Waterproofing is not the first thing we think about when deciding on a new home. Most often, we imagine the end result and a carefree rest in the new place. However, if we forget the basics, such as proper waterproofing, our idyll will turn into a veritable nightmare with a waterlogged basement, cracked plaster or fungus on the wall. Sound threatening? These are just a few of the dangers. At stake are not only aesthetic issues involving corrosion of materials, visible cracks, dampness and leaks, but above all our safety and finances.
What dangers is your building exposed to?
The destructive power of water, wind and solar radiation are the factors we first associate with damage to a building's structure. They are not the only ones that pose a threat in this case. Dissolved organic compounds from septic processes, as well as salts of minerals contained in soil and plant fertilizers, are present in water. Salts increase the volume of building materials, which over time leads to their destruction. Another unavoidable danger is the cyclical change of temperatures and the process of water freezing, which in the worst case results in the bursting of materials.
Wet masonry elements lose their thermal insulation properties. Manufacturers declare the thermal conductivity coefficient, for a given material, achieved under laboratory conditions with a perfectly dry material. Moisture from the wall penetrates into the thermal insulation, which loses its thermal insulation properties. It is worth remembering that ensuring adequate waterproofing of foundations, roofs, balconies, but also bathrooms, also significantly affects heating bills.
Plaster falling off
© Hydrosystem
What are the consequences of poorly executed waterproofing?
- Waterlogged basement
- Soggy walls
- Falling off plaster, paint and tiles
- Unsightly tarnish on the wall
- Dangerous to health fungi and mold
- Persistent unpleasant smell of moisture in the rooms
- Loss of thermal insulation properties
- Dehumidification of the building
- Replacement of building materials
- Costly repair work, among other things:digging up foundations, injection
- Re-execution of waterproofing
Injection
© Hydrosystem
Why was the waterproofing done wrong?
Mistakes often result from ignorance or excessive cost-cutting. The worst thing we can do is to save money on materials. The cost of repairing damaged waterproofing is much higher than the price of a good waterproofing made at the construction stage. Water migration is an additional factor that makes the repair difficult, since the cause of the problem may be on a different side of the building than the effects of the moisture.
An essential step before building a new project is to perform a soil survey, so we can choose the right type of foundation waterproofing. Damp proofing is sufficient if the house is placed on permeable soils like sands and gravels. In case the groundwater level is disturbed, only waterproofing provides us with a high level of safety.
Adequate protection of the foundation is essential. However, we are not always able to predict what problems the foundation will be exposed to. Imagine a situation in which 10 years after the construction of a building, single-family housing estates are built in its vicinity. In such cases, the groundwater level will be disturbed. The foundation may be exposed, for example, to pressurized water, which only a damp-proof insulation will not cope with.
Selecting inadequate materials is a common mistake leading to waterproofing leaks, with large financial losses as a consequence. Unfortunately, the same problem is repeated with inadequate application of materials. Hiring trained professionals is the best solution, but we can choose to do the waterproofing ourselves. Before going to work, it is necessary not only to study the product data sheet carefully, but it is also best to consult a person who will explain to us exactly what supplementary materials and accessories to use and guide us in detail through the entire technology.
Cracked floor under a layer of resin
© Hydrosystem
What can you do to choose the right insulation system?
The best way is to rely on expert technical advice. We offer assistance in the form of telephone and online consultations, although we strongly prefer to see a specific case in person.
Come to SANIER, which offers specialized building materials. We provide expert technical advice, consultations and training in waterproofing and restoration. We help to choose the right materials and technology tailored to the specific case.
For an additional dose of knowledge, please visit www.sanier.pl
For more information, visit the company's {tag:Manufacturer} page on the PdD portal.
