Question
QUESTION: Hi Marc,
We need to bring in fill o regrade our yard.  If we plan to add in fill against our currently exposed foundation, should we coat the foundation in some sort of waterproofing first, and if so, what product should we use.  The part of the foundation that is now covered with dirt has a black coating on it.  Thanks for your help.

Lisa

ANSWER: If it is a concrete foundation, and it has a water-proofing already applied (the black tar-like coating), I'd say no need to add to it.

~M

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Marc,
Thanks for getting back to me.  If you can, please tell me what that tar-like coating is called.  Also, is it something we can put up ourselves or will it require the hand of a professional?  Thanks again.

Lisa

Answer
To cover a concrete foundation and make it water-proof/damp-proof, most builders use an asphalt-based mastic.  It isn抰 complicated to install, but it can be messy if you paint it on.  Some come in sheets with a plastic backing (like cellophane wrap) that you peal off after applying it to the concrete.

And to REMOVE it later is a big mess ?solvents & scraping ?yuck!  So put it down right the first time.

Here is one brush-on manufacturer抯 Specifications: http://www.alconvc.com/110.htm

OwnesCorning had a brochure of it抯 elaborate foundation protection products:
http://www.owenscorning.com/FoldForm/WeatherProtectR.pdf

All you抎 probably need (depending on the extent of your re-grading) is just the mastic portion.  I give you this additional information, because I don抰 know your specific situation.

Best building practice is for the waterproofing to extend up to 4 inches above the finish grade line.

If it is a small job, I found a brush-on product at Lowes, manufactured by Quickcrete.  Go to Lowes.com and look for item #102612.  

If you are going to waterproof more than a few feet of the foundation, then I抎 go to a contractor抯 building supply company.  Check for them in the Yellow Pages under Contractor抯 Supply.

Their helpful staff may have just the correct product you need, and help you plan it抯 installation.

Hope the info helped.
~M