Knowing how to seal a basement floor can do more than just make sure you keep the moisture out.
It’s also a necessary step to take if you plan to install a finished floor at some point in the future.
These simple steps will help you make sure the job gets done correctly the first time around.
Step #1: Clean the Floor
You’ll need to remove all dirt and debris from the basement floor to prepare it for the sealing process.
This includes all paints, glues, and oils as well.
Use a cleaner that is specifically designed for the materials that must be removed.
Then allow the basement floor to naturally dry if needed before proceeding to the next step.
Step #2: Vacuum the Surface
Take a vacuum cleaner to the basement floor to remove any dust and crumbling concrete that may still be lingering.
Pay close attention to the edges and corners of the floor in particular.
If there are any small cracks in the floor, you’ll want to run the vacuum over the area multiple times to ensure all debris has been removed.
Step #3: Place the First Coat of Sealant
Many basement floor sealants are epoxy-based, so you’ll want to have the floor be a cool surface so the sealant can adhere well.
Roll out the sealant in a thin first layer, making sure to cover the entire area of the floor.
If you need to do one side of the basement floor first and then the other side later because of what you have stored down there, that will also work.
Then add a second layer of sealant after the first layer has completely dried.
Step #4: Make Repairs
If there are any cracks that did not seal well with the sealant, then now is the time to have them repaired.
You have multiple options to create a water-resistant seal, from tar to epoxy to caulk.
Some may require you to place a third layer of sealant over the repair site.
Knowing how to seal a basement floor requires only a few tools and a couple of days to complete.
Get started on this process today so that your basement can stay dry all year long.
