Waterproofing is the process of making a structure water-resistant so that the area stays unaffected by water ingress. Waterproofing refers to resistance to penetration of water under pressure, humidity, or dampness. Waterproofing membranes is to trap water escape. Walls have vapor barriers and air barriers.
Singapore weathers are hot and humid therefore waterproofing is critical. Humidity can be a potential problem, causing dampness, mould growth and waterproofing foundation walls to deteriorate with water damage seepage.
Failed waterproof deck, polymer and tile are one of the leading causes of water damage to building structures and personal injury of fall, especially on rooftop deck and balcony. Another factor is the impact of expansion and contraction on waterproofing systems on decks, movement of underlying substrates that cause too much stress on the membranes resulting in failure of the waterproofing system. These include the waterproofing membrane used, adequate slope-drainage, flashing, construction materials.
We therefore classify waterproofing works into two main types: the hydrophilic and the hydrophobic system. A hydrophilic system is typically using crystallization technology that replaces the water in the concrete with insoluble crystals. Hydrophobic systems use concrete sealers to block pores with the concrete to prevent water passage. They are applied to concrete to protect surface damage, corrosion, and staining. They block the pores in the concrete to reduce absorption of water to an impermeable layer which prevents such materials from passing. Various brand in the market claims equivalent properties but not all can react with a wide range of cement hydration and require caution in handling.
There is different type of waterproofing materials such as Polyurethane membrane, Cementitious membrane, Bituminous membrane, PVC waterproofing membrane and Epoxy membrane. Thus these are better known as we explain above and classify waterproofing works.
Waterproofing is necessarily for toilet, bathroom, shower, balcony, roof, kitchen of every household. Commercially will be commercial kitchen, swimming pool, walk path, flooring, wall surface to prevent water damage of the building structure.
Waterproofing sealer are also an essential in waterproofing. Waterproof sealants seal out moisture from window and edge of the connecting wall and joint to reinforce water damage or deteriorate of flooring. It offers long-last protection from moisture, water, and abrasion, enhance protection from stains and chemical resistance. High-end polyurethane is extremely abrasion resistance. Polyurethane is applied only to fully cured existing concrete. They are often use in application such as flooring, balcony, walk path, all other water-based high human-flow area.
Waterproofing sealant also extends the lifespan of your concrete and increase its overall durability. There are several waterproofing sealants in the market, acrylic sealers, penetrating sealers, polyurethane sealers, and epoxy sealers. No matter what kind of concrete sealer, the proper application is important. They required full cured to get complete waterproof or water resistant, else it will lead to bubbling and foaming when exposed to water or moisture.
Looking for waterproofing solution? Contact us now, SWC Construction, to get free consultation for hassle-free waterproofing solution. Unsure of waterproofing or require a better understanding on these classify waterproofing works. Ping us as we have a team of experience contractor and consultant to work out a plan for you to resolve all your waterproofing issue and repairs work.