How to Parge a Crusty Foundation

May 27, 2024 / By alasyaconstruction

Parging is an excellent way to enhance the appearance of a foundation and protect it from the elements. Whether your foundation is starting to show its age or you just want a smoother, more finished look, parging is a practical DIY project. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of parging a crusty foundation.

Materials and Tools Needed

Before you start, gather the following materials and tools:

• Parging mix or mortar mix
• Water
• Large bucket or mixing container
• Trowel
• Masonry brush or stiff-bristle brush
• Wire brush
• Putty knife or scraper
• Safety goggles and gloves
• Drop cloths or plast
• Level

Safety Precautions

Safety first! When working with mortar and other construction materials, it’s essential to protect yourself:

• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from dust and debris.
• Use gloves to protect your hands from the harsh chemicals in the mortar.
• Consider wearing a dust mask to avoid inhaling fine particles.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

1. Clear the Area: Remove any loose dirt, debris, and old mortar from the foundation. Use a wire brush to scrub away any flaking or peeling material.
2. Clean the Foundation: Wash the foundation thoroughly using a masonry brush and water. This will help the new parging adhere better. Allow it to dry completely.
3. Repair Cracks and Holes: Fill any large cracks or holes with a suitable filler and let it dry. This will ensure a smooth and even parging application.

Step 2: Mix the Parging Material

1. Read the Instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the parging mix packaging.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bucket, mix the parging material with water. Use a trowel to mix until you achieve a thick, smooth consistency.
3. Test the Consistency: The mixture should be firm enough to stay on the trowel without dripping but soft enough to spread easily.

Step 3: Apply the Parging

1. First Coat: Using a trowel, apply the first coat of parging to the foundation. This coat should be about 1/4 inch thick. Work in small sections to ensure the mixture doesn’t dry out before you can smooth it.
2. Smooth the Surface: Smooth out the parging with your trowel. Aim for an even, consistent layer across the entire foundation.
3. Let It Dry: Allow the first coat to dry according to the mix manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 24 hours.

Step 4: Apply the Second Coat

1. Prepare for the Second Coat: Once the first coat is dry, dampen it slightly with water. This helps the second coat adhere better.
2. Apply the Second Coat: Apply a second coat of parging, again about 1/4 inch thick. This coat can be smoothed or textured, depending on your preference.
3. Final Smoothing: Smooth out the final coat with your trowel. For a textured finish, you can use a broom or brush to create a pattern.

Tips for a Professional Finish

• Work Quickly: Parging mix can dry out quickly, so work in manageable sections.
• Keep It Moist: In hot weather, lightly mist the parged surface with water to prevent it from drying too quickly and cracking.
• Clean Tools Immediately: Clean your tools right after use to prevent the mortar from hardening on them.

Conclusion

Parging a crusty foundation can greatly improve the look and longevity of your home’s exterior. With the right tools and careful preparation, this is a DIY project that most homeowners can tackle over a weekend. But Remember,  it’s always important to consult with the experts in the industry for a stress-free work and excellent results!