Hydro cement tops the list of quick fixes for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who are dealing with wet walls or basements. As a quick-setting, waterproofing solution, hydraulic concrete is easily accessible, inexpensive, and widely available. But is it the best option for waterproofing over time?
You should know the pros and cons of using hydraulic cement to waterproof your basement. Below, we discuss the pros and cons of using hydraulic cement as a waterproofing material. This will help you make an informed choice about protecting your basement.
What Is Hydraulic Cement?
Hydraulic cement, also known as hydraulic grout or hydraulic mortar, is a product that hardens rapidly after being mixed with water. It forms an impermeable, rigid barrier that is perfect for plugging temporary water leaks. This is especially useful in masonry or concrete surfaces. As it expands a little as it dries, it can fill small gaps and even holes when under pressure.
This material is popular for emergency repair, especially in environments with high moisture levels where traditional patching materials will fail.
Hydraulic Concrete: Pros And Cons
1. Quick setting and fast results
Hydraulic cement’s rapid setting is a major benefit. Most products begin to harden after 3-5 minutes and fully cure in an hour. This makes it ideal for urgent repairs or sealing active leaks before a hurricane or flood.
2. Working on Wet Surfaces
Like many other patching materials, hydraulic cement does not need a surface to be completely dry. It reacts with moisture and is, therefore, suitable for damp surfaces or those that actively leak.
3. Easy Application
The application is simple for homeowners and DIYers. Mix the compound with water and apply it to the crack or hole. It’s not always necessary to hire an expert or use complicated tools.
4. Affordable Solution
It is available in most hardware stores and is inexpensive compared to some other waterproofing materials. This makes it a good option for homeowners with a tight budget.
Cons Of Using Hydraulic Cement
It is important to note that despite its advantages, hydraulic concrete is not the perfect or permanent solution. It can create problems if it is used incorrectly or in the wrong situations.
1. A Surface-Level Remedy
The hydraulic cement does not address the root cause of moisture intrusion; it plugs the visible hole. This problem may persist and even worsen in the background if there’s hydrostatic pressure beneath the surface, poor drainage, or soil movement.
2. Rigidity and Brittleness Over Time
Despite its rapid hardening, Hydraulic Cement is not flexible enough to allow structural movement for a long time. Seasonal changes can cause foundations to shift, and with time, the patch of rigid cement may crack and leak again.
3. Limited Longevity
Hydraulic cement can fail prematurely because it cannot adapt to changes in conditions or bond well with old, cracked concrete. It could mean that homeowners will have to apply it several times or choose a more thorough waterproofing option later.
If you want to learn more about hydraulic cement and its risks, especially regarding long-term seepages, please read our resource on understanding hydraulic concrete.
Where And When Does It Make Sense To Use It?
Hydraulic cement is helpful in certain situations. It’s great for sealing cracks or cold joints on surfaces and penetrations into pipes, and it is useful in stopping a leak as soon as possible.
Suppose your basement has recurring water issues, a musty smell, or water pooling. In that case, you will need a thorough solution, such as interior or outdoor drainage systems, sump pump installation, or membrane waterproofing.
Tips For DIYers
When using hydraulic cement, it’s essential to adhere to best practices.
- A V-shaped chisel shape is used to improve adhesion.
- Pre-wet the surface with water before applying.
- Only mix small quantities because the material hardens quickly.
- Use it only in conditions where the temperature is below freezing.
Family Handyman offers a DIY guide with valuable tips on properly using waterproofing material.
Conclusion
It is an excellent short-term fix for water infiltration into concrete or masonry. It’s quick, easy to apply, and great for stopping small leaks. However, like with any other building material, it’s important to understand its limitations.
It’s important to know what’s going on in the background of your wall or floor before you decide that this is your best waterproofing option. Consider consulting a professional and finding long-term fixes to deal with more than just the surface symptoms.
If you understand hydraulic concrete, you will be able to choose a solution that will keep your basement wet for many years.