Waterproofing

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What is waterproofing?

Waterproofing is applied to your foundations, roof, parapet walls and flashings to prevent water seepage into the structure of the building. Waterproofing is also used to seal a metal roof, concrete slabs, balconies and showers.

Why is waterproofing important?

A high quality waterproofing treatment is absolutely essential to prevent damp from occurring in your building. Damp and serious water damage due to ineffective waterproofing results in costly, and sometimes irreparable damage to your building.

Which areas in the building need waterproofing?

The following areas of your building require good quality waterproofing in order to prevent damp and water damage:

• Foundations
• Concrete slabs
• Paved areas
• Basements and cellars
• Parapet walls
• Balconies
• Roof terraces
• Flashings
• Gutters
• Pitch roofs and joins
• Flat roofs
• Window gulley’s
• Chimneys

The following areas inside a building also require waterproofing to prevent damp and water damage:

• Showers
• Laundry rooms
• Saunas and steam rooms
• Commercial kitchens
• Conservatories
• Skylights
• Ducts and vents

What are the potential health risks associated with waterproofing & damp issues?

Under the right conditions, toxic black mold can grow in a little as 24-48 hours! Regular exposure to this toxic mold poses serious long term health consequences for you and your family.

What are the benefits of waterproofing your property?

• Reduce Energy Costs
• By sealing up cracks in your basement or crawl space you can increase your energy efficiency by preventing cool air from escaping during the summer months and warm air from escaping during the winter months

What is a leaking foundation?

The foundation of your home is built to support the structure and keep water out, but over time the integrity of that foundation may be compromised. Due to the freeze-thaw cycle and hydrostatic pressure from within the earth, foundation walls can become bowed or cracked, causing foundation leaks. This issue can affect all types of foundations, from stone and concrete blocks to poured concrete. The resulting water in your basement can lead to serious, costly structural problems.

What are the causes of basement foundation leaks?

When water seeps into the basement, it can lead to a number of issues, including:

• Shrinking of the concrete foundation
• Water pooling alongside foundation walls or under the floor
• Drainage issues such as water collecting next to the foundation
• Water seeping into foundation blocks
• Clogged footing drain pipe

What happens if you don’t waterproof?

Water where it is not wanted is far more than just a nuisance as damp can become a real danger. Water rots timber which weakens it and it will eventually rot away completely. This can lead to floors and balconies collapsing. Concrete is also subject to ‘concrete cancer’ (spalling) and water penetration is the most common cause of concrete cancer. You can avoid these structural problems altogether by making sure that your structural concrete surfaces are thoroughly waterproofed.

Water can be a health hazard too. Mold and mildew caused by water can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Some studies have even shown a correlation between mold and depression. Mold and mildew only thrive in moist conditions, so if your building is waterproofed and moisture cannot, it cannot develop.

Can waterproofing be applied to existing buildings?

Yes. A professional assessment will reveal how we need to access your structure to apply waterproofing and could include some building repair work. As a professional painting contractor, we are also able to offer painting services to redecorate areas of your building which have been repaired.

How much does waterproofing cost?

When you are having any renovations done, particularly to the bathroom, you cannot afford not to have these areas professionally waterproofed. Water penetration will result in structural damage which will cost far more to repair than the expense of an initial preventative waterproofing treatment.