Top 10 Waterproofing Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Peter Kai
- Nov 19, 2024
- 3 min read
Protect Your Building from Costly Repairs and Leaks
Waterproofing is a critical step in protecting buildings from structural damage, leaks, and expensive repairs. However, even new contractors and property managers can sometimes make costly errors. Avoiding these mistakes ensures long-lasting protection and saves money in the long run. Here’s a guide to the most common waterproofing mistakes and how to prevent them.
1. Skipping Proper Surface Preparation
The Mistake: Applying waterproofing systems without cleaning, repairing, or leveling the surface.
Why It’s a Problem: Dirt, debris, cracks, and uneven surfaces reduce adhesion, leaving the system prone to leaks.
How to Avoid It: Always clean, repair, and prime surfaces thoroughly before application. Proper preparation is the foundation of effective waterproofing.
2. Using Incompatible Materials
The Mistake: Combining materials that don’t work well together, such as certain sealants with membranes or coatings.
Why It’s a Problem: Incompatible materials can cause premature failure, peeling, or cracking, compromising the waterproofing.
How to Avoid It: Follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure all materials are compatible. When in doubt, consult an expert.
3. Improper Application
The Mistake: Applying products unevenly, at the wrong thickness, or in unsuitable weather conditions.
Why It’s a Problem: Uneven application leaves gaps, rendering the waterproofing ineffective. Extreme heat or rain can also impact performance.
How to Avoid It: Follow the manufacturer’s application instructions carefully, including recommended thickness, curing time, and weather conditions.
4. Neglecting Drainage Systems
The Mistake: Assuming waterproofing alone can prevent water buildup without addressing drainage.
Why It’s a Problem: Water pooling can overwhelm even the best waterproofing systems, leading to leaks.
How to Avoid It: Incorporate proper drainage systems like gutters, downspouts, and slope designs to redirect water effectively.
5. Overlooking Expansion Joints
The Mistake: Ignoring or improperly waterproofing expansion joints.
Why It’s a Problem: Structural movement can cause leaks if expansion joints are not sealed correctly.
How to Avoid It: Use durable, flexible sealants specifically designed for expansion joints to accommodate building movement.
6. Failing to Test the System
The Mistake: Skipping post-application testing, such as water ponding or pressure testing.
Why It’s a Problem: Undetected flaws can lead to future leaks and expensive repairs.
How to Avoid It: Perform thorough testing after application to ensure the system is functioning as intended.
7. Using the Wrong Waterproofing Method
The Mistake: Choosing an unsuitable waterproofing method for the building's specific needs.
Why It’s a Problem: Environmental factors like high water pressure or temperature fluctuations require tailored solutions.
How to Avoid It: Consult experts to select the right method, whether it’s TPO membranes, bitumen, or liquid-applied coatings.
8. Ignoring Maintenance
The Mistake: Assuming waterproofing systems are maintenance-free.
Why It’s a Problem: Wear and tear, UV exposure, and debris can degrade the system over time.
How to Avoid It: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance to address minor issues before they become major problems.
9. Cutting Costs on Materials and Labor
The Mistake: Using cheap materials or untrained labor to save money.
Why It’s a Problem: Low-quality products and poor installation lead to frequent failures and higher long-term costs.
How to Avoid It: Invest in high-quality materials and hire experienced professionals for installation.
10. Disregarding Building Movement
The Mistake: Failing to account for structural movement during waterproofing.
Why It’s a Problem: Movement can crack rigid waterproofing layers, causing leaks.
How to Avoid It: Use elastic, flexible waterproofing materials that adapt to structural shifts.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common mistakes ensures your building stays leak-free and protected for years to come. Proper waterproofing not only safeguards your property but also saves you money and time in the long run.
For expert advice and customized waterproofing solutions, trust the professionals at EVERDRY Waterproofing.
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