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My name is Tom Lopatosky. I'm the President of LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com) and I'm honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis. I love answering your questions! Please send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com or call 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!

DRYLOK
DRYLOK is a type of paint designed to keep water from coming through surfaces like walls and floors. It’s called a waterproofing paint because it creates a barrier that stops water from seeping in. People often use DRYLOK in basements, garages, or other places where they want to prevent water damage.

DRYLOK is not just regular paint. It’s made with special ingredients that give it the ability to seal surfaces and protect them from moisture. Unlike normal paint, which just sits on top of a surface, DRYLOK actually soaks into tiny holes and cracks in the wall or floor. This creates a seal that helps keep water out. DRYLOK is available in different colors, but white and gray are the most common. Some versions also come with extra features like mildew resistance, which is helpful in damp areas.

Water damage can cause a lot of problems. When water seeps into your walls or floors, it can lead to mold growth, which is harmful to your health. Mold can make the air in your home unhealthy to breathe and can cause allergies and asthma to get worse. Water damage can also weaken the structure of your home, leading to costly repairs. By using DRYLOK, you can protect your home from these problems.

Using DRYLOK is a fairly simple process, but it requires some preparation.

Here’s how you can do it:

Prepare the Surface: Before applying DRYLOK, make sure the surface is clean and dry. If there’s any dirt, dust, or loose paint, clean it off first. If there are any cracks or holes, fill them with a patching compound and let it dry. This will ensure that DRYLOK can properly bond with the surface.

Apply DRYLOK: Once the surface is ready, you can start applying DRYLOK. You can use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply it. For best results, start with a brush to get into any cracks or crevices, then use a roller to cover larger areas. Make sure to apply it evenly, and don’t forget to cover the edges and corners.

Apply a Second Coat: After the first coat has dried, usually in 2-3 hours, you should apply a second coat. This will ensure that the surface is completely sealed. The second coat should be applied in the opposite direction of the first coat (for example, if you applied the first coat vertically, apply the second coat horizontally). This helps to make sure that no spots are missed.

Let it Dry: Once you’ve applied the second coat, let the DRYLOK dry completely. This usually takes about 24 hours. During this time, make sure the area is well-ventilated so the paint can dry properly.

Check for Leaks: After DRYLOK has dried, check for any signs of leaks. If you find any damp spots, apply another coat of DRYLOK to those areas. It’s important to make sure the surface is fully sealed.

DRYLOK is most commonly used in basements and garages because these areas are often prone to water problems. However, it can also be used on other surfaces like concrete, brick, and masonry. Some people even use DRYLOK on the inside of planters or water fountains to keep them from leaking.

DRYLOK is a useful product for anyone looking to protect their home from water damage. By creating a waterproof barrier, it helps keep your home safe from mold, mildew, and structural damage. Whether you’re working on a basement, garage, or any other area that needs protection from moisture, DRYLOK is a reliable solution. With proper preparation and application, DRYLOK can help keep your home dry and safe for years to come.

 About Tom Lopatosky
Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the "Personable, Particular Professionals" – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI's Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both the PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly PROTalk Home Improvement Radio Show! Tom has also written a book ‘The Care And Maintenance Of A New England Home’ (available on Amazon or through Barnes & Noble), detailing what he believes every New England Homeowner should be acutely aware of while owning a home in the region.