Nashville, TN – Common Methods of Waterproofing

Chances are you already know the various reasons for waterproofing your home and what areas are generally waterproofed, but at Barrier Water Systems, we like to be thorough!

Obviously waterproofing and creating water barriers are done to keep water in or out of a space where it can otherwise escape or enter. These areas can be susceptible to damage, should water enter. Areas like bathrooms, roofs, walls, basements, etc. can grow mold, bacteria, and like we said, be overall susceptible to water damage!

Now that we are done covering the more trivial details, let’s get on to the good stuff! Depending on the type of waterproofing system you want, both its affordability and the type of area you live in will determine which waterproofing method will be the best option for you and your family. The following types of waterproofing are the most common that you might come across while searching for the solution your family home needs.

The first and easiest method: Cementing

With this technique, a moisture block is applied to prevent water damage. If those areas need repairing, then that is done beforehand. The moisture block is used to restrict further water from entering or leaving the area through the concrete. Usually the blocks are applied in multiple coats, depending on the extent of the damage.

This method is usually going to be used with wet interior areas. Other common areas this waterproofing system might be used in are public or outdoor structures such as: water treatment plants, sewage treatment plants, bridges, dams, railway & subway systems, marine cargo ports & docks, river locks/channels & concrete dykes, parking structures & lots.

Sheet membrane Waterproofing

Another common waterproofing technique used is a sheet membrane method. This a method in which bonded sheets are put together and used to get rid of damages caused by leaks. These sheets are of consistent thickness and have very strong adhesive properties that give excellent protection against leakage and water accumulation. Most typically, this membrane is used in below-grade walls.

Liquid membrane waterproofing

Leaks on balconies are usually repaired using this technique when the sheet membrane waterproofing cannot otherwise be used. It provides great protection against damages caused by water leakage and moisture buildup. This method consists of a primer coat and two top coats that can be applied by various means. Your basically smearing, spraying, or splotching a rubber coating, which detours the moisture from touching the surface. This form of waterproofing is much more versatile for use in a variety of applications.

Bentonite Waterproofing

Some methods, like sodium bentonite clay, help absorb the moisture, rather than detour it. This is also a method to help resolve leaking balconies. Along with removing water that is already present in a structure, bentonite waterproofing reduces the chance of further dampening. Using bentonite around basement walls proves successful for preventing water intrusion.

Bituminous waterproofing

This is usually an option for low sloped roofs. They have a torch on membrane and self-adhesive membrane.

These are some of the most common options amidst the many ways to waterproofing residential and/or commercial areas. If you are unable to put a cap on your water seepage problem in the Middle Tennessee area and need help, feel free to give us a call for a consultation today at Barrier Water Systems.