Waterproofing Masonry walls - need help.....?

Question

I have leaky or porus masonry walls. I'm not sure if it's the brick or the mortar. Bricklayers say it is the brick. The brick people say it's the mortar. They leak at the top of the windows. I have used a professional waterproofing solution about 3 years ago. I am concerned that it has broken down, but will still repel the new sealer. Any suggestions besides setting it on fire?

Answer 1

Confused

Answer 2

ANY opening in a masonry wall needs to be properly flashed. Ask the mason if they did that right? I really doubt that it was done properly if you're having water problems 3 years later. With brick, you can't really waterPROOF but you can dampproof (which sheds water that penetrates through the masonry out of your wall cavity before it reaches your interior) and provide weep holes in the walls (usually 6-8in above grade at 24" vertically on center) Make sure your wall was constructed properly. Sounds like shatty masonry work to me. I hope this was a little helpful to you.

Mena
Architectural Building Technologist

Answer 3

The mortar and brick both allow moisture movement.

Why is this wall getting so wet? I think your answer should start with how is the water getting to the wall. From there you will find solutions that address the problem.

Answer 4

Consider using "touch up" cement to seal any noticeable cracks. Then, use the thick waterproofing (looks like really thick paint) to seal it further. Do not be afraid to glop it on, maybe doing two coats. If you decide to finish the wall further (sheetrock, etc.), then you need to be sure nothing is getting through.

Answer 5

Thompson's water-seal.
Use on brick, mortar, wood, this stuff soaks right into the material

Answer 6

Check out this link: http://www.amesresearch.com/howto_basement.htm

Answer 7

re seal

Answer 8

use terpentine.