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Comparing Kilz and Drylok: Waterproofing Basement Solutions

Kilz vs Drylok waterproofing are two excellent products for waterproofing basements around. They are both popular and with a thorough application, you can achieve a high-performance base coat using Drylok and Kilz.

The standard Drylok can withstand 10 lbs of thermostatic pressure, while the Extreme can withstand 15 lbs of hydrostatic pressure. However, Kilz has a five-star Amazon rating for up to 12 PSI water pressure.

Kilz is rated higher, but any product can handle strong water pressure, especially since Drylok was built for brick surfaces.

Kilz vs Drylok: Which Offers Better Performance?

Kilz vs Drylok waterproofing

According to the company’s website, Hydrocarbon pressure-test versions of the Drylok Original and Extreme are developed to resist pressure loads of up to 15 pounds per side. Kilz pressure monitor also is designed with a 12-point index.

Using Kilz over Drylok

Drylok allows latex or acrylic paints to be applied to its dry surface. Wait at least 24 hours before painting over fresh Drylok to allow the surface to cure. Paints without the Drylok hue benefit from using it as a primer or base coat.

Therefore, Kilz can enhance Drylok products. Solvent-based coatings on masonry latex aren’t always recommended because it’s unpleasant to paint or seal stains. Kilz can be used as a solvent-based coat or primer if stains persist after three Drylok coatings.

Therefore, any acrylic or latex paint will work over Drylok. Since Drylok waterproofer can be colored for a decorative finish, apply it first before Kilz or other paint like anti-mold primer.

Can You Use Drylok Over Kilz

Drylok loses its waterproofing ability when applied over painted floorings or walls containing latex or oil-based paint. You can apply it over latex or oil-based paint, but it will not prevent moisture from seeping in through the concrete wall or flooring. Therefore, it is not advisable to use Drylok over Kilz on masonry.

Applying Drylok over oil-based paint-infused or latex paints will compromise the effectiveness of the chemical. Water and moisture will continue to get through the concrete no matter what the Drylok does.

You may be asking if Drylok may be applied over old Drylok. This chemical should not be applied to painted or horizontal surfaces. Drylok Extreme can be applied on latex or oil-based Drylok masonry waterproofer-coated surfaces. In fact, Drywall

Extreme Latex Base is the next waterproof coating. Kilz vs. Drylok waterproofs exterior, interior, below or above grade masonry walls, retaining walls, basement walls, landscape walls, foundations, concrete blocks, cinder blocks, and even bare concrete swimming pools.

How To Prepare Walls for Drylok

Kilz vs Drylok waterproofing use Drylok paint after preparing the walls, by cleaning them with a wire brush, sealing cracks and holes, and removing salts. It is recommended that you paint the wall when the temperature is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, ideally during a rainy-free period when humidity levels are low.

Drylok Masonry Waterproofer Advantages

Compared to powder coating, Drylok is much easier to apply because it is smooth, creamy, and consistent. A one-step application saves considerable time. This product also eliminates the need to pre-wet the surface or stock up on the extra pails required when mixing by hand.

According to instructions, Drylok can endure water pressure for almost 10 years. These goods will operate well for years to come. Depending on surface porosity, Drylok masonry waterproofer covers 75-100 square feet per gallon.

Drylok Floor and Wall Masonry waterproofer can be used on floors, but Original and Extreme are not. This finish coat can be used before floor paint or latex-based adhesives and withstands foot traffic. Thus, not all Drylok waterproofers are floor-safe.

Does Drylok Cause Mold Grow

Kilz vs Drylok waterproofing

After removing the stains, Drylok de specially designed to prevent any further moisture from penetrating the surface and causing mold and mildew to thrive. Note that fungus thrives on anything with excess moisture and can easily spread all over. It’s important to stop its source as soon as discover the problem.

To effectively apply Drylok, make sure the area is clean and well prepared. Then apply two coats of the Drylok waterproofer and leave it to dry.

The Bottom Line

Overall, both Kilz and Drylok are excellent waterproofer solutions that you can consider. However, there are several actors that go into the application of both products.

Kilz, for instance, is said to be ideal for use over Drylok and can be a great addition to the final results. Drylok, on the other hand, tends to lose its waterproofing abilities when applied over other latex or acrylic paints.

Luckily, both products are available in a range of colors so you can easily find one that is suitable for your basement or workshop. If you would like a smoother finish, Drylok Extreme masonry waterproofer can be a great option.