What Are The Waterproofing Problems In Buildings?

Imagine returning to your basement after being away for a few weeks and discovering a strange green growth along the walls. You have a healthy amount of disgust for the abandoned furniture before you even see it. Obviously, the green stuff hasn't been very nice to it either. A thin layer of what appears to be carpet has settled atop your upholstered sofa, and is now dripping over the sofa's wooden legs and spreading across the floor below. Currently, it disgusts you. You were so frightened that you became completely still.

So, what actually happened? A few weeks ago, when you last rearranged your items in this space, it looked fine.

And, yes, there was rain. So that's the point. Although mildew damage to furniture is very frequent, it is nevertheless unsettling to see it. It's quite unlikely that this is the first time you've dealt with an issue caused by too much moisture inside the structure. While you may have played down the seriousness of the problem, we have to ask: is that grayish-green organism currently swarming in your basement? That mould on the wall needs to be dealt with immediately.

The presence of mildew is only one indicator that your home's water resistance isn't as high as you would have thought. We're not trying to make you feel uneasy, but there are lots of other items that are saying the same thing. This is instead to stress how important it is to fix any problems related to the waterproofing of your home or business immediately.

If there is one place you should never be concerned about your safety, it is in your own house. Most of us place a high value on our homes and view them as our most valuable asset. As an example, if you want your home to last for many years without any major repairs, you should take care of any waterproofing problems as soon as possible, before they worsen. This blog post will help you understand these challenges so that you can handle them on your own or, if required, seek the advice of a professional.

Building Waterproofing Problems

Roofs, cellars, and outside walls are the most usual places to find a lack of waterproofing. Your home is more at risk for damage in the areas that are directly exposed to the elements.

Let's check out why buildings frequently have problems with water infiltration and how to fix them.

Cracks In Foundation Walls

Water is the greatest threat to the structural integrity of a building's most important part, the foundation.

Water comes down as snow and rain, and it's also in the ground where the structure is set.

Many different things can lead to cracks in a foundation wall, such as water seepage from the soil, improper building techniques, soil expansion, uneven ground, and freeze-thaw weathering, and contraction, to name just a few. The longer this issue persists, the more the building's weight eventually weakens the foundation. Over time, any building material will decay, not only wood, concrete, or stone. Water intrusion can cause concrete foundations to gradually shrink over time.

There may be an issue with the waterproofing if there are any cracks. If you discover any cracks in your walls, especially in the basement, you should have them checked out immediately. Non-structural cracks may indicate water infiltration. There will be cracks, but you won't be able to tell which ones are structural. Expert inspection is recommended.

Sump Pump Problems

Water is the greatest threat to the structural integrity of a building's most important part, the foundation.

Water comes down as rain or snow, and it's also in the ground where the structure is set.

Numerous factors can lead to foundation wall cracks, such as poor craftsmanship, uneven terrain, freeze-thaw weathering,soil expansion and contraction, and water seepage from the soil, to name just a few. With continued use, the building's weight will eventually weaken the foundation, which will only make the situation worse. Over time, any building material will decay, not only wood, concrete, or stone. Water penetration can cause concrete foundations to shrink over time.

 

It's possible that not all the cracks mean anything major is wrong, but some could point to a problem with the waterproofing. Wall fractures, especially those found in the basement, require immediate investigation. Non-structural cracks may indicate water infiltration. Nonetheless, you won't be able to tell cosmetic divots from structural ones. It is recommended to have a professional check things out.

A sump pump is a type of suction pump used to remove water from a sump (a low point or dip in the ground) and transport it elsewhere.

Its main purpose is to prevent water damage to the foundation of a building. To do this, it collects water from the environment and directs it away from the building's base.

The primary function of a sump pump is to remove excess water from a building's lowest point, typically the basement. The construction process also includes the installation of sump pumps in predetermined pits.

If your sump pump stops working, it could be a serious problem. If you ignore the problem, it will get worse, resulting in a wet basement and a compromised foundation, and it will cost you thousands of dollars to fix the problem and the damage it causes to your home.

Unfortunately, problems with sump pumps are not unusual. There could be a number of issues with the pump, including mechanical failure, poor installation, a poor fit with the structure, or a faulty switch. The pump could potentially freeze if subjected to extreme temperatures. Therefore, it is essential to keep up with the sump pump's maintenance. In contrast, most people put in a sump pump and forget about it until their basement floods and they have no idea why.

Infrequent usage of a sump pump increases the likelihood that it will become clogged with debris and will not work properly when rain is present. If you want to avoid this from happening, it's important to run it frequently to check that everything is in working condition.

Faulty Roofs

Waterproofing a roof, especially on an older home that has endured several winters, can be just as challenging as doing it in a basement.

When the roofing membrane fails, leaks form in the roof. Leaks are more common on flat roofs than on roofs with steeper slopes. Moisture in the ceiling could be caused by water dripping from the roof. As a result, this can be a breeding ground for mould, especially in attics and similar enclosed spaces. When a roof leaks, it can disrupt power and weaken the building itself.

If you find even a hint of wetness or a crack in your ceiling, you should get it checked out right away. The longer you wait, the higher the repair costs will be.

The Drainage System Is Inefficient

Water damage to your home can also be caused by poor drainage, which becomes even more of an issue when it rains. Water that is not drained away from the foundation wall by the eavestroughs and downspouts will pool there, causing structural damage and mould growth. Your home's drainage system may get overwhelmed in the event of heavy rains, when a great deal of water pours through the eavestroughs and falls on the weeping tiles surrounding the foundation.

A clogged drain is a typical source of water damage in homes and is never good news.

Types Of Waterproofing

Exterior And Interior Waterproofing

Waterproofing protects your walls from the damaging effects of humidity and the occasional flood, ensuring that they will remain strong and free of unsightly fungal growth.

Waterproofing the interior of a building is a strategy for coping with moisture or water that has already made its way inside. Because it involves moisture/water management rather than keeping it out, some people say this technique shouldn't even be called waterproofing. Water from the inside is collected and directed to a sump pump via the drainage system. Groundwater in the area can be collected and diverted away from the foundation by putting tubes and drains all along walls or beneath the foundation. This will help to keep the basement and walls dry.

Waterproofing the exterior of your walls, on the other hand, addresses the issue at its source. Compared to interior waterproofing, this is typically more efficient, thorough, and expensive.

If you have a damp basement or damp walls, waterproofing from the outside is your best bet. If you can't seal the building's outside, then you need to use some sort of internal waterproofing. Suppose you find yourself unable to pay the enormous bill that has been presented to you. But what if the basement is in an inconvenient part of the house? What if your neighbour isn't thrilled about you commencing work on the damp walls?

Internal waterproofing can be considered for fixing small leaks or other non-structural issues. Good for getting rid of the water, but it doesn't solve the fundamental issue of why there's so much of it in the first place.

Roof Waterproofing

Typically, roofs are made watertight by covering their exposed surfaces with a waterproofing membrane. You don't want puddles of water to form, so make sure the application is very level and smooth.

In and of itself, this is an effective means of preventing roof leaks. Yet if you want to keep water from collecting on the roof, you'll need to build a slope, and that requires yet another layer.

The use of a suitable filler material for a roof can achieve this. When the appropriate gradient is established, lay the material and cover it with tiles or flooring.

Brick Waterproofing

Bricks that have been damaged by water or moisture must be treated and sealed. Grout and bricks, like concrete and wood, are vulnerable to damage by water. In this part of Canada, where winters are typically cold and dry, the soil and minerals that have worked their way into the bricks expand when the water they contain freezes. Now you know the answer to the age-old question of why bricks crack and crumble.

Mouldy bricks are another sign that moisture is a problem, and they will reduce the aesthetic value of your masonry.

By keeping water and moisture from penetrating the bricks, you can avoid the aforementioned issues.

Fungus,  graffiti, stains, and efflorescence are all washed away before the bricks are ever laid.

Acids and other over-the-counter substances may seem like a quick fix, but we recommend staying away from them. The reason for this is that while the acids might get rid of the stains, they will almost certainly destroy your bricks and stone masonry.

Sealers and water repellents are good, but waterproofing agents are much better.

• Remove the dust and filth and patch the holes in the walls.
• First, you should apply a layer of waterproofing material to the afflicted area. Wait a few minutes and then add a second, stronger coat.
• Several high-quality waterproofing options are available. If you want to save money by waterproofing your brickwork on your own, research your options.
• Depending on how often the coating is damaged by the elements, water repellents may need to be reapplied every few years.

Waterproofing and sealing your home is a job that can be handled on a small scale by the homeowner. We recommend hiring professionals from a waterproofing business for anything even remotely risky or large in scope.

Repairing Your Basement Problems

Having a damp basement is a major safety hazard. Most of the time, though, they are damp. And it's not limited to the wetter months. Dark and dreary, with a musty smell and a melancholy ambience, basements have a bad reputation. The lack of windows and air circulation is to blame for this. What follows is a list of the most frequently encountered problems and their corresponding resolutions in regards to one's basement.

Clogged Roof Gutters

Rainwater and melted snow can be diverted away from your house's structure with the use of gutters and downspouts. If they become clogged with detritus like twigs, leaves, and pebbles, however, water will not be diverted away from your foundation walls, but rather will flow down and pool there.

Water Building Up

A moist basement is a year-round problem if the driveway or yard slopes down towards the house. Water from any source, including watering the garden or washing the driveway, will stream down the slope and collect around your basement, making flood prevention an absolute necessity. The soil around your foundation will become saturated from even a trickle of rainfall, allowing groundwater to seep into the basement.

Storms, rain, and snow will make this condition much worse.

A Moisture Build-Up

Humidity and moisture can build up in a basement for many different reasons. Outside, some of the water from the gutter did not fully drain after it rained. Because of precipitation and melting snow, water has accumulated close to your house's walls and foundation.

Whatever the case may be, you need to get a dehumidifier for the basement right away to prevent the growth of mould.

Wall Cracks

Water doesn't always burst through the front door; often it sneaks in through the walls. Consequently, be on the lookout for openings, and make sure to close them down as quickly as you can.

Signs Your Basement Needs Waterproofing

Water damage is one of a homeowner's biggest worries. Water damage to your home's structure is extensive, mould poses serious health issues that must be addressed immediately, and the possibility of more damage to your property is high.

Depending on how much damage water causes, you may need to immediately replace things like insulation, drywall, and the structure if it gets inside your home.

Because of the potential health problems it might bring and the high cost of eradicating it, mould remediation is a challenging and expensive task.

Get in touch with a professional waterproofer immediately if you find any of the following eight signs in your home:

• Water puddles in the basement
• Water damage, such as stains on the wall or floor
• Continual seepage from the ground or the walls
• Condensation on basement windows or doors
• Doors that have become bloated or warped
• The perpetual mustiness of dampness
• Visual Indications of Mold or Mildew
• Cracks in the floors or walls

The stability of your home's structure can be compromised if a leak is left unchecked for too long or if moisture problems aren't dealt with properly.

Structural engineers are the go-to people to fix problems with the foundation, which are more involved than simply soaking the area. A foundation repair expert should be contacted if any cracks, leaks, or bowing are discovered in the basement walls.

Ways To Reduce Water Damage

Check Your Roof Frequently

When it comes to roofs, especially flat roofs, regular inspections are crucial for catching issues early and fixing them quickly. Experts in the field recommend businesses get their roofs inspected at least twice yearly. Checking roof vents, and other potential water entry points is an integral part of any thorough inspection. The presence of water stains or fissures in a building's exterior or foundation should also be carefully assessed, since this can be an indication that water is either gathering there or entering the building through those points. All cracks and water stains need to be thoroughly inspected.

Check The Irrigation, Plumbing, And Drains Frequently.

Drain, plumbing, and irrigation system leaks are notoriously hard to spot, which is why regular inspections are crucial to preventative building maintenance. There should be no leak, no matter how small, thus it's necessary to check the plumbing and drainage systems regularly for problems. It is recommended to consult an expert in the field to discover a workable solution.

Maintain All Seals as Required

Since doors, windows, and walls are so prone to leaking, building managers should perform routine checks on all of the seals in these areas, as well as on the walls themselves. Water can pass through concrete since it is a porous substance. If there is no outward indication of water damage, it is still possible that moisture is making its way through the wall. Get in touch with a restoration company as soon as you notice water damage.

Keeping Your Basement Dry: What You Can Do

Dehumidifiers can help you get rid of the extra moisture in the air.

Put insulation on cold spots.

• Fix all the holes in the basement floor.
• The problems with the sump pump should be resolved.
• The pooling water needs to be dealt with immediately.
• Water should be kept away from the base of your house.
• Fix any leaking pipes or rain gutters and clean out the gutters.
• Rainwater should be channelled away from the structure's foundation by extending the length of the downspouts.
• Don't bring down anything that can be damaged by water. Even more so, you shouldn't dry your clothes there.
• Get rid of the mildew (you can do it by yourself if you're up to the challenge)!
• Consider the prospect that the water around the building is tainted and take the necessary steps to find out. Stagnant water and a foul odour could seep into your basement from hidden sewer pipes during a rainstorm.
• Inspect your basement carefully after every time it floods to be sure nothing has been damaged (and not just the obvious sort). Stress can be avoided in the long run if issues are discovered and resolved as soon as possible.

The first step in fixing a damp basement is figuring out what's making it moist. Where does the trouble start: outside your door or in your house? What or who is causing this dew point to drop?

The foil test is a simple and effective method for finding out.

To do this simple test, just attach strips of aluminium foil to the damp spots on your basement's walls and leave them there overnight. If condensation forms on the foil, it means the humidity level in your basement is fairly high. However, the moisture in the earth outside your basement walls can be blamed for condensation. This is clearly displayed on the foil's back. If your basement is damp, this points to a problem beyond your home.

A number of options, some of which are covered in the preceding list, are available for dealing with the moisture that is generated within the basement. If, on the other hand, the problems are caused by things outside your basement's walls, you'll need to waterproof the walls to prevent more moisture damage.

The expense of hiring a professional waterproofing company to handle this situation is considerable.

Waterproofing Your Basement

To remove the concrete from within 2 and a half feet of the basement walls, you will need to hire professionals to dig around the perimeter of your house. That is, of course, if you don't anticipate any difficulties with the exterior's waterproofing. Then, new weeping tiles will be installed when the area is excavated down to the footing.

It is planned to clean any dirt and debris off the walls that are buried above ground. The cracks will subsequently be patched with hydraulic cement after a layer of rubberized asphalt membrane has been placed twice. After that is done, new weeping tiles and a cloth filter that can be easily connected to the already present weeping tiles will be installed to keep water where it belongs. Once that's done, gravel will be spread over the area, and the rest of the space will be backfilled.

What do you get as a result? Now that you've decided to waterproof your basement, you can rest assured that it won't flood in the future. It will no longer be an impediment to your pleasure in the rain.

Conclusion

Despite being common, mildew damage can be alarming. Taking care of waterproofing issues promptly will help your property last for years without costly maintenance. Unfortunately, mildew means your home isn't as water-resistant as you'd like. Roofs, basements, and exterior walls often have inadequate waterproofing. In addition, the building's weight will weaken the foundation, exacerbating the situation.

Nonstructural cracks may suggest seepage. A professional inspection is recommended. Sump pumps are a type of suction pump used to drain water from a sump or other low location. Sump pump difficulties can be caused by mechanical failure, incorrect installation, or building mismatch. Internal waterproofing removes water or moisture from a building's exterior.

Plumbing sends internal water to a sump pump. Damp basements or walls are best waterproofed from the outside. Homeowners may do minor waterproofing and sealing. This portion of Canada has cold, dry winters, so the soil and minerals in the bricks expand when their water freezes. A sloping driveway or yard increases the likelihood of a moist basement.

Mould can create health problems, so fix water damage to your home immediately. If your home has any of these eight signs, call a waterproofer. Leaks and moisture problems might threaten your home's structure if not remedied. After a basement flood, ensure nothing was damaged (and not just the obvious sort).

Content Summary

• Imagine returning to your basement after being away for a few weeks and discovering a strange green growth along the walls.
• You have a healthy amount of disgust for the abandoned furniture before you even see it.
• Although mildew damage to furniture is frequent, it is unsettling to see it.
• The presence of mildew is only one indicator that your home's water resistance isn't as high as you would have thought.
• This is instead to stress how important it is to immediately fix any problems related to the waterproofing of your home or business.
• If there is one place you should never be concerned about your safety, it is in your own house.
• As an example, if you want your home to last for many years without any major repairs, you should take care of any waterproofing problems as soon as possible before they worsen.
• Roofs, cellars, and outside walls are the most common places to find a need for waterproofing.
• Your home is more at risk for damage in areas directly exposed to the elements.
• Water is the greatest threat to the structural integrity of a building's most important part, the foundation.
• Many different things can lead to cracks in a foundation wall, such as water seepage from the soil, improper building techniques, soil expansion, uneven ground, freeze-thaw weathering, and contraction, to name just a few.
• There may be an issue with the waterproofing if there are any cracks.
• If you discover any cracks in your walls, especially in the basement, you should have them checked out immediately.
• Numerous factors can lead to foundation wall cracks, such as poor craftsmanship, uneven terrain, freeze-thaw weathering, soil expansion and contraction, and water seepage from the soil, to name just a few.
• Nonstructural cracks may indicate water infiltration.
• The primary function of a sump pump is to remove excess water from a building's lowest point, typically the basement.
• Therefore, keeping up with the sump pump's maintenance is essential.
• Water damage to your home can also be caused by poor drainage, which becomes even more of an issue when it rains.
• Waterproofing the exterior of your walls, on the other hand, addresses the issue at its source.
• Waterproofing from the outside is your best bet if you have a damp basement or damp walls.
• You must use internal waterproofing if you can't seal the building's outside.
• In and of itself, this is an effective means of preventing roof leaks.
• Yet if you want to keep water from collecting on the roof, you'll need to build a slope that requires yet another layer.
• The use of suitable filler material for a roof can achieve this.
• Remove the dust and filth and patch the holes in the walls.
• Humidity and moisture can build up in a basement for many different reasons.
• Because of precipitation and melting snow, water has accumulated close to your house's walls and foundation.
• Whatever the case, you need to get a dehumidifier for the basement right away to prevent mould growth.
• Water damage to your home's structure is extensive, mould poses serious health issues that must be addressed immediately, and the possibility of more damage to your property is high.
• There should be no leak, no matter how small. Thus, regularly checking the plumbing and drainage systems for problems is necessary.
• Get in touch with a restoration company as soon as you notice water damage.
• The pooling water needs to be dealt with immediately.
• Water should be kept away from the base of your house.
• Fix any leaking pipes or rain gutters and clean out the gutters.
• Rainwater should be channelled away from the structure's foundation by extending the length of the downspouts.
• Consider the prospect that the water around the building is tainted and take the necessary steps to find out.
• The first step in fixing a damp basement is figuring out what's making it moist.
• If condensation forms on the foil, the humidity level in your basement is fairly high.
• However, the moisture in the earth outside your basement walls can be blamed for condensation.
• Some options covered in the preceding list are available for dealing with the moisture generated within the basement.
• The expense of hiring a professional waterproofing company to handle this situation is considerable.
• To remove the concrete from within two and a half feet of the basement walls, you will need to hire professionals to dig around the perimeter of your house.
• Then, new weeping tiles will be installed when the area is excavated down to the footing.
• Now that you've decided to waterproof your basement, you can rest assured that it won't flood in the future.