Drylok: Good or bad for your wet basement?

Should You Use Drylok to Waterproof Your Basement?

Because you clicked on this article, chances are you already know what Drylok is. However, if you're new to the topic, Drylock is a waterproofing paint specifically designed for use on basement walls. It works by penetrating the pores of concrete or masonry to create a sealed surface that helps prevent moisture from entering your home, essentially acting as a shield against a wet basement. 

While it may sound like the perfect solution, Drylok isn't without its drawbacks. From the cost of application to its long-term durability—and most importantly, whether it addresses the real cause of water intrusion—there are several important factors to weigh before reaching for a paintbrush. At AK Water Works, we’re here to help you understand your options and recommend the most effective waterproofing solution for your home.

Basement Waterproofing Cost Factors

Drylok remains one of the top products in the interior basement waterproofing market, having built a solid reputation over the years. That said, quality comes at a cost. According to current pricing, the original Drylok formula covers a 10x10-foot area with two coats using just over 2 gallons. A 5-gallon bucket of Drylok Original costs around $165 at major retailers like Home Depot as of April 2025, equating to roughly $33 per 100 square feet.

If you're considering Drylok Extreme, which is designed for higher resistance to water pressure, the cost increases significantly. Expect to pay around $85 or more to cover the same area, making it closer to $850 or more to coat all four walls of an average 1,500 sq. ft. basement with 8-foot-high walls.

Keep in mind that this estimate only covers materials. If your walls require patching or prep work, or if you're unsure about the source of water, it's smart to call our expert team at AK Water Works for an estimate before starting a DIY project.

How Long Does Drylok Last?

Drylok isn’t a permanent solution. While the manufacturer offers a 7- to 15-year limited warranty, reapplication may be necessary eventually, especially in older homes or high-moisture environments, such as those found in Youngstown, Warren, and the surrounding areas of Northeastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.

If you’re looking for a long-term or permanent basement waterproofing solution, we recommend exploring other options. Our experienced team at AK Water Works can inspect your home and help you understand what will work best based on your basement’s unique conditions.

What’s Causing the Water Problem?

Here’s the key issue: Drylok treats the symptom, not the cause.

Drylok is an interior sealant, which means it deals with moisture after it’s already breached the foundation. While this may help in mild cases, it doesn’t stop water at its source. Common causes of basement leaks include:

• Poor or clogged exterior drainage systems

• Cracks in the foundation

• Inadequate grading or slope around your home

• Unsealed exterior walls or missing waterproof membranes

In these cases, Drylok becomes a temporary fix—a band-aid that hides the problem without solving it. At AK Water Works, our licensed waterproofing specialists will identify and address the true source of the leak, whether it’s inside, outside, or both.

The Smarter Way to Waterproof Your Basement

While Drylok may seem like an easy DIY win, it's not always the smartest long-term move. For many homeowners, the best first step is to skip the guesswork and hire a professional. Our expert waterproofing team has helped hundreds of homeowners throughout Boardman, Canfield, Poland, Niles, Girard, Cortland, Lordstown, Hermitage, Sharon, and nearby areas find the right solution the first time.

Whether it’s interior sealing or full-scale exterior waterproofing, we’ll guide you toward a cost-effective, permanent fix—and give you peace of mind every step of the way.

Need Help? Call AK Water Works

We’re a locally owned and operated waterproofing and plumbing company offering 24/7 emergency service and estimates throughout Northeastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.

Call us at 330-574-1507 or contact us online to schedule your inspection today!