Expert: Stephen Major (Owner--Major Design Group) - 5/7/2007

Question
Hello,

I'm located in Cincinnati, Ohio.  I recently had a walk-out basement installed on my house.  The lot was perfect for it and has created a nice area.  The one problem is that in making this change I have exposed a large portion of the foundation (10ft on either side of door) that is covered in waterproofing material as it was originally underground.  I am looking for a way to remove the tar OR a way to finish the wall to look nice (siding, etc).  

My house is a brick house so the brick is flush with the top of the foundation wall, but not seen from below as it is covered by a large deck.

Is there a way to remove this tar that you are aware of, it seems pretty impossible from the things I have tried?

If siding is the way to go, how should I manage the top of the siding (caulk, flashing, etc..)?

Thanks for any assistance with this!
Andrew Wackler

Answer
Andrew,

The tar is virtually impossible to remove.  It does, however, hold good-quality paint, and that is an inexpensive (last) alternative.

Another alternative is reinforced synthetic stucco.  Known by trade names such as "Dryvit", this acrylic & cement product is normally installed over rigid foam insulation (the system is used on most Taco Bell restaurants). It can be installed directly over your foundation by a willing and conscientious contractor.

If you use siding, either wood or vinyl, you will need to install pressure-treated furring strips on the foundation, for nailing.  Be sure to terminate any wood siding at least 8" from the ground or pavement.  If there is a deck above, you can flash the top by slipping an aluminum "Z" flashing behind the (assumed) ledger.  It will divert water onto the face of the siding.

Lastly, you can grind the tar off, at the same time scarifying the foundation surface and allowing a mortar "parge" coat to be applied.  Any good mason can handle this.

I hope these ideas help. Let me know if you have additional questions.  If you like, feel free to send along a few before and after photos to my e-mail info@majordesigngroup.com for possible web publication.

--Steve Major