If you're looking for ways to protect your building from water damage, you may have heard of waterproofing systems. Waterproofing systems are an essential part of any building's construction and maintenance plan, as they help keep water out and protect the structure from serious damage. But what do waterproofing systems actually do?
In this article, we'll provide a brief introduction to waterproofing systems and explain how they work. We'll also discuss the different types of systems available so that you can make an informed decision when selecting one for your building. Finally, we'll look at the benefits of waterproofing systems and how they can help keep your building safe in the long run.
What Is a Waterproofing System?
Are you looking for a way to keep your basement or other areas of your home dry? Then, waterproofing systems are the perfect option for you.
In short, a waterproofing system is an integrated set of products and methods used to help protect your home or other areas from water damage and improve their water resistance. This involves installing various products and accessories, such as drains, sump pumps, sealants, and membranes, to keep out moisture and make the area less vulnerable. It also reduces the risk of flooding and other structural issues caused by water infiltration.
Aside from increasing its structural integrity, waterproofing systems also provide benefits in reducing allergens, mold growth, and unpleasant odors caused by dampness in basements or crawl spaces. This can provide relief from allergy symptoms experienced by people living in the area. So if you're looking for ways to make your home a safer and healthier place to live, waterproofing systems are definitely worth considering.
Types of Waterproofing Systems
When it comes to waterproofing, there are three main categories to consider: sheet, liquid, and coating-based waterproofing systems. Sheet-based systems are typically composed of PVC or rubber layers that are mechanically attached and sealed with adhesive, cold welding, or welding. Liquid systems consist of a two-part or single-component liquid applied directly to the surface in one or multiple coats. And coating-based systems include paint, cementitious, sprayed polyurethane foam, and metallic coatings that are applied on the surface.
Each type of waterproofing system has its own set of pros and cons. Sheet-based systems offer superior protection against water but can require more intense installation techniques. Liquid systems have excellent flexibility—allowing them to expand with the structure—but may not be as tough as sheets in holding up against strong winds or extreme temperatures. Coating-based systems can be easier to apply but may not have the same longevity as a sheet system.
It's important to understand the type of waterproofing system you need for your project so that you can make an informed decision about which type is best for your needs!
Benefits of Waterproofing Systems
Waterproofing systems come with plenty of benefits.
First, they are weather-resistant and can protect your building from moisture and humidity. This means that you can keep the interior of your building dry and free from potential damages caused by water seepage or structural failure.
Additionally, waterproofing systems can also add strength and durability to your building's structure. These systems provide an extra layer of protection to the foundation, walls, and other components of the building that are vulnerable to water damage.
Not only do waterproofing systems help protect your property from water damage, but they also offer a number of other benefits:
Improved insulation: Waterproofing materials provide a protective barrier against extreme temperatures by preventing heat loss or gain inside the building, resulting in improved insulation and energy efficiency.
Increased durability: The protective coating provided by waterproofing materials helps prevent erosion and corrosion, increasing the strength and lifespan of your building's structure for decades to come.
Reduced risk: By protecting your property from water damage, waterproofing systems reduce the risks associated with flooding, leaks, mold growth, water-related structural issues, etc., making them an invaluable investment for any property owner.
Common Waterproofing Systems Materials
Waterproofing systems are designed using a variety of materials like plastic sheets, membranes, concrete, and coatings. Let's take a look at the most common materials and why they're used.
Plastic Sheets
Plastic sheets are an incredibly versatile material for waterproofing, providing resistance to UV radiation and a lot of chemical exposure. It’s also easy to install and repair and can be used for large areas or intricate window detailing.
Membranes
Membranes offer excellent waterproofing capabilities and can be made from materials like rubber, butyl, EPDM rubber, PVC, or TPO. They’re often used in green roofs and with concrete foundations because of how durable they are—you get improved insulation too!
Concrete
Concrete is known as an effective water barrier as it forms a water-tight surface. It’s also cost-effective and has high compressive strength which makes it ideal for resisting foot traffic while providing durability.
Coatings
Do you want something really durable? Coatings are the way to go! Coatings are applied by brush or spray depending on the area you’re looking to waterproof—coatings usually come in liquid form so they’re easy to apply no matter what surface you have.
Selecting the Right Waterproofing System for Your Home
When it comes to selecting the right waterproofing system for your home, there are a few things you should take into consideration.
Climate
Climate should be one of the first things you consider when selecting a waterproofing system for your home. Different climates call for different waterproofing systems—for example if you live in a place that gets a lot of rain, then you should probably make sure you choose a waterproofing system that can handle rainfall or flooding.
Damage Prevention
Another factor to consider is damage prevention. A good waterproofing system should be able to prevent long-term damage to your home caused by water seepage and moisture buildup. It's important to make sure that your chosen waterproofing system can protect your home from potential long-term moisture damage and leaking.
Material Quality
Finally, when selecting a waterproofing system, it's important to make sure that the materials used are of high quality. After all, you want a system that can handle the weight of water and last for years. Make sure any materials used are checked for durability and strength before installation—this will help ensure that your chosen waterproofing system can properly protect your home from potential flooding and water damage.
The Importance of Professional Installation of a Waterproofing System
When it comes to waterproofing systems, you should always go for professional installation. It may be tempting to try and save a buck by DIY’ing your waterproofing system, but the costs of this can far outweigh the savings. Professional installation of a waterproofing system ensures that your property is protected from water damage for years to come.
The more reliable waterproofing systems require professional installation for several reasons:
They are more complex than DIY options and require experienced craftsmanship and specialized tools
They often require subterranean work, which requires additional safety precautions
Professional installers can guarantee the quality of their work, and provide warranties on the materials
DIY kits are often specific to certain areas or sizes and a professional can make sure that your waterproofing system is correctly sized, fitted, and installed correctly in your specific location
Professional installation also helps ensure that your waterproofing system adheres to all local building codes so you don’t run into any issues with inspection or permit requirements. Make sure that you get your waterproofing system installed by an experienced professional who has the qualifications needed to safely install it.
Conclusion
Waterproofing systems can be an important part of keeping your home or building dry, and they can be used in a variety of applications. But it's important to do your research before making a decision, as there are many different kinds of waterproofing systems.
It's important to consider your objectives, budget, and other variables when selecting a waterproofing system, and it's also important to consult with a professional for the most successful results. Using a high-quality waterproofing system and proper installation can help ensure your home or building will be protected from water damage for many years.
Further Reading:
The Fundamentals of Injection Waterproofing
Is It Time to Waterproof Your Basement Walls?
Don't Be Caught Off Guard: How to Spot and Fix Hidden Water Damage in Your Home