Your house is more than just a valuable asset; it is also a place where you create memories. And these memories should not just last a lifetime, they should last for generations. The best way to ensure that your home stands the test of time is to waterproof it. This is because water damage can wreak havoc on the structural integrity of the house.
But, it might be difficult to know where to start and what the best options for waterproofing are. So, here’s a basic guide to everything you need to know about waterproofing and protecting your property from damage.
Basics of Waterproofing
Waterproofing is essentially a process that protects a structure from absorbing moisture. Water is prone to seep through porous surfaces and accumulate. As a result, minor cracks begin to appear in the walls. If left unchecked, these could turn into severe cracks over time. Cracked walls can cause major structural damage to your home.
In addition, water seepage can lead to the growth of fungus, mold, and mildew on the walls. These are extremely harmful because they pollute the air we breathe, causing or worsening respiratory problems. Mildew can also cause vomiting and organ damage in extreme circumstances.
Also, water leaking into electrical connections can cause dangerous short circuits and fires.
Prevention During Construction
Waterproofing is most effective when done during the construction phase of the home. When waterproofing materials are mixed with cement and sand in the proper proportions, a strong cohesive bond is formed. This method guard against damage to all types of brickwork, foundations, roof slabs, and plastering.
However, despite your best efforts, there could be times when moisture seeps in. It is important to repair any damp spots or cracks on your home’s interior and exterior walls as soon as you notice them.
Using Berger waterproofing solutions during the construction stage can help prevent such structural damage. Use cement-based free flow putty or polymer-modified products on the exteriors and interiors during construction to ensure additional water repellency. Premium grade putty also provides a smooth surface and helps topcoat paints last longer. Special additives in waterproofing solutions, based on Crystalline technology, create a strong, flexible waterproof covering over substrates.
Regardless of the surface, you’re painting on, the right paint provides the first line of defense against the elements, including water. Before painting a wall, apply a protective undercoat made of water-insoluble crystalline microstructures. This type of coat prevents moisture from entering the wall’s gaps and ensures strong bonding. To protect your walls from water damage, use paints like Berger waterproof paint.
Healing with Sealing
Waterproofing your home also entails addressing any existing water entry issues and repairing any structural flaws. Over time, your walls can develop cracks that start in the weakest section of the wall. Moisture seeps into your home through these cracks, causing damp patches on your walls. It is critical to seal gaps and cracks indoors and outdoors to maintain the integrity and beauty of your home.
Due to their excellent bonding properties, sealers made of penetrative Acrylic Polymers can be used to repair deeper cracks. For minor cracks, a combination of waterproof putty and a strong silicon undercoat can be used. For example, Berger paints waterproofing solutions include highly effective sealers and undercoats.
Dampness depletes the lifespan of walls. It is primarily caused by water leakage from bathrooms, kitchens, and gaps in the walls, among other things. To repair rising dampness, strip away the paint from the wall and apply a damp-proof primer coat. To control dampness, apply a cement-based solution that forms a strong flexible waterproof coating on the interior and exterior walls.
Advanced Waterproofing
The exteriors of your home require far more protection than the interiors. This is due to their exposure to UV rays, higher and lower temperatures, thunderstorms, and other factors. To properly protect the exteriors of your home, use coatings with seamless waterproofing membranes and strong adhesive properties. Roofs, like the walls, deteriorate as the protective layers erode. Flat roofs are more prone to cracking, allowing moisture to seep into the ceiling below. Leaking roofs can also cause electrical problems and structural damage. Use a flexible and waterproof roof coating with strong crack-bridging properties to avoid leaking roofs.
When waterproofing external walls, make a note of the locations of windows, air exhaust pipes, air conditioning lines, cable service entrances, and so on. Water will seep in and cause mold growth as well as permanent structural damage if these openings are not properly sealed. When painting your exterior walls, consider buying easy-to-use paints that are also resistant to rain and heat. These coatings will add another layer of protection to your home.
Keeping these points in mind will help you waterproof your home and increase its longevity. Paint companies also provide waterproofing advice. These services employ experts to identify the source of the moisture content and recommend tailored waterproofing solutions. So, get in touch with a professional painting service, such as Berger Express Painting, for best results.
