THE KEY BENEFITS OF WATERPROOFING
24.07.2019 | Waterproofing Solutions
Waterproofing is often on the lower priority or excluded when planning for the pre-construction process, focusing on other factors such as design specifications and site preparation. To add on, waterproofing is also one element that increases the overall construction budget more often than not due to the complexities of the process. But living in a country that is susceptible to constant thunderstorms, rainy weather and frequent monsoon seasons increases the risk of damage to surfaces in the long run, deteriorating the building’s aesthetics as well as the quality of the interior and exterior surfaces of the building. Waterproofing is an investment that is surely worthwhile, benefitting property developers and owners in the long run.
Why Is Waterproofing Necessary?
The use of proper products and Coatings systems will build a strong waterproofing foundation for buildings, regardless of building typography, protecting surfaces from risk of long-term damage. Waterproofing is essential to help reduce moisture levels in the interior surfaces, preventing water damage and structural breakdown across common surfaces such as walls, ceilings, basements, floors, rooftops and, bathrooms.
Insufficient waterproofing systems often lead to recurring problems caused by water leakage including cracks, blisters and mould – which produces mildew and spores that may potentially lead to respiratory problems in individuals. In the long term, repairing and regular maintenance for such problems will be more costly and ineffective than preventing these issues in the first place.
A Waterproofing Checklist
Waterproofing system and coatings varies for different buildings typologies, depending on the conditions and areas the buildings are situated during the pre-construction phase. Whether restoring older buildings, or working on new projects, it remains critical to take into account these considerations to protect structures for the long run:
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Assess the current underlying conditions and issues of the buildings prior to the development and construction processBefore starting work on implementing waterproofing systems, a thorough assessment is required to ensure the correct waterproofing solutions are applied according to the nature of the premises. There are various types of waterproofing membranes (i.e cementitious membrane, liquid membrane sheet membrane amongst others) to be considered according to building specifications, complemented with an effective design which ensures optimum feasibility of the solutions. For existing structures which require certain waterproofing solutions to be applied, prior repair or maintenance work may be necessary to ensure that the waterproofing system when applied, is effective.
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Identify areas that require waterproofing systems
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While areas such as the bathroom, rooftop, kitchen and swimming pools typically require waterproofing, other areas such as balconies and basements also require end-to-end waterproofing systems to adequately protect these structures from water damage.
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Waterproofing areas that are made out of concrete such as balconies and basements creates an added level of protection, preventing cracks from forming and protects the space from direct UV rays which are detrimental to the longevity of the area. Waterproofing also prevents the growth of mould and mildew, which consequently leads up to other recurring structural issues.
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Durable solution is keyWaterproofing solutions are a long-term commitment for any structure, providing a strong and sturdy foundation, and thus it is important to ensure that the selected waterproofing system is durable. Weigh the pros and cons upon thorough assessment of the premise to ensure that the solution chosen is long-lasting, cost-effective, but also minimises the need for maintenance or repair works over time.
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