Last weekend's nor'easter was more than my 75-year-old basement could stand. Water infiltrated through at least two of the original cinderblock foundation walls. Considering how much rain we had, the amount of seepage wasn't extreme (small rivulets flowing from a few places under the sheetrock) but it must be addressed. I think applying UGL Drylock to the block walls will be an adequate "fix". However, the interior surfaces of the block walls have been painted (at least 40 years ago from the looks of them) and Drylock must be applied to an uncoated block surface.

So, here's my question: Is there a good way for a do-it-yourselfer (me) to strip the paint off the block surface? I am aware that the paint may be lead-based and will leave the job to professionals if that turns out to be the case.

All suggestions appreciated.

Last weekend's nor'easter was more than my 75-year-old basement could stand. Water infiltrated through at least two of the original cinderblock foundation walls. Considering how much rain we had, the amount of seepage wasn't extreme (small rivulets flowing from a few places under the sheetrock) but it must be addressed. I think applying UGL Drylock to the block walls will be an adequate "fix". However, the interior surfaces of the block walls have been painted (at least 40 years ago from the looks of them) and Drylock must be applied to an uncoated block surface.

So, here's my question: Is there a good way for a do-it-yourselfer (me) to strip the paint off the block surface? I am aware that the paint may be lead-based and will leave the job to professionals if that turns out to be the case.

All suggestions appreciated.
Paint remover the gel kind, let it set and the paint will just melt off. Use on of those copper battery brushes for the groves or if you want to get messy hot water pressure wash, you can rent them, but either way the paint will come off. Use gloves and a mask.