When masonry walls decay, they can lose their ability to repel water fast. When masonry loses its waterproofing, rising damp and penetrative damp may start to damage your property immediately.

Ensuring the waterproofing of your masonry is a crucial responsibility for any homeowner, especially those who own rental properties. Landlords must prioritize waterproofing walls to prevent issues such as dampness and mould. Effective waterproofing can not only safeguard the structural integrity of the property but also address concerns related to property maintenance. In the context of a rental property, the question often arises: is mould a landlord issue? The answer lies in the landlord’s duty to maintain a safe and habitable living environment. Inadequate waterproofing leading to dampness and mould can pose health risks to tenants and is considered a landlord’s responsibility. So, if you’re trying to figure out how to keep your property damp-free all year, here are some tips on properly waterproofing your walls.

What Is Masonry Waterproofing?

Masonry waterproofing refers to the process of effectively sealing masonry walls, both brick and concrete, to create an impermeable barrier against moisture and water.

While there are several different masonry waterproofing systems that homeowners may have installed, the objective of each is to keep water off the outside and your home dries on the inside, no matter how hard it’s raining.

Masonry waterproofing protects your property from expensive problems like dampness or mould, while in many cases adding an extra layer of insulation that helps to save energy and keep your home cool.

Several kinds of masonry waterproofing are used by contractors. ‘Tanking’ involves mixing a special kind of concrete that retains its form and texture as it cures. All masonry must be waterproofed, as water can erode the mortar and stone over time. Repairing broken masonry is one of the most difficult tasks you’ll take on at home. A damp-proof course (DPC)

Let’s take a closer look at the most popular ways to waterproof masonry.

Waterproofing Agents Are Used

External masonry walls can be waterproofed using one of the simplest methods: waterproofing chemicals. There are a variety of waterproofing compounds available, but the finest will help to protect your masonry walls for many years.

Waterproofing agents, such as waterproof masonry creams and resins, are used to seal masonry fully. This leads to an effective waterproof barrier that resists rain and prevents moisture from seeping into masonry walls.

Repairing and Maintaining Broken Masonry

If you have leaks or have observed indications of dampness inside or outside your home, masonry has probably fractured or decayed. Brickwork might have been harmed, mortar may have crumbled, and critical structural elements such as cavity wall ties may have fallen.

Water may seep into the home through gaps in damaged masonry, as mentioned previously. If this happens, it’s critical to figure out where the masonry has failed before having it restored professionally. Filling any holes in the masonry or repairing or replacing any broken or damaged bricks helps guarantee that your walls are fully waterproofed.

In terms of maintenance, both external and internal elements of your home play a crucial role. Keeping items like tiles, gutters, windows, and doors well-maintained and properly sealed is essential for preventing water ingress. Additionally, if you reside in regions with heavy snowfall, it’s advisable to periodically engage experts in Snow removal services oakville (or your local area). This precaution helps prevent water from melted snow seeping into your waterproofed walls.

Tanking

Tanking is a technique used to completely seal and waterproof masonry walls located below ground level. It’s a commonly employed method to create a watertight barrier in areas like basements or lower floors, effectively preventing water from entering.

Another area where tanking is frequently applied is in the construction of retaining walls in gardens. This technique helps prevent water from seeping behind the wall and causing damage. Additionally, it contributes to the stability of the wall, preventing shifts or collapses. So, if you’re planning to build retaining walls in your garden with the help of a hardscaper, it’s essential to do proper tanking to avoid potential damage.

Tanking methods may vary, but a typical approach involves the removal of a masonry wall, followed by the application of waterproofing chemicals and plastering to create a sealed and waterproof surface.

Cavity Drainage Membrane

This internal method involves installing a studded plastic membrane against the masonry wall. The membrane creates a cavity that allows water to drain down to a sump pump or drainage system, rather than penetrating through the wall. This type of waterproofing is well-suited for basements, cellars, and other below-ground spaces where water entry is a concern. It can be installed without causing any major disruption to the existing structure of the building.

That explained, if the treatment sounds like something your property needs at the moment, you may employ professionals from a reputed agency such as London Waterproofing Solutions or any other you’d like to try out. The purpose of getting a reliable treatment like masonry waterproofing is to protect the property from groundwater, heavy rainfall, and moisture issues using proven cavity drain membrane technology.

Installing a Chemical Damp Proof Course

A chemical damp proof course is an excellent method to waterproof masonry walls. A DPC keeps potentially hazardous problems like rising and penetrating dampness at bay by preventing them from affecting a house.

Injecting a chemical damp proof course into a masonry wall is an effective and long-term solution that helps homeowners keep their property waterproofed. It’s particularly useful when combined with other methods of waterproofing, such as coating masonry walls with water-resistant materials and properly sealing your home against dampness.

If you want your property to be dry all year, masonry waterproofing is required. For expert advice on the finest masonry waterproofing for your house, we recommend consulting a damp specialist near you.

For more information on masonry waterproofing, please contact DBI. Their certified staff will be there to assist you with expert advice that is suited to your needs, or they’ll do a complete survey of your property.