This second bath in one of my rentals has been an eyesore. It has cement block walls that always look dingy. It’s in an otherwise decent basement that has a nice living area and extra room next to it.
I did a little research and came up with a product that might take care of the problem permanently … swimming pool paint! Actually, it’s not really paint. It’s a rubberized coating that applies like paint, and totally seals the walls.
It sounded like a great idea, and the guy at the pool store thought it would work well. It’s the consistency of paint and you apply it with a roller and a brush, just as you would paint. Fortunately, I only needed one gallon, because the stuff is costly … about $70/gallon.
Here’s a photo of the can: It’s called Smart Seal SR Pro 7.
Here’s the “after” picture: what a transformation, right? I’d definitely recommend this product. HOWEVER, this stuff is really toxic! I had to wear a mask — which I hate doing — to be able to tolerate being in the area long enough to get the job finished. And also, Smart Seal is an oil-base product, so I bought cheap a roller sleeve, pan and trim brush, and threw all of it away when I was finished.
Now the bath looks presentable, and I can charge appropriate (higher) rent!
I’m always looking for inexpensive updates I can do at my rentals … things that will make them more attractive to applicants without costing me an arm and a leg.
Inexpensive updates, attractive results, coupled with attentive landlording … a win/win for everyone!