Requests to read carefully: -
Waterproofing is a basic requirement for all types of structures irrespective of the fact whether they are residential, commercial or industrial buildings.The simplest definition of waterproofing is to:-
Keep the unwanted water out of dry living areas (living rooms, basements, bedrooms, terraces, walls, etc.) and Keep the water inside the wet areas (bathrooms, kitchens, water tanks, swimming pools, sanitary areas, etc.
In fact the word waterproofing should be used with limitations as it is practically not possible to remove all water out of concrete and it is advisable to have some quantities of water in the concrete for continued hydration in one form or other. In fact most of the cases of waterproofing we refer to are of damp proofing.
Implications of Water Entering the Living Areas:-
Importance of Waterproofing:-
It is essential to note that the passage of water through the structure not only results in peeling of plaster or paints but it has wider implications. The passage of water through concrete leads to corrosion of the embedded reinforcement leading to the structural failures. In addition, the water can carry with it chlorides and sulphates accelerating the deterioration.The ingress of water in the water tanks, etc. can give rise to health hazards on account of microbial pollutions.The dampness can decay the wood in the buildings.Lack of waterproofing or improper treatments not only pose health hazards, but also have a lasting implication on the durability, structural stability and sustainability of the constructed structures. An early treatment will not only provide longevity to the structures but will also save the financial resources.
The Steps:-
Basically there are two types of waterproofing depending upon the time of application, i.e., either new waterproofing or repairs of old waterproofing. Once again the treatments can be carried out at two stages, i.e., while concreting by use of integral waterproofing compounds or surface coatings after the concrete is hardened. All waterproofing treatments should consider knowing the client’s requirements, investigation, diagnosis, design and specifications for waterproofing system, selection of materials, application, supervision and maintenance. These stages are important and negligence at any step mentioned above can lead to the failure of the waterproofing treatment.
Most of the failures are due to the combination in errors at different stages. In all the above stages the human factor is involved and therefore it would be worthwhile to have third party supervision to ensure proper application of the materials in conformity with the specification laid down.
Underground Basement Detailing:-
While making the specifications, the properties of materials should be given due weightage and alternatives should be provided for encouraging the use of materials of new technology. The final evaluation of contractor should not only depend upon the lowest quotation but also factors like expertise, technical ability and integrity of the contractor.
The Materials and Detailing:-
When any concrete structure is constructed, we are certain about the materials of construction, viz., cement, aggregates, sand, water and the reinforcement. But when it comes to the waterproofing, there are several materials from which the choice is to be made. This is due to the fact that the process of waterproofing is quite complicated and the system of waterproofing has to withstand different parameters, which differ from case to case. It is evident that the waterproofing system cannot be better than the materials used.
While selecting the materials for waterproofing systems one has to consider several conditions at the site jointly and individually. The materials for waterproofing in effect should have properties like water-tightness, flexibility, crack-bridging ability, bonding strength, breathability, resistance to UV radiations, microbial attacks, fungus growth, mechanical stresses, insulation characteristics and above all the cost effectiveness.
However, it is clear that it is quite difficult to have all the above properties in one material and therefore a judicious combination of materials has to be used to suit individual requirements. Faced with several proprietary formulations the engineer may get confused, but one should exercise caution before final selection.The selection will be easier if the decision maker knows the limitations rather than the advantages, of individual materials. Some of these materials and their properties are discussed in this section.
Conclusion:-
Concrete structures are popular on account of their economy. The economy is derived from the long life considerations that are of the durability. It has been proved beyond doubt that the durability is a direct function of permeability of concrete. The aim of waterproofing or dampproofing should be to prevent or retard the ingress of water into the body of concrete, so that the structure remains safe from deteriorating influences.
Before assigning the job of waterproofing to any party, the engineer concerned or the homeowner should establish the parameters and the reasons for such waterproofing. It should be clearly understood that the cost of waterproofing is not only the initial capital cost but also recurring maintenance cost. It is a myth that waterproofing or dampproofing systems are permanent and maintenance free.
A waterproofing system should be chosen, in which the maintenance costs even after warranty period are of minor nature.
Waterproofing requires sound knowledge of civil engineering as well as chemistry. Therefore the advice of an expert is always beneficial. It is only through timely and proper waterproofing the house owner can be assured that the property is protected and shall withstand all the conditions up to the designed life. Quality waterproofing assures the durability of the structures.
