Everything There Is to Know About Commercial Waterproofing
When building or maintaining a commercial property, waterproofing should be one of your top priorities. Without the proper seals and caulking, your hard work could experience water damage that can lead to even larger problems like dry rot and mold.
But where do you start? We’re here to help you navigate the world of commercial waterproofing so you can keep your property secure for years to come.
What is Below Grade Commercial Waterproofing
While waterproofing your entire commercial build is essential, it’s important to start at the foundation. According to Waterproof Magazine, below grade waterproofing is the waterproofing applied below ground level that comes into contact with a building or structure. More specifically, commercial waterproofing of this nature involves treating a surface or structure to prevent the passage of water under hydrostatic pressure.
By using waterproofing sealants, caulking, and membranes, you can protect your commercial build from water damage and ensure the underground portion of the structure functions as it should.
Benefits of Below Grade Waterproofing
As you can imagine, without below grade waterproofing, the foundation of a commercial or industrial facility can be easily damaged by water and have a negative impact on the integrity of the entire building. That’s why the main benefit of waterproofing is to prevent this damage from happening at all.
Deterring water damage also means reducing the amount needed to make repairs, which can be incredibly costly. Dry rot, mold, and the other negative effects of leaks can be difficult to discover. However, the longer they exist the more it will cost to make repairs. Commercial waterproofing not only protects facilities from damage by deterring leaks but also saves property owners dollars in the long run that they would otherwise have to spend on fixing water destruction.
Preventative vs Reactive Waterproofing
When it comes to commercial waterproofing, you are likely considering taking preventative or reactive measures that dictate the kind of solution you need. The former usually happens during a build since waterproofing the foundation is a natural step in the construction process. During this phase, you should have a good understanding of the job site itself. A geotechnical report, for example, can be helpful in understanding the soil and the waterproofing solutions that will work best in it.
Of course, even the strongest below grade waterproofing system can begin to leak or wear down over time. In this case, reactive measures must be taken to patch the problem and strengthen the area once again.
No matter the solution you need, you will have to choose from a number of different products to get the job done. From blind side and cold applied membranes to hot rubberized asphalt and self-adhered flashings, what works best for the commercial build comes down to the structure, its surroundings, and an existing waterproofing system if applicable.
Need waterproofing solutions for your next commercial build? Garvin Construction Products has a wide selection of below grade waterproofing products for all of your needs.
Sources
https://garvinproducts.com/products/below-grade-weatherproofing/
