7 most common questions about waterproofing

Waterproofing services

Waterproofing is the process of making a structure waterproof, not to be confused with water resistant. For the purpose of protecting buildings structural integrity. Now you have a better understanding of what waterproofing is, below are the 7 most common questions relating to waterproofing.

Waterproofing is required around any structure where water can seep in. Areas like bathrooms, laundry and kitchens may require walls waterproofed to a certain height (check with your local council. These areas should be completed by professionals. Regardless of their build whether it be timber or concrete, balconies are another place that should be waterproofed and the roof needs to be waterproofed. If water leaks occur through the roof electrical problems may occur as well as structural damage.

In most cases yes, however, there is still a process to follow. Let’s pretend you want to repaint your bathroom where some plasterboard is slightly damaged. Give the surface a good scrub to properly inspect the affected area to ensure it is not deeper than you originally thought. From most hardware stores you are able to find a waterproofing spray (or primer if you will). Apply this to the damaged area and allow to dry before painting said area. The main area of focus is to prepare the surface properly so the primer can do its job.

You may have already read our article on issues caused by waterproofing. The short answer is yes. A large factor that contributes to waterproofing failure is poor workmanship. When waterproofing is not installed properly by a contractor or sufficiently, leaks can occur leading to structural damage and lead to a building being uninhabitable. If you’re unsure, seek professional advice. We offer a free quote service, a little bit of time could save you a lot of money.

Provided waterproofing is not being applied to a wet surface (the negative side), It will get wet. Waterproofing is applied to a surface to stop the ingress of water. Think of balcony and roof waterproofing, there is a chance these areas will be wet in the construction stage, the application will occur when the area is dry and prepared. From here water is not a concern.

Anyone can perform waterproofing provided the value of the work does not exceed $3,300. Whilst a licence is not required, a person applying, installing or repairing waterproofing (including surface preparation) may be required to provide a certificate stating that they are a competent person.

Most manufacturers and waterproofing contractors will give a ten-year warranty on waterproofing. Warranty claims may all come down to how good the surface was prepared, waterproofing was installed, and the quality of the product.

Water in unwanted places can lead to a number of bad things. Water will rot timber, period. If a timber structure rots, this will alter the structural integrity of a building. You might think that it will only affect one area of a structure. Wrong. Sections of a structural frame are designed to work together to form one solid structure. By removing one section of a frame places stress on other areas, weakening the entire structure. One small section of timber rot due to poor waterproofing can cause a lot of damage if left untreated.

When water seeps into concrete due to poor or insufficient waterproofing, concrete cancer is likely to follow. Concrete cancer has been the cause of buildings demolishing. It can cause irreparable damage to a building structural integrity.

 
If you have an area that requires waterproofing and are unsure of how you should go about it, don’t hesitate to give us a call and ask about our waterproofing services. This is not a task that should be overlooked.