Waterproofing in the building industry refers to the process of protecting the building from damage caused by water. This is a multi-step process that involves the installation of a waterproof membrane between the outside of the building and the structure of the building, insulation against heat transfer, and waterproofing of the structure. The terms ‘waterproof’ and ‘water-resistant’ are used to describe materials or products which prevent the penetration of water into a building structure. These terms are used in building regulations to classify the level of protection provided by the materials used.
Reasons to Waterproof your Building
Waterproofing is required in construction for several reasons. For example, waterproofing can prevent the spread of mold and rot to wood or other building materials. If a basement is not waterproofed, water can seep through the walls and into the basement, causing damage to the building. Waterproofing can also help protect against flooding and high water levels.
Every structure has to be waterproofed in order to protect it from water damage. Water damage is one of the most common reasons for loss of property. So to minimize water damage to a property, one should be aware of the different waterproofing methods and when they should be used. There are various types of waterproofing used in the construction industry. Every type of it is used for different purposes. For example, water-repellent paints. Water-repellent paints are used in exterior applications. Such as walls, roofs, and decks to protect surfaces from water damage. The paints are usually made of silicone, acrylic, or polyurethane.
Polyurethanes
Polyurethanes are polymers derived from the reaction of a diisocyanato with difunctional alcohol. The word is a portmanteau derived from the phrase “urethane prepolymer”. Polyurethanes are commonly foams used as insulation, thermal and acoustic insulation, padding, adhesives and sealants, some hard plastics, coatings, and surfboards. With such properties polyurethanes are suitable for a variety of industrial and consumer applications.
Polyurethanes are commonly used in anti-static surfaces and can be formed into rigid or flexible foams. (polyurethane foam). Polyurethane coatings are an alternative to more traditional and expensive methods of waterproofing. Unlike chemicals and membranes, this coating provides both waterproofing and insulation. Polyurethanes are easy to apply, and they come in a variety of textures to suit different needs. Whether you need a flooring coating or a coating for a wall, you can find a polyurethane that will work for you.
Cementitious Coating
The cementitious coating is a cement-based coating that usually contains Portland cement as the main component. A cementitious coating (e.g. concrete or mortar) protects the steel from corrosion by maintaining the pH level above 4. It can increase the strength of concrete and protect reinforced concrete against a chlorides environment. This coating also provides protection from the effects of aggressive acid gases, moisture, and chlorides in addition to resisting the chemical attack on the concrete or other substrate. The biggest advantage of a cementitious waterproofing application is that it’s easy to apply.
Cementitious waterproofing products can easily be used for a wide variety of projects. Professionals use them to create waterproof seals for concrete structures, such as foundations, walls, sidewalks, and walkways. These products are ideal for use on a broad range of concrete applications. While cementitious has its pluses, it also has its minuses. The biggest problem is that it doesn’t offer flexibility.
Bituminous Membrane
The bituminous membrane is a flexible waterproofing membrane that can be used in many different applications. It protects your building from water penetration. Moreover , they’re one of the cheapest, most effective ways to waterproof your commercial and residential buildings. Bitumen is a naturally occurring hydrocarbon material found in oil deposits throughout the world. While it is an incredibly useful material and can be used in a variety of ways, one of the most common uses of bitumen is for pavement.
Asphalt is a derivative of bitumen. It is a viscous, black liquid that is solid at room temperature. Asphalt is used in two different ways: as a thin coating on the surface of a road and as a thick layer on the pavement. It is commonly known as tar or pitch. The benefits of bitumen waterproofing are great. It is environmentally friendly, easy to install, and safe to use. It is incredibly durable, possessing properties that help it resist water penetration in some of the harshest weather conditions.
PVC Membrane
PVC Membrane is a waterproofing membrane made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A versatile plastic that can be formed into pipes, sheets, rods, and other shapes for use in construction and other applications. Since it is waterproof, it can be used for surfaces that will be exposed to water. It is popular for use in things like pipes, gutters, and swimming pool liners. This type of roofing has a number of advantages.
Advantages
- First of all, it is extremely durable. PVC roofing can last as long as 50 years with very little maintenance and the right application.
- The membrane will protect your roof from any leaks and will prevent any rotting of your interior wood.
- PVC Membrane is great for a wide range of environments. The reason being, it actually absorbs ultraviolet light rather than reflecting it, so its color doesn’t fade from sun exposure.
- PVC roofing systems maintain their look for a lifetime and are extremely fireproof. This makes them suitable for housing complexes, hospitals, schools, and many other settings.
- It is known to be resistant to harsh weather conditions. Under hot climates like that of Karachi, a PVC flat roof tends to keep up the temperature inside the building despite the heat outside. During winter, it helps protect your home from ruining under cold weather. Even as we approach summer, it can provide warm insulation against extreme temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Do a little bit of research. You will find that there are a number of different waterproofing materials used in buildings. Since the goal is to prevent water from entering the building, it’s important to learn which type of material is going to work best for your specific project requirements before you begin.
Contact Tameerkaro
Tameerkaro does care about the protection of your building and uses the best quality waterproofing material in the construction, especially of your house. For the construction of all types of industrial, commercial, or residential buildings in Pakistan, contact an expert at Tameerkaro Construction Company. Since 1986, the company has a history of constructing strong buildings in all Pakistan cities, especially in Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and other cities of Punjab. Call at 0300-0556666 or sign up to send an inquiry online.