After the earthquake, sometimes we located that the internal cracks occurred inside the room. Why ? What's the solution to prevent or repair the cracks ?
Earthquakes can cause internal cracks in rooms due to:-
Structural movement:-
Buildings shift during earthquakes, causing walls and ceilings to crack.
Foundation settlement:-
The foundation might settle unevenly, leading to cracks.
Poor construction or materials:-
Weak points in the structure can lead to cracks.
To prevent or repair cracks:-
Get a structural audit:-
Assess the building’s integrity and identify weak points.
Fill cracks with suitable materials:-
Use epoxy injections or polyurethane-based fillers for hairline cracks. For wider cracks, use cement-based grouts or mortars.
Strengthen the structure:-
Consider retrofitting with seismic-resistant techniques like column jacketing or bracing.
Regular maintenance:-
Inspect and maintain your building regularly to catch issues early.
For internal cracks, we can also:-
Use crack fillers:-
Products like Acrylic or Polyurethane-based fillers work well for non-structural cracks.
Consult an expert:-
A structural engineer or expert can assess and guide repairs.
Is it harmful to structure?
Depends on the crack type and location. If it’s:-
Hairline cracks (<1mm):-
Usually not a major concern, but can indicate underlying issues.
Wider cracks (>1mm):-
Can compromise structural integrity, especially if they’re:-
– Diagonal or stepped
– Near joints or corners
– Accompanied by other damage
Best to get a Structural Engineer to check it out.
As per the technical aspects, if we find that a Roof Waterproofing Treatment can be done for pretty long years good effect with Acrylic Polymer, including 45gsm Glass Fiber mesh, then is it necessary to put their polyurethane or polyurea ? Have to look after the commercial viability.
Acrylic polymer with 45gsm Glass Fiber mesh is a solid waterproofing combo.
Adding Polyurethane or Polyurea can enhance durability and flexibility, but it depends on factors like:-
Climate and exposure:-
Kolkata’s humid climate might benefit from added protection.
Traffic and usage:-
If it’s a rooftop terrace or high-traffic area, polyurethane/polyurea can boost resilience.
Budget and expectations:-
Polyurethane/polyurea add cost, so weigh the benefits against your budget.
Generally:-
Acrylic + Glass Fiber mesh:-
Good for moderate conditions, cost-effective.
Polyurethane/Polyurea:-
Better for harsh conditions, high traffic, or longer lifespan (10-15 years+).
For Technical and commercial viability in Kolkata, Acrylic Polymer with Glass Fiber mesh is a popular choice, but if we want extra assurance and longer lifespan, polyurethane/polyurea might be worth considering.
Most of the customers think that wall putty, paint, ceramic tiles, and stone fixing in the internal wall can solve the problem of damp.
That’s a common misconception. While Wall putty, Paint, Ceramic tiles, and Stone fixing can improve aesthetics, they might not address the root cause of dampness. Without fixing underlying issues like moisture ingress, structural problems, or poor drainage, damp can persist, causing damage and health concerns.
Wall putty and Paint are just surface-level fixes. They won’t stop water ingress or fix structural issues causing dampness. Ceramic tiles and stone fixing can even trap moisture, making things worse if not done right. Best to identify and address the root cause – like fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or treating walls with waterproofing – then go for the aesthetic finishes.
Waterproofing and Damp proofing Treatment sounds very easy. But in the practical field, it is a too much tough process.
Waterproofing and Damp proofing sound simple in theory, but in practice, it’s a whole different ball game. Surface prep, choosing the right products, application techniques – it all matters. Plus, identifying the root cause and ensuring long-term effectiveness can be challenging. Practical experience is key.
If we avoid or not use the proper construction chemicals for Waterproofing and Damp proofing treatment from the beginning of a new building construction, then ?
If we skip proper Waterproofing and Damp proofing treatment in new building construction, we might face:-
Structural damage:-
Water seepage can weaken foundations, walls, and floors, leading to cracks and collapses.
Mold and milfection:-
Damp environments foster mold growth, compromising air quality and health.
Costly repairs:-
Fixing issues later can be way more expensive than prevention.
Reduced lifespan:-
Neglecting waterproofing can shorten your building’s lifespan.
