What is waterproofing in construction?
Waterproofing in buildings refers to the creation of an impervious water barrier over the surfaces of foundations, walls, roofs, and other structural members to prevent water penetration into these concrete surfaces. Waterproofing in Kenya is a necessity for the basement, walls, bathrooms, kitchens, roofs, swimming pools balconies, water tanks, etc.
Advances in waterproofing materials and technologies have revolutionized the construction industry with their ease of use, durability, and ease of maintenance.to ensure moisture is controlled at an early stage, waterproofing measures are applied during construction, as well as after the building has been completed.
Methods of waterproofing in Kenya
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Cementitious waterproofing
This is the most common and easiest method of waterproofing since the materials are readily available and are also easy to apply. This method is applied in the internal wet areas like bathrooms and toilets.
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Bituminous coating waterproofing
Also known as the asphalt coating method is made using bitumen-based materials which form a protective coating against water. This is caused by the polymer grade and reinforcement fiber. It is applied under screed wet on surfaces like concrete foundations.
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Liquid waterproofing membrane
This waterproofing method is applied by spraying, roller, or trowel. It consists of a primer coat and two top coats. The liquid offers more flexibility than other waterproofing methods because it is thin. The durability of the coating depends on the polymer used.
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Bituminous membrane waterproofing
This waterproofing method has a torch on the layer and a self-adhesive membrane. Due to their proven performance, this waterproofing method is commonly used in flat roofs. The self-adhesive membrane however has a lower service life since the bonding strength of the membrane reduces as time goes by.
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Polyurethane liquid membrane waterproofing
The polyurethane liquid offers more flexibility but is very sensitive to moisture. This waterproofing method is quite expensive and is mostly used on flat roofs and exposed to weathering. It is important to carefully check the moisture content of the slab before application to prevent debonding and peeling of the membrane.
Importance of waterproofing in Kenya
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Keeps the building free from moisture
Waterproofing is important to keep the building dry and free from moisture.
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Reduces humidity
Waterproofing your residential building is important because it reduces the internal humidity and protects items inside the house from damage as a result of water.
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Prevents rusting
Waterproofing prevents rusting of metals and the decaying of wooden furniture.
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Safeguards the building
Waterproofing safeguards the structural integrity of the entire building.
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Prevents seepage
Waterproofing prevents water seepage from the ceilings and walls.
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Saves cost
Waterproofing prevents unnecessary costs, repairing a building damaged by water has proven to be very expensive.
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Reduces risks
Waterproofing reduces risks to human health, building value, structural problems, and damage to property.
Conclusion
The ultimate goal of waterproofing in kenya is to prevent water from entering the building because water damage causes a lot of problems including moulds, undermining foundations, and making the general conditions of the building unsafe.to avoid all these unnecessary problems, It is therefore vital to adequately waterproof your residential building.
