How Long Does Waterproofing Last?

Wondering how long does waterproofing last? A professionally installed high-quality waterproofing should last at least 10 years. Whether it lasts a shorter or longer time will depend on the quality of the workmanship and the type of waterproofing materials used.

Experts show that a lack of or faulty waterproofing membrane is the most common defect found in properties. Insurance companies will tell you they are one of the most commonly cited reasons for claims for damage.

Therefore, understanding exactly how waterproofing systems work and how long they last are important to the integrity of your home.

The importance of workmanship

Different tradespeople employ a variety of techniques for waterproofing. For example, bathroom showers are one of the most important parts of your home to waterproof. They need to withstand massive amounts of moisture and heavy downpours.

Someone who understands the importance of waterproofing will always focus on the weakest point of the room. These are usually joints or protrusions somewhere where vertical and horizontal surfaces meet.

Anywhere where a singular unbroken material surface ends and connects with another will leave a natural Gap. These gaps are extremely vulnerable to water penetration and need to be sealed correctly.

When waterproofing you need to pay attention to the following areas :

• The point where your floor and showers walls meet.
• Any clear protrusions like roofing vents
• Any point in your wall or ceiling where pipes enter
• The corners of your bathroom are also subject to water damage

The importance of drainage and fall to waterproofing

Regardless of the quality of waterproofing materials you use they cannot withstand consistent pressure from water and therefore the design of the fall in your bathrooms and other areas where water will be present is vital to any waterproofing system

Fall describes how your flooring design helps guide access water away from surfaces and safely to drainage points. I will design a fall uncomfortably to allow water to flow along a designated path with no fear of escaping.

Poorly designed for sloppy workmanship will cause water not guided efficiently off your floor. Longer water lingers on the surface the more time it has to compromise its waterproof membrane.

After you design the fall of the floor, you need to ensure that it can effectively drain. Unless work and escape from your surface, it’ll constantly remain under pressure and eventually any waterproof seal will break.

The quality of indoor drain you choose is important as it will be subject to waste litter hair and other debris that can quickly clog it

Choosing the Correct Waterproof Membranes

Installing a waterproof membrane is the most professional solution to prevent seepage or leakage from any areas of high water usage. There are two professional waterproofing systems available that can be easily applied

Sheet based waterproof membranes

As their name shows, these waterproof membranes composed of sheets, manufactured to specific dimensions or sold in a roll form these are quickly and easily deployed to waterproof any intended surface. This is the cleanest, easiest, but less effictive system to use.

Liquid waterproofing membranes

These membranes come in liquid form, making them extremely flexible as you’re not restricted to size and applied in a variety of different situations.

By far the most popular option as your waterproofing contractor can either spray or apply this membrane using roller brushes. The toughest part of the process is to spread an even layer, but with enough knowledge or expertise applying liquid waterproof membranes is the most efficient way to lay down waterproofing.

It’s important to reiterate that the installation of a durable waterproofing system will primarily be down to the quality of the workmanship involved. Your contractor will need to understand how to combine waterproofing materials with the physics of drainage and fall.

To ensure this happens, we recommend only working with a trusted and well-established repainting our waterproofing contractor. One that has been an operation for many years and can provide you with a series of testimonials and reviews from previous customers.

How Long Does Waterproofing Last? – Conclusion

High-quality waterproofing contractors are specialists in resolving, analyzing, and identifying any waterproofing problem. They should be able to provide you with a solution based on the use of high-quality waterproofing materials and membranes that best suit your home or building.