Many people think damp proofing and waterproofing are the same things, but they are actually distinctly different things designed to provide two different types of moisture control and protection. Here's a brief overview of each kind to help you determine which service works best for the problem you want to solve.
Damp Proof to Prevent Moisture Intrusion from Soil
Despite the fact that concrete—the most common type of material used for building foundations—is fairly sturdy, it can be damaged by water. Since soil naturally contains quite a bit of moisture, it's critical to put a barrier between it and the foundation to prevent the natural erosion of the concrete that would occur over time.
This is where damp proofing comes in. This process involves coating the exterior of the foundation with a sealant that will keep moisture from permeating the foundation. In some cases, the sealant is mixed in with the concrete to make the material itself moisture-resistant, but the outcome is the same.
Since the sealant is applied to the exterior wall of the foundation, it's best done when that part of the building is first constructed. While it can also be done any time after the building has been erected, the expense to do so is considerable because it will involve excavating the ground around the property so workers can get to the foundation.
However, if the soil in your area has changed or you're otherwise concerned your foundation may need damp proofing, contact a local contractor for advice on the best way to handle this issue.
Waterproof to Fix Seeping and Leaking Issues
It should be noted that most building foundations already have some type of damp proofing. So, if you find the basement level of your home or office is constantly wet, then the problem may be there are microcracks in the concrete letting in water.
In this situation, waterproofing your basement is typically the best option. Waterproof involves applying a heavy-duty sealant to the inside walls of the foundation to seal cracks and stop moisture from passing through. Because the interior walls are easier to access, this procedure is generally cheaper and faster than damp proofing.
However, waterproofing may require other things besides sealing the concrete. The property may require landscape grading to redirect rainwater or the foundation itself may need to have weep holes drilled in it to drain water to a safer location. It's best to contact a knowledgeable contractor who can diagnose what your building needs and work with you to achieve the best outcome at an affordable price.
For more information about waterproofing services, contact a local company like Central Penn Waterproofing.
Share19 May 2022
When something you own and love is damaged, it is easy to shrug and decide that item will never be the same again. Sometimes, you might be correct in this assumption. But if you really like the item and would like to keep using it, there is usually the option to repair it. Damage repair contractors can do incredible work, often with items and materials that the average person might assume were beyond being able to be repaired. We won't claim to be damage contractors, but we do wish to raise awareness of their work on this blog. When something you love is damaged, we want you to know you have options.