Waterproofing is the process of making a structure or object resistant to water and moisture. For businesses and homes, proper waterproofing is absolutely critical to prevent leaks, flooding, water damage, and mold growth. It is much easier to prevent water damage than it can be to correct it once it happens. Waterproofing plays an essential role in preventing such issues.
Waterproofing involves creating an impervious barrier across important surfaces, both inside and outside your home or business. It’s a relatively simple and affordable way to keep the structure safe from future damage and strengthen the foundation, which can reduce health hazards and keep energy costs down.
Waterproofing is used in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, water tanks, interior and exterior walls, decks, roofs, and balconies.
Waterproofing your home or business has numerous benefits, like keeping the structure safe and secure for years. More specifically, waterproofing can increase the durability of the structure, prevent health hazards, and improve energy efficiency.
Waterproofing helps to significantly increase the durability and stability of your home or business by protecting the underlaid reinforcement steel from water and moisture damage. This helps strengthen the foundation, providing improved structural integrity.
Proper waterproofing can help improve the air quality inside the structure. This happens when moisture is reduced, which then reduces the risk of respiratory issues and other health problems caused by mold or mildew growth. Damp, humid environments lead to harmful bacteria and fungi growth, which can exacerbate allergies and other respiratory issues.
You can also reduce energy costs with waterproofing. When properly applied, waterproofing prevents moisture from entering the structure, which reduces the burden on heating and cooling systems.
The type of waterproofing most appropriate for your home or business depends on various factors, like where it is being applied or the climate in which you live or work. There are a few common methods used today, including membranes, liquid coatings, drainage systems, and sealants.
Waterproof membranes are thin layers of material, like modified bitumen or PVC. They are applied to the exterior of a building to create a barrier. These membranes are durable, flexible, and can easily be applied to exterior surfaces like roofs, walls, and foundations.
Another waterproofing material is liquid coatings that form a protective surface layer when dried. This option also provides great flexibility and can be applied on both horizontal and vertical surfaces. Liquid coatings offer a seamless installation to make sure nothing was unprotected and can be used on concrete, metal, and wood.
For those who live in a more wet climate, or suffer temperamental seasons with large amounts of snow and rain like here in Colorado, drainage systems offer an extra level of protection against water damage. These systems help to manage any excess water by providing pathways for the water to travel away from the structure. This prevents water buildup that could cause major damage. This option is perfect for protecting the foundation of the building and improving overall durability.
Waterproof sealants are incredibly versatile, used to fill any gaps, cracks, or joints that could let in even the smallest amount of water. These sealants come in many forms, commonly silicone, polyurethane, and acrylic, to be applied both inside and outside your home or business. Sealants are perfect for small cracks or other gaps, and can even improve energy efficiency by protecting against water damage and drafts.
Combining these techniques - waterproofing the exterior, using high-quality sealants, and installing a proper drainage system - when possible can maximize protection.
Regardless of the type of waterproofing being used, it is crucial that it is properly installed and maintained to keep your home or building in the best shape possible. Before waterproofing can begin, all surfaces should be clean and free from debris. Then, when the waterproofing process begins, it must be applied smoothly and evenly.
The most common waterproofing failure is imperfections that allow moisture to bypass the barrier. Even tiny gaps, pinholes, cracks, or seams give water an entry point, which then expands as water penetrates further and undermines the entire waterproofing system.
Achieving a continuous, gap-free application is essential - but challenging. When applying waterproofing, inspection under lighting, with moisture meters, and flood testing can identify any vulnerabilities. Seamless application and integration with flashings, edges, and penetrations are needed for a successful water and moisture barrier.
Regular maintenance is equally vital to ensuring your home or business is safe and secure. Temperature changes, ground shifting, and weathering will eventually cause new cracks and/or damage to waterproofing measures. A professional should inspect the waterproofing system and conduct preventive maintenance every year to ensure water is being kept out of your home. Several times a year is better for those of us who deal with large amounts of snow and rain!
The bottom line is that small flaws and defects often lead to complete waterproofing failures, and extremely costly repairs. Eliminating any gaps or interruptions in the waterproofing barrier should be a top priority of business and home owners alike. Hiring a reputable, trustworthy, and experienced waterproofing professional is highly recommended to get this vital job done right. With durable, flawless waterproofing, your home or business can stay safe and dry for years to come.
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