Parging Services and Skim Coating

in Portland OR and Vancouver WA areas

Have you been noticing deterioration or cracking in your house’s foundation or brickwork? Parging — sometimes called skim coating—might be the solution you need to restore and protect your masonry. With over 30 years of experience, Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters has become the go-to provider for parging services in Portland OR and Vancouver WA. We back every project with a 100% guarantee, so you can rest easy knowing your home is in expert hands.

What Is Parging a Foundation?

Parging (also sometimes spelled “pargeting”) is a specialized masonry technique that applies a coat of cement mixture to concrete or masonry surfaces. The goal is to create a smooth, attractive, and durable layer that seals walls and reinforces surfaces.

Parging a foundation enhances durability – and it also creates as a barrier against water infiltration, reducing moisture-related issues. Parging on walls smooths uneven textures, seals cracks, and improves the overall aesthetic of your home.

Benefits of Parging

• Protects your foundation from moisture damage.
• Seals walls and cracks and prevents further deterioration.
• Enhances curb appeal by giving your masonry a clean, uniform look.
• Adds an extra layer of insulation to help with energy efficiency.
• Provides a cost-effective solution for prolonging the life of your foundation and walls.

Before and After Parging

Before: basement wall of Portland OR house with deteriorating brick before parging by Masonry Masters

After: basement wall of Portland OR house after pargeting by Masonry Masters

When Does Your Foundation Need Parging?

If your foundation or walls are starting to show signs of wear, parging may be the answer. Here are common situations when parging is recommended:

• Cracking or spalling in foundation walls.
• Visible moisture penetration or damp spots.
• Uneven textures that make walls look unsightly.
• Repairs on older homes that need structural reinforcement.
• Prepping surfaces before applying additional masonry coatings.

Where Does Spalling and Deterioration Come From?

Spalling is when bricks or concrete begins to crumble and flake. It’s a common issue in older homes, as a result of years of trapped moisture freezing and thawing.

Masonry spalling is a particularly bad problem in the Portland area and much of the Pacific Northwest due to building materials used at the time. Many homes used concrete mixed onsite with unclean or inconsistent materials. Over time, this led to weakened structures prone to spalling and deterioration.

Can You DIY Parging?

While parging may seem like a straightforward weekend project, it’s not. From preparing the surface to selecting the right materials and ensuring an even application, every step of the skim coating process demands precision.

Without proper knowledge, DIY attempts often result in uneven finishes, poor adhesion, and wasted materials. Save yourself the hassle — trust the artistry and craftsmanship of professionals like us to deliver exceptional results that last.

How Long Does Foundation Parging Last?

Professionally applied parging can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. Proper surface preparation, high-quality materials, and expert application are key to maximizing longevity. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can help your parging walls and parging foundations remain effective and beautiful for decades.

Parging and Skim Coating Pros in the Portland Area

If you’ve noticed deterioration in your foundation or masonry, parging may be the solution your home needs. Many homes in the Portland area are prime candidates for parging due to age and climate-related wear.

At Masonry Waterproofing, and Drainage Masters, our attention to detail and decades of masonry expertise set us apart. With all of our projects backed by a written 100% guarantee, you can trust us to protect your home with craftsmanship that stands the test of time.

Call us today for a free estimate!