Understanding What is Waterproofing and the Techniques behind it

Waterproofing is the process of making any object water-resistant so that it can be completely unaffected by any water damage. It is a process undertaken in wet environments. Applying the latest waterproofing techniques often prevents dampness and moisture formation through any object, property, or furniture. In various cases, after any water damage, it is inevitable for water to not only accumulate everywhere, but also to cause extensive damage as seepage of water occurs. However, if an object is waterproofed, it is usually safeguarded against any kind of water damage.

Waterproofing technologies have always been an essential part of human development. Various infrastructures built around the world are waterproof so that they can remain undamaged during repetitive rainfalls. Most new home builders and construction companies often remark that buildings are not built with proper waterproofing technologies, and this is left to the individual homeowner to do post-construction.

Buildings in most flood-prone areas, and also in areas that may not experience frequent floods, should be built with proper waterproofing. It involves the use of liquid waterproofing membrane, cementitious materials, polyurethane membrane of liquid, and particular other bituminous material. These are the commonly used materials for waterproofing buildings. It is widely used for waterproofing in certain areas of the house, such as basements, outer walls, bathrooms, balconies, roofs, kitchens, etc.

Waterproofing Techniques: Then and now

At an early stage in history, simple waterproofing strategies were used. Although adequate, they stand mostly outdated now. As structures started being made from various materials apart from stone, proper waterproofing became an absolute necessity.

Urban areas, specifically, in general, have multi-layered structures to accommodate a larger number of individuals. Additionally, buildings are also built very tall. To help cut costs, builders develop new materials and new methods in construction which often require proper waterproofing. Waterproofing organizations all over the world are constantly revising their strategies and procedures to provide an updated waterproofing system to the evolving changes in construction methods. This applies to both interior waterproofing and exterior waterproofing.

The Various Waterproofing Techniques and Methodologies Are:

Liquid waterproofing membrane

The liquid waterproofing membrane contains two kinds of coats- the primer coat and two topcoats. The application is made by sprayer or roller. The liquid layer is often thin, and it is more flexible than the cementitious waterproofing. The liquid changes into a rubbery coating on the wall, and it can extend the durability of the surface. The durability also depends on what type of material is used for liquid waterproofing by the manufacturer. Liquid waterproofing can be sprayed or can be made available from various manufacturers in any other way.

Bituminous coating waterproofing

Bituminous coating waterproofing is made out of materials that have a bitumen or asphalt coating base. It provides a very protective and flexible coat based on its polymerization and its formulation. It is most commonly used in areas that are beneath wet surfaces, such as on surfaces with concrete foundations. It is used in places that do not come in direct sunlight. It is mostly used for basement waterproofing.

Bituminous membrane waterproofing

Bituminous membrane waterproofing is a very popular method of waterproofing used for sloping cement / concrete roofs made at low heights. Its proven performance makes it a popular method for waterproofing. Bituminous membrane waterproofing is used as a sub-layer below a top layer made of polymers, fillers, or asphalt. Certain resins and oils are sometimes added to improve durability.

Polyurethane liquid membrane waterproofing

This method of waterproofing is used for areas that are exposed to weathering and in flat roof areas. Polyurethane liquid membrane waterproofing is a more expensive method of waterproofing. The polyurethane liquid membrane has very high flexibility and is very sensitive to moisture. Therefore, one has to be very careful in examining the amount of moisture content of the slab; otherwise, peeling and breakage may happen over time.

Cementitious Waterproofing

The easiest method of waterproofing in any construction is cementitious waterproofing. Cementitious waterproofing involves using ready-to-mix two-component blends of waterproofing coating which are available from a masonry supplier. This kind of waterproofing technique is used in areas such as concrete foundations that remain damp most of the time.

Waterproofing methods are constantly revised with new technologies and methodologies on a daily basis. Therefore, it is essential to be kept aware of the latest updates and processes of waterproofing. It is always better to hire professionals that are fully equipped and knowledgeable to give you the best waterproofing service, so you won’t have to do it again. If waterproofing is not done well, it will lead to damage to property and valuables, which often cost more to fix and replace than the cost of the waterproofing job itself.