Looking for a fun and practical family project that enhances your garden and keeps your feathered friends happy? Why not give your old birdbath a makeover? This DIY project is not only enjoyable but also a great way to ensure your birdbath remains in top shape for years to come. Here’s a step-by-step guide using DRYLOK products to weatherproof your birdbath and make it a standout feature in your garden.
Step 1: Prep and Clean the Birdbath
Start by giving your birdbath a thorough cleaning. Our birdbath was originally plain cast concrete and, let’s face it, pretty grimy. To get things started, we used a pressure washer to blast away the dirt and grime. Important Warning: If the pressure is set too high, the force of the water can actually blast the concrete apart, causing cracks or chips in your birdbath. To prevent this, start with a lower pressure setting and gradually increase it as needed. Always maintain a safe distance from the surface and test a small, inconspicuous area first.
Next, we applied DRYLOK® Powder Concrete and Masonry Etch and Cleaner (DRYLOK® Etch Powder Concrete and Masonry & Cleaner). This step is crucial as it roughs up the surface, similar to sanding it with 120-grit sandpaper. Not only does it clean the birdbath, but it also creates the perfect profile for the DRYLOK® Masonry Waterproofer to adhere properly.
Step 2: Prime the Surface
Once the birdbath is clean, you don’t have to wait for it to dry. Instead, apply a coat of DRYLOK® Wet Wall Bonding Primer ((NEW) DRYLOK® Wet Wall Bonding Primer) while the surface is still slightly damp. This primer helps the waterproofing layer stick better. However, keep in mind that DRYLOK® Wet Wall Bonding Primer needs to be sealed with a topcoat, such as DRYLOK® Waterproofer, because it contains a biocide that isn’t ideal as a standalone finish for birdbaths. If you let the birdbath dry naturally, the priming step can be eliminated.
Step 3: Apply the Waterproofing Coating
Now it’s time for the main event: applying the waterproofing layer. Use two coats of the premixed gray DRYLOK® Original Masonry Waterproofer (DRYLOK® Original Latex Masonry Waterproofer — Various Colors). It’s essential to note that DRYLOK® Extreme Masonry Waterproofer should not be used for this project because it contains a biocide that’s not suitable for birdbaths.
Step 4: Let it Dry and Enjoy
Once the waterproofing coats are applied, let them dry thoroughly (Note: wait to coat when no rain is expected for 24 hours wait 7 days before putting into use). After the drying process, place the birdbath in a spot where you can enjoy watching the wildlife visit. Not only does this project protect the birdbath from the elements, but it also keeps it looking fantastic for your feathered visitors.
This DIY weatherproofing project is a fantastic way to spend quality time with family while enhancing your garden and providing a beautiful, functional space for birds. Enjoy the sight of your newly revamped birdbath and the happy chirps of the birds that come to visit!
