What is concrete waterproofing?
Although concrete seems absolutely solid, when it hardens the materials actually separate ever so slightly, forming tiny airways within the concrete. These airways are referred to as pores, meaning that the concrete can be described as porous, just like a sponge.
The hardened concrete has essentially become one giant, hard sponge! As we know, nothing wreaks havoc on a structure quite like damp, and once water gets into your concrete it is there to stay, and usually to accumulate over time.
Concrete waterproofing is also often referred to as cementitious waterproofing, but the two terms refer to the same process. Getting your concrete waterproofed by a reliable contractor means ensuring it will remain water free for as long as you need it to stand.
How is it done?
Concrete waterproofing involves applying a thin layer of highly protective film over the concrete. This is a process that requires experience and skill to apply the perfect thickness, as if it is too thin to will not fully waterproof the concrete, and if it is slightly too thick it will not set properly, but can be extremely difficult to remove. Once this correctly applied layer has been allowed to set, your concrete will be entirely safe from all water.
Why you need it and how it will benefit you
If you want your concrete structures to last, you need to seriously consider concrete waterproofing. Perhaps the most detrimental case of water damage to concrete is in the foundations of a house. Because this underground concrete is usually in contact with ground water, the pores easily become saturated, weakening the structure from an early stage.
Within a few years, or in extreme cases months, the entire structure will begin to show signs of the weakened foundation. The earliest warnings are sudden cracks in walls caused by movement in the foundations. Many quickly built new structures these days begin to show these signs relatively fast, as contractors try to skip important steps such as waterproofing to get projects completed faster. A properly waterproofed foundation will add strength and years to your home.
Another common problem caused by concrete that hasn’t been waterproofed is when tile or linoleum flooring is placed on top of it. As the concrete becomes saturated, these expensive floorings can begin to lift or warp, causing a very costly and inconvenient problem in your home.
To save yourself the cost and headache of these very serious problems, contact TT Waterproofing today to discuss your concrete waterproofing needs.
Areas We Service
Pretoria | Midrand | Centurion | Johannesburg | Sandton | Morningside | Fourways | North Riding | Randburg | Roodepoort | Lonehill | Kyalami | Parkview | Parktown | Bedfordview | Boksburg | Germiston | Benoni | Edenvale | Alberton | Northcliff | Rangeview | Krugersdorp | Rand Park Ridge | Lenasia | Kempton Park | Vanderbijlpark | Vereeniging | Hartbeespoortdam | Witbank | Middelburg | Springs | Carletonville | Klerksdorp | Rustenburg | Potchefstroom | Nelspruit | Nigel | Pietersburg | Polokwane | Zebula | Mabula
Other services we provide: Damp Proofing | Shower Waterproofing | Roof Repairs