Protect your property from water with professional waterproofing

By Nick Post, KPost. 

Trust the professionals for waterproofing concrete structures and see the difference it will make for your property.   

Concrete is one of the most durable and sustainable materials in modern construction. It is often the most pragmatic option because it is strong and versatile, and it can be used on a wide range of structures. Like any other material, concrete will wear down over time, especially due to weather. Constant exposure to water can cause a considerable decrease in the concrete’s lifespan. Water erodes the outer layer of concrete and seeps into the cracks. The foundational integrity of a building is then at risk. While water is useful during the production and placement of concrete, it is crucial to avoid it once the structure is complete. KPost Roofing & Waterproofing has prepared a comprehensive list of reasons why hiring a professional to waterproof a concrete roof is worth the investment.  

Waterproofing is the best way to protect your concrete structure. This process uses chemical treatments or structural techniques to create an impervious barrier that shields your concrete from cracking as it hardens. It is an important step to prevent damp basements, leaky walls or foundational cracks that can damage a building. While it may feel tempting to tackle waterproofing yourself, reaching out to an expert is the best way to save time and money in the long run.  

What is concrete waterproofing? 

Concrete waterproofing is a preventative method to correct vulnerabilities inherent in this construction material. While the benefits of concrete far exceed any weaknesses, the composition of this material makes it especially susceptible to problems with moisture. Concrete is a composite mixture of water, cement and sand or gravel known as aggregate. These ingredients combine to form a thick mass that builders can pour to create concrete structures. Concrete becomes strong and rock-like as it dries, but it also forms a porous surface layer. Unfortunately, this porosity means that concrete can absorb too much water even if a building needs to remain dry. According to the American Concrete Institute, surface moisture intrusion is the number-one source of concrete damage, corrosion or stains. 

Professionals use a variety of waterproofing techniques to address the high porosity of concrete. For example, they can apply industrial-strength sealants to block large pores and prevent absorption of water. They can apply an impermeable layer of coating to prevent the passage of moisture. Other methods include waterproof membranes or surface encapsulation. A professional can assess your property and determine which technique works best for your needs. 

Why should you hire a professional waterproofing contractor? 

It is always best to work with a professional contractor instead of tackling the stress of waterproofing concrete on your own. The benefits of hiring a professional include quality and expertise, access to the latest technology, skilled assessment and inspection, time and cost savings and enhanced property value. 

Experience and expertise 

Professional contractors bring irreplaceable experience and specialized expertise to waterproofing services. They can identify the root cause of excessive moisture exposure and understand the nuances of problem areas like foundations, expansion joints or concrete walls. Waterproofing is all about protecting the structural integrity of your building or property. Therefore, it is best to entrust your investment with an expert who can fix issues before they worsen into more serious problems. Instead of just covering up surface-layer symptoms, experts have the training necessary to fully shield your property from unwanted moisture or water damage. 

Tools and the latest technology 

Trained professionals also have access to the latest waterproofing technology. These tools and technological advances are often industrial-grade and only available to businesses or wholesale buyers. Instead of going to a hardware store and hoping to find a sealant labeled for retail sale, enlist the help of a professional who already has quality supplies on hand. In addition, a contractor has the equipment necessary to implement the new technology in the most efficient and cost-effective way. 

Professional assessment and inspection 

Before starting any waterproofing treatment, most contractors conduct a thorough inspection or survey of the concrete structure. This process may include visual assessments, moisture or humidity testing and physical measurements. In this way, the professional can identify the source of possible water intrusion as well as pinpoint vulnerable areas that need extra attention. By working with an expert, you can proceed with confidence without the risk of undetected problem zones in your concrete. 

Time and cost savings 

Trying to waterproof concrete yourself is a labor-intensive, time-consuming and expensive undertaking. Without advanced equipment or experience, you may end up spending more time and money than you originally anticipated. And if something goes wrong, the cost of correcting errors can quickly cancel out any money you attempted to save from trying to complete the project alone. A professional has the best quality control workflow in place to eliminate hassle and complete the job correctly the first time. 

Compliance with local laws and codes 

Compliance with local, state and federal building codes and regulations remains one of the most important reasons to hire a professional contractor. By attempting to waterproof concrete without knowledge of the rules, you can unwittingly violate laws on the books. This can result in costly fines and consequences. Since many of these codes exist for safety reasons, lack of compliance could unknowingly put building occupants at risk. By working with a professional contractor, you can avoid the dangers and penalties associated with non-compliance. Since regulations can change as often as annually, hiring a professional can give you peace of mind that you are up to date with the latest rules for your type of property. 

Comprehensive solutions 

Waterproofing concrete is much more than patching up your flooring or structure and then hoping for the best. Since every property is unique with its own building history and intended usage, it is important to consult with a professional for a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs. For example, a small residential building may need basement waterproofing, deck sealing or foundational repair. However, commercial properties may need waterproofing in the concrete areas of their parking lots, storage warehouses or retail spaces. No matter the need, a professional can develop a customized plan of action that is right for you. 

Protection against mold and mildew 

Excessive moisture can lead to the growth of mold, algae or mildew. As mold spores travel through the air and settle on surfaces, they can cause problems for building occupants that range from allergies to serious respiratory illnesses. Professional contractors can evaluate the status of water intrusion and develop a waterproofing plan that encourages dry and well-ventilated rooms. 

Enhanced property value 

Professional waterproofing may increase the value of your property. If you plan to sell your space in the future, buyers and assessors can appreciate quality waterproofing that conserves the structural integrity of the building. This could mean demonstrating a solid foundation, a dry and well-maintained basement or walls that are free of corrosion or water stains. Expert waterproofing also makes your property an easier sell when it is time to put it on the market. 

Original article source: KPost Company