Water damage is one of the most irreversible damages that can render a building uninhabitable. Not only does the liquid expand and corrode everything, but it also encourages the growth of mould and corrosive fungi that can eat away at the foundations of a building. Sometimes water damage may not show itself until it is too late, a silent killer. But, as with most problems, it is preventable. Every part of a building can be protected from water damage by waterproofing services offered by many contractors. Using the most efficient methods, the right contractor or brand can effectively waterproof a building from the base up.
Waterproofing, ideally, should be done during construction itself for maximum effect. Though, people can also get their buildings waterproofed afterwards. But waterproofing costs much less during construction than later, as it will be a long process; if waterproofing is done during construction itself, it amounts to only one per cent of the entire cost. But the damages caused by water, later on, can easily total to a repair cost of 90% of construction costs. This increase is because water can damage materials very quickly, and repairing that damage is sometimes impossible.
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WHERE TO WATERPROOF?
Any area that will or is likely to come in contact with water should be waterproofed. Waterproofing prevents any ingress from water or vapour, creating a shield coating or layer on materials. For example, waterproofing floorboards help ensure no water damage even if the basement gets flooded.
For effectively waterproofing a building, the following areas must be waterproofed,
- Wooden Floors (and any wooden wall mounts)
- The Basement
- The Toilet, Bathroom and Kitchen (and the other regions with plumbing)
- Balconies and Terraces (Where water can come in direct contact)
- The Roof (Prevent stagnation of rain or snow)
- Swimming Pool (and areas around it)
- Water Tank (Prevent and erosion of walls)
HOW TO WATERPROOF?
A company providing waterproofing services can explain the different types of services and waterproofing they offer and which type will suit the situation. Each area uses specific building materials, and water reacts differently to each of them. For example, water can cause iron to rust, but for wood to expand and turn into mulch. Therefore, each area requires a particular type of waterproofing. The most common types are,
Bituminous Waterproofing
Bitumen is a mixture of many substances, all of which are dense, sticky and undoubtedly waterproof. This coating is also used on roads and highways. This type of waterproofing is mostly seen on concrete walls and roofs. A subtype of bitumen waterproofing is bitumen membrane waterproofing, usually seen on sloped roofs. They have consistently proved useful in guarding against rain and sleet. This type of waterproofing is ideal for both residential and commercial buildings.
Polyurethane Waterproofing
This type of waterproofing is available as a coating that contains a mixture of polyol and isocyanate in precise proportions. These two combine into an easy application liquid, which one can use after construction as well. This coating is also UV resistant and invisible.
Liquid Membrane Waterproofing
This type of waterproofing is the go-to during refurbishing. It is cost-effective and requires minimum installation effort. A liquid coating is made of a combination of materials, which, when dried, create an elastic rubber-type layer. People can apply this coating to any roof, and it usually requires reinforcement of some type. Waterproofing services companies typically use plastic or glass to reinforce this coating to add elasticity. The membrane is also removable and returns to its original shape when not stretched. Membrane waterproofing is also durable, providing more than 25 years of protection against water.