What is building waterproofing?

Waterproofing is one of the basic processes of construction, complete or partial renovation of a building. Thanks to it, the entry of water into the architectural structure is prevented. This eliminates humidity and all the inconveniences it implies, both for health and architectural aesthetics.

What does waterproofing and waterproofing material mean?

This is the process by which it is ensured that water does not seep through the walls, ceilings, and floors of any type of building. Likewise, it involves ensuring that there are no liquid leaks from tanks, conduits, and pipelines.

When constructing or renovating a space, this is an unavoidable step. In fact, when water runs through a construction in an undesirable way, it can damage materials, generate harmful humidity for health, and produce bad odors. These are often the main problems faced by many buildings, especially the older ones. On the other hand, the waterproofing material is the material used to eliminate water seepage through walls, ceilings, and floors. It is applied to a surface in such a way that prevents the passage of water.

How is waterproofing done?

The main goal in these cases is to create a barrier to prevent the passage of humidity or water. For this purpose, there are various ways to carry out the process. It all depends on the building to be waterproofed and its characteristics, both inherent and environmental. Here are some of the techniques used:

• Covering the area to be waterproofed with concrete or mortar.
• Using colorless sealers.
• Also using paints that prevent the passage of water. Among the options are silicate paint or waterproof plastic paints.

Types of waterproofing and products used

The types of waterproofing are mainly rigid and flexible. Regarding the products, there are acrylic, asphaltic, or cementitious waterproofing materials. These should be complemented with prefabricated, fibrous, ecological, and elastomeric options. Furthermore, acritone is a highly recommended waterproofing material for roofs or terraces, as it reflects sunlight.

Additionally, there are membranes that are installed to prevent the passage of water. They can be liquid or polyurethane.

Is it the same as insulation?

When waterproofing a space, it is being insulated from water. However, one is not exactly the same as the other. Insulation is a much broader concept that can involve thermal, acoustic, or electrical insulation.

All are important, and when carried out correctly, they increase well-being and quality of life.

Moreover, when combined with good controlled mechanical ventilation systems they offer optimal levels of energy efficiency. Thus, in the case of thermal insulation, constant temperature spaces are achieved on one hand, and high-quality indoor air on the other.

Acoustic and electrical insulations are also often implemented. The first prevents disturbances from external noises, while the second protects against the adverse effects of electricity. Thermal insulation, furthermore, achieves significant savings on electricity consumption in the constructions where it is applied. Likewise, it allows for the reduction or elimination of air conditioning systems, which can be replaced with other controlled natural mechanical ventilation systems.

Thus, waterproofing is an essential part of the construction or renovation process. It cannot be overlooked due to the advantages it brings, and because, if omitted, the building runs the risk of suffering from humidity, bad smells, or rapid deterioration. If you found this article interesting, we recommend taking a look at this other one: Which technicians are in charge of each phase of a ventilation project?