One of the key measures to make a new construction project watertight is to have the roof and windows installed. However, there is often more to making a building ready for the next stage of its construction than simply fitting these elements. Modern buildings, especially those with flat roofs, can use a variety of methods to make them rainproof. Read on to discover the leading techniques used in the modern construction industry where waterproofing is required.
Rigid Waterproofing
This is a method of making walls watertight. Often required when you are digging into the ground or where part of the building is sitting against the slope of a hill, rigid waterproofing often means installing a stiff sheet against the outer layer of retaining concrete. Firstly, builders use a dense concrete to minimise water ingress from walls, such as shotcrete, which is commonly sprayed into position. Against this, rigid sections of metal or plastic are mounted to keep back moisture and make the internal area watertight.
Lined Waterproofing
This type of waterproof material is supplied on rolls. It can be used for flat roofs, cellar floors and internal walls. The lining protects the interior by creating an impermeable barrier that prevents moisture from being 'sucked' in via osmosis. In some situations, a material as simple as roofing felt can be put this use.
Damp Proof Courses
In walls that have been constructed from bricks, it is essential to prevent rising damp from causing a problem down the line. Outwardly facing brickwork can get splashed easily when it is close to the ground and attract water from the earth beneath. In such cases, a damp proof course should be installed to limit the amount of water that can work its way up a wall in the form of rising damp.
Painted Waterproofing
A waterproof coat is often used nowadays, especially on flat roofs made from a continuous section of material, such as cast concrete. A watertight layer is generated by brushing the surface with a liquid such as waterproof paint, varnish or bitumen. Contemporary waterproof paints and varnishes have synthetic resins and plastics in them which harden when installed to create a total barrier against moisture.
Injection Waterproofing
Ideal for cavity walls, injected waterproof material tends to be made from polyurethane or an epoxy resin. Installed in the form of a solution, they are simply pumped into a wall under high pressure, creating a watertight membrane minutes afterwards.
There are still many people do not believe that women should be involved in DIY or construction jobs. My blog is here to prove them all wrong. My name is Connie and I have always been interested in construction and repair work around my home. Rather than just sitting back and letting someone else take care of the problem, I like to get stuck in so I can try and learn something. However, sometimes there are jobs I cannot do on my own. However, when I call in a contractor, I always take the time to chat with them so I can pick up a tip or trick which will help me in the future. I hope you like the articles on my blog.