Waterproofing is the process of making an object or structure waterproof or water-resistant, so that it remains relatively unaffected by water or resisting the ingress of water under specified conditions. Such items may be used in wet environments or under water to specified depths. Water resistant and waterproof often refer to penetration of water in its liquid state and possibly under pressure. Permeation of water vapor through a material or structure is reported as a moisture vapor transmission rate.
Why Waterproofing is Essential?
It helps reduce humidity inside the house and thereby protects things inside your house from damage caused due to humidity or water exposure. It is also important for the veracity of the building. Water infiltration causes major problems to a structure. Water damages a building first cosmetically then structurally. It is important to realize that by the time a stain shows up on the interior of your building most likely irreversible damage has been caused to the exterior. Water soaked roof insulation will never dry out.
Trapped moisture in insulation can also decay a roof deck and will cause roofs to fail prematurely. Water entering walls will rust steel relieving angles and carrying beams, which support the structure. Moisture penetrating reinforced concrete structures carry chloride ions, which will rust reinforcing bars causing them to expand in size resulting in spalling of concrete. As one begins to understand the mechanics of water infiltration one begins to understand the importance of keeping a building watertight. Water damage can be compared to fire as a cause of building decay and deterioration. Water is hydrophilic and to convert it into hydrophobic is the definition of waterproofing.
Benefits of Waterproofing
➢ It reduces the Maintenance Cost and Increases the Property Value
➢ It strengthens the structure
➢ Provides healthy Environment
➢ Energy Efficient
➢ Decreased Humidity
➢ Cooler Comfort
