No more damages or repairs: House waterproofing is the key

How House Waterproofing Can Help Prevent Water-related Damages

You are getting your house renovated. You have decided on new paint, new tiles, a new rocking chair for that room you expanded, and so much more. But have you ticked off waterproofing from the list yet?

Since renovation often includes repairing existing damages, homeowners tend to be satisfied with the same and overlook preventive measures that can prove beneficial in the future. One of these measures is waterproofing. 

Let's understand why waterproofing is a MUST during renovation.

What will happen if you skip waterproofing?

You have renovated your home and are happy with the way it has turned out. But if you have skipped waterproofing, here's what could go wrong -

1. Damages to your house - Though your house looks sturdy and beautiful today, without a waterproofing system, water infiltration might start adversely affecting your house. Your roof, walls, kitchen, bathroom, as well as your water tank may start showing signs of damage. 

2. Aesthetic damage - The first thing you might notice are stains, discolouration, puffy surfaces, etc., that will diminish your house's visual appeal and aesthetics. 

3. Affected living space - If the issue is left unattended, the water-related damage may start contributing to an uncomfortable living space. Water infiltration often leads to mould and mildew growth, damp environments, cold spots, etc., which can affect the health of the residents. 

4. Damage to belongings - Any furniture, appliances, or decor items kept adjacent to a damp wall can get affected as well. It can also lead to rotting of wood furniture, issues in electric appliances that can further cause accidents, damage to perishable products like food, etc.

5. Increased maintenance costs - Without proper waterproofing, you may find yourself constantly dealing with repairs and maintenance to address water-related issues. From fixing leaks and replacing damaged materials to combating mould and mildew, the cumulative cost of repairs can significantly add up over time, far outweighing the initial investment in waterproofing.

6. Decreased property value - Water damage not only affects the structural integrity and aesthetics of your home but also diminishes its overall market value. Potential buyers are likely to be deterred by the prospect of dealing with water-related issues, leading to difficulties in selling the property and potentially lowering its resale value.

The importance of waterproofing is evident when you realise how these damages can affect you in the long-term. However, the solution is easy, you can nip all these issues in the bud with the right waterproofing treatment during renovation. 

What are some common misconceptions about waterproofing?

Homeowners tend to have a few misconceptions about waterproofing systems, so they either hesitate to implement them or get them done incorrectly. Let's see what they are - 

1. Waterproofing is unnecessary - Homeowners often tend to believe that a layer of paint or any substandard coating can safeguard the house from water infiltration, and waterproofing is an unnecessary step. However, this is a misconception because only waterproofing products and systems have the right materials to make a house truly water-resistant. Furthermore, it is necessary because it prevents water-related damages and costly repairs and keeps your house sturdy. 

2. A single solution to all - Many often believe that there is a single solution, i.e. a single product, that can address all kinds of water-related damage. Contractors may also suggest this to homeowners to get away with hasty work. However, it is important to know that there are different types of waterproofing systems in place for different areas of the house. Similarly, different damages call for different waterproofing solutions. 

3. Repairs are inevitable - There's a common misconception that as the house ages, repairs are inevitable and have to be done every time there is a seepage or leakage issue. Due to this misconception, homeowners keep on facing damages and repairing them. However, house waterproofing can easily eliminate the need for repairs and prove to be a long-term solution. 

Short-term savings vs long-term investment

Many homeowners hesitate to opt for waterproofing because they see it from a short-term perspective. However, when it comes to waterproofing, you must look at the bigger picture. 

Let's understand this better.

1. Without waterproofing - Tara has just got her old house renovated but hasn't opted for waterproofing. Initially, her house looked sturdy and beautiful. But after the monsoon, her internal walls started to show visible signs of discolouration. The water has seeped in from the exterior wall to the interiors. She immediately calls her contractor and gets it repaired. However, she spots the issues again, and now on the ceiling as well. This not only affects her house and peace of mind, but the frequent repair also disrupts her budget and savings. 

2. With waterproofing - While renovating her old home, Tara decides to give waterproofing a go. From investing in waterproofing solutions for her interior walls to the roof, kitchen, bathroom, exterior walls, and even the water tank, she ensures the contractor covers every space. As soon as monsoon hits, she is relaxed and enjoys the weather, knowing there will not be any water infiltration or related damage. Moreover, Tara doesn't have to shell out money on repairs time and again. She now has a healthy living space, peace of mind, and good property value (if she decides to sell it).

Dr. Fixit - Your one-stop solution

Getting expert help ensures quality waterproofing, the use of the best waterproofing chemicals and products, and a long-term solution to water-related damages. Dr. Fixit can give you the right answers, guidance, and certified contractors ensuring high quality services. You can reach out to us easily by filling out the form given below. 

FAQs

FAQ#1 - What are the most common areas of a property that require waterproofing?

These areas that MUST be waterproofed for a safe and strong house include -

1. The roof
2. The walls (internal and external)
3. The kitchen
4. The bathroom
5. The water tank
6. The foundation (during new construction only)

FAQ#2 - How can water intrusion affect the structural integrity of a property?

Water can seep into the structure, gradually make its way through one part of it, and spread to others. If left unattended, a constant intrusion can cause small gaps and cracks on the ceiling and walls, allowing more water to seep in and increase the damage. Constant exposure to water can adversely affect the iron rods in the structure as they react with salt and sand. This can give rise to efflorescence and, in some cases, affect materials used inside the walls.

FAQ#3 - Why is waterproofing often ignored by consumers?

Waterproofing is often ignored due to misconceptions like -

1. Waterproofing is unnecessary
2. Temporary repairs are enough
3. Regular paints and coatings can safeguard the house

Often, a lack of awareness about the benefits of waterproofing can result in ignorance of waterproofing. 

FAQ#4 - Can waterproofing be done on existing structures?

Yes, existing structures can be waterproofed to enhance their durability and protection against moisture. In fact, it is advisable to waterproof your home during the renovation if it was skipped before. Remember to consult a reputed waterproofing specialist such as Dr. Fixit for high-quality waterproofing solutions and guidance.