Waterproofing & Sealing
Stop the water cycle before it causes the next round of damage.
About This Service
Waterproofing & Sealing in Chicagoland
Waterproofing masonry is the last step after tuckpointing and brick repair — not a substitute for them. A sealer applied over failing mortar or damaged brick traps moisture inside the wall and accelerates deterioration. Applied correctly after the masonry is restored, it extends the life of the repair significantly.
We use professional-grade penetrating sealers that allow the masonry to breathe (vapor transmission out) while blocking liquid water infiltration from the outside. We also handle efflorescence removal — the white mineral staining that indicates an active water pathway — and identify the source before treating the surface.
What's Included
- Masonry penetrating sealer application
- Efflorescence removal and treatment
- Post-tuckpointing waterproofing
- Parapet and coping waterproofing
- Water infiltration assessment
- Residential and commercial sealing
Our Work
Project Photos
Post-tuckpointing waterproofing application
Efflorescence removal and sealing
Commercial masonry waterproofing
Residential masonry sealing complete
Warning Signs
Signs You Need Waterproofing & Sealing
Efflorescence (White Staining)
White mineral deposits on brick faces indicate water is moving through the masonry and carrying dissolved salts to the surface. Treatment removes the staining and sealing prevents recurrence — but the source of the water movement must be addressed first.
Wet Brick After Rain
Brick that stays visibly wet for more than a few hours after rain is absorbing more water than it should. A penetrating sealer reduces absorption and speeds surface drying.
Recurring Water Stains
If water stains keep reappearing in the same location after cleaning, there's an active water pathway feeding them. Waterproofing addresses the pathway, not just the stain.
Post-Repair Protection
After tuckpointing or brick repair, applying a penetrating sealer protects the fresh mortar and new brick from the first season of weather exposure — extending the repair life significantly.
FAQ
Common Questions
Does waterproofing replace tuckpointing?
No. Applying sealer over failing mortar joints traps moisture in the wall and causes more damage. Waterproofing is the final step after tuckpointing and brick repairs are complete — not a shortcut around them.
What kind of sealer do you use?
We use penetrating sealers that absorb into the masonry rather than coating the surface. These allow vapor to escape (so moisture trapped inside can dry out) while blocking liquid water from entering. Silane-siloxane based products are the industry standard for brick and mortar.
How long does masonry sealer last?
Properly applied penetrating sealers last 5–10 years on most masonry surfaces before reapplication is needed. South and west-facing elevations that get more sun and weather exposure may need it sooner.
Can you remove efflorescence without damaging the brick?
Yes. We use appropriate dilution rates and application methods for the specific brick type — harsh acid cleaners on soft or historic brick can cause permanent surface damage. We assess the brick first.
More Services
Other Masonry Services We Offer
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