetime waterproof guarantee and unique 5-years mold and mildew-proof paint film guarantee
- Covers up to 100 sq. ft.
- Bright white, non-gritty finish applies easily to dry walls with brush or roller
- Prevents water seepage through cement, masonry and concrete block walls and basement floor slabs
- Not recommended for foot traffic
- Dries to the touch in 1 hour
- Clean up with mineral spirits
Waterproofing Paint Cost
Given the information above, the paint sells for $29 a gallon when purchased in a 5 gallon pale. So you invest $145 to cover 500 square feet for 1 coat and $290 for 2 coats and $435 for 3 coats which is most likely the appropriate amount to apply. Instead of apply paint, why not use a plastic vapor barrier over the block wall in the crawl space?
Here is a video to help explain more:
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11 thoughts on “Waterproofing Paint in Crawl Space”
I am curious what approach should be taken when working with a mud pad type concrete floor in crawlspace? I don’t know if a vapor barrier was installed bellow concrete or not? This is a non-vented crawl open to my basement via removed exterior windows. Crawlspace is underneath an addition.
Hi Jason, thanks for reaching out, here is a video we did about rat slabs, not sure if this helps but hopefully it will. https://youtu.be/oSR-lEvhZ7g
Hi Jason. I am dealing with the same type of crawlspace situation and I am wondering what you ended up doing with yours? I am also not sure if a vapor barrier was installed below the concrete, but I feel like moisture seeps through the concrete and wondering how to insulate it. I am considering either a plastic barrier or rubber paint, and unsure which is best. Thank you.
What should I use to seal the floor joist/wood in my crawlspace?
If the wood is 100% mold free and dry, we recommend X70 moisture barrier, mold prevention. Here is a link: https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/anabec-x70/ Thank you, hope that helps. Also here is a video about it: https://youtu.be/Mz30d8L83ZE
Hello and thank you for your time. We desperately need help with a moldy crawl space. We live in a rural area in Arkansas with no one to help. I’d love some advice. Thank you.
Keena Holt
Hi Keena, I am so sorry no one is in your area. Please contact our DIY Specialists and they can assist. https://diy.crawlspaceninja.com/contact-us/
I just moved to Tennessee from Cali. A crawl space is nothing I’ve ever had to deal with. Buying a brand new home that has a crawl space, actually pretty big, it has a normal door then slopes up to front of the house. It is covered with plastic (black). I want to use it for storage, can I cover with say plywood? Or do you have a cleaver idea? Thanks in advance.
Hi Kevin, welcome to Tennessee. We have done a couple videos about storing items in crawl spaces. Here is one “Tips for Storing Items on Crawl Space Vapor Barrier” and “11 Things Not To Store in Your Crawl Space” I hope they help.
Hello,
I live in florida. Does this product resist WDO’s?
X70 Is capable of resisting molds and fungi but not other wood destroying organisms like termites. I am not aware of a waterproof paint that resists termites.