When it comes to fixing cracks and leaks in basement walls or anywhere else, hydraulic cement is second to none. Very popular among homeowners!
There are plenty of brands out there but Quikrete and DRYLOK® are most common. There are debates regarding which one works best as well.
So, I am here to talk about DRYLOK® vs. Quikrete hydraulic cement mentioning their key features and best usage cases. Bear with me for a while.
A Quick Comparison
| DRYLOK® | Quikrete |
| Fast-acting, less cure time. | Extended cure time. |
| Offers fine texture. | Offers rougher textures. |
| Expensive | Cheaper. |
| Won’t increase water pH level. | Will increase the pH level. |
| Less longevity. | More longevity. |
Last update on 2022-09-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Differences Between Quikrete And DRYLOK®
Both are extraordinary brands when it comes to hydraulic cement to fix cracks in walls, floors, or swimming pools.
They work almost the same way too. However, there are some differences you may want to be aware of. Here are some of these differentiating factors:
- Ease of Application
Waterproofing should be done right. Otherwise, your hydraulic cement may still look wet and water may still leak.
Not everyone is handy dealing with such stuff.
So, people prefer something they can do themselves easily. When it comes to the ease of hydraulic cement application, DRYLOK® is clearly the winner.
You can brush it or just roll it on like paint. Don’t worry if the wall is wet. It will still work!
When the water gets into the basement, it will expand and hold the water. On the other hand, some people even argue that Quikrete just slows down the moisture, so not a permanent solution.
For a quick fix, DRYLOK® Fast Plug® is the best. In fact, you would be better off with a good hydrophilic epoxy sealer than Quikrete.
Watch this video to learn how easy it is the application of DRYLOK® and this brand is so popular.
- Cure Time
DRYLOK® has many variations of their hydraulic cement. All of their variations require less cure time than Quikrete. Also, it sets in within just 3 to 5 minutes!
So, for fast results, DRYLOK® Fast Plug® is highly popular over Quikrete.
- Textures
Since Quickcrete is mixed with stones and gravel, it offers a rougher than DRYLOK®. By default, DRYLOK® offers a fine texture than Quikrete.
However, if still love DRYLOK® and want a rougher look, you can use several coats and throw some sand to the DRYLOK® as it dries.
- Cost
Quikrete Mortar mix is a lot cheaper than the DRYLOK®. If you have a tight budget and don’t mind the extended cure time, Quikrete will be a good choice for you.
- Longevity
Since Quikrete is mixed with stones and gravels, when applied right, it holds up longer than DRYLOK®.
But if you insist on using DRYLOK®, you can use a sealer like Pond Armor to increase its longevity.
- Water pH Level
If you are using such hydraulic cement for your swimming pool, this point may concern you.
Almost everyone has gone for the DRYLOK® because the Quickrete concrete may leach into the water and increase the water pH level.
Extra Tips
Some good comparative analysis, right?
No matter what brand you prefer, you should immediately wash your hands and tools whenever you are done with hydraulic cement.
Otherwise, your hands will get REALLY dry and cracked!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To fix any cracks or holes in your floor, masonry walls, or even swimming pool, you should remove all the loose parts and clean first. However, yes, you can put Drylok over hydraulic cement.
Of course, you can! You can paint over it just like any regular cement. You should give it at least 24 hours before any painting though.
Apart from fixing and patching leaks and cracks, you can paint over the DRYLOK® Fast Plug® right after 24 hours.
You should give 5 to 7 days of cure time as recommended by the manufacturer.
Yes, you can. Not just DRYLOK® Extreme Masonry Waterproofer, you can paint over the DRYLOK® Original Masonry Waterproofer, DRYLOK® Powdered Masonry Waterproofer, etc. Just make sure to give it at least 24 hours before you consider painting over it.
Closing Remarks
Let’s wrap up this debate on Quikrete vs. DRYLOK® hydraulic cement. But before I do so, let me finish up saying something…
It may seem I am preferring DRYLOK® hydraulic cement over Quikrete. It’s true I prefer that brand.
I like this brand for other reasons like should anything goes wrong with the background, it’s a simple repair with DRYLOK®
But I also recommend Quikrete for people with a tight budget.
The biggest issue with Quikrete is the longer cure time. You can cut that cure time by half if you try to change the water daily. And in my experience, Quikrete holds up longer than DRYLOK®.
So, if you are willing to do some extra works and it’s not a swimming pool you are fixing, go for the Quikrete!
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