Floors are essential elements of any building. They may be subject to the traffic of people, vehicles, movement of machinery and equipment, weather conditions such as sun and rain and, therefore, they also end up suffering from abrasion, wear, and deterioration overtime during the use phase. All concrete is, to some extent, porous.
When walls, floors, and roofs formed by this material are exposed to frequent rain and moisture from the soil, the risks of infiltration are even more significant. A technique capable of preventing this problem is the waterproofing of concrete, but it is often ignored by the technical professionals of the work or done incorrectly. In this article, we will present some important details of this procedure. Check it out below.
Regularizing the surface for waterproofing concrete floors.
Performing waterproofing during construction is more advantageous and economical than performing it after complications start to appear. However, if the surface you want to waterproof already has imperfections, such as cracks and cracks, they must be filled with acrylic sealants for the finishing to be carried out next. In the case of floors, remember to foresee a slope of at least 1% to ensure an adequate flow of water.
It is also indicated to smooth rough and uneven surfaces so that they are uniform, thus optimizing the adhesion of the waterproof grout sealer. Another fundamental action is to clean the concrete thoroughly before waterproofing it.
It must be free of dust, sand, oil residues, grease, release agent, and any other type of dirt. To do this, use a sturdy bristle brush, a little trisodium phosphate, and water, letting the surface dry for a while before starting waterproofing.
Applying the waterproofing
Liquid membranes are easy to apply and cost-effective and effectively prevent the unwanted action of water. They can be sprayed, rolled directly on concrete, or spread with a trowel or brush.
To be sure which method is most suitable for the surface you want to protect, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. And don’t forget to wear the necessary personal protective equipment, such as boots, gloves, safety glasses, and masks. Waterproofing concrete floors is essential for the maintenance of a property, preventing water from accumulating under the floor, causing significant damage, including the foundation of your home.
A good tip is to wet the surface with water before applying the waterproof grout sealer. The first coat can be used horizontally and the second, vertically, provided that all layers are well uniform. Also, observe the curing time of the product.
Besides, it is essential to know for sure which surfaces need to be waterproofed. Walls in poorly ventilated places with little exposure to the sun may need this technique, as well as external walls and roofs subject to constant rain. Buildings below ground level and basements tend to be more humid and also deserve special attention.
The waterproofing of the concrete increases the service life of structures and can avoid a lot of problems. Tell us in the comments if you ever needed to waterproof any surface.