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How Do I Choose the Best Waterproofing Materials?

By Lori Kilchermann
Updated May 17, 2024
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You will be able to choose the best waterproofing materials for your own individual needs by understanding what type of materials you wish to waterproof. Wood, concrete and brick all require different waterproofing materials to accomplish the task of making the items waterproof. You will be required to determine the amount of foot traffic, if any, on the surface of the material you wish to waterproof in order to choose the proper waterproofing chemical. The type and method of applying the waterproofing materials is commonly dependent on the type of application you are performing. Initial applications routinely require several coats of some types of waterproofing, while annual applications can require partial, spot or complete reapplication of the product.

If you are applying the initial application of the waterproofing materials, you should seek a product that can be applied to several different types of materials. Wood, concrete and brick surfaces can all benefit from a waterproofing treatment. By choosing a product that will allow you to use the same waterproofing materials on every surface of your home, you can typically save time and money on the application.

Length of coverage, time of application and the number of applications that are required to achieve the best protection should all be considered when choosing your waterproofing materials. You may also wish to find a material that will not harm or injure plants and animals. If you have children, you will commonly want to find the best waterproofing materials that are safe for children as well. Another feature of the type of waterproofing chemical you might decide on for an initial application is if it contains a stain.

Waterproofing materials that also contain a stain might be your best choice when covering a freshly constructed deck or other piece of woodwork. This might save you valuable time by covering the wood with a single product and receiving results two-fold. If, however, you are attempting to waterproof several surfaces, this will be of no benefit to you unless they will all be stained the same shade. Commonly, you will need to select waterproofing materials that go on easily with the fewest amount of coats, last the longest between recommended re-coats and clean up easily with soap and water. When you find a product that does all of this, is safe for use near children, pets and plants and fits into your budget, you have found the best materials for your needs.

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Discussion Comments

By anon314950 — On Jan 21, 2013

I have a fiberglass shower that was made years ago. The wall of the shower and the base has a crack letting water escape. What type of silicone is best for sealing this crack on fiberglass?

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