Different Methods of Concrete Waterproofing and Their Benefits

Concrete is one of the most indestructible materials on the planet, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t susceptible to damage. There are several different categories of natural damage, but water and excess moisture are among the more common culprits. Waterproofing is essential to preserving your concrete flooring system and prolonging its lifespan. With any surface, you will need to treat it with some sort of protective coating. However, there is a certain question that you should ask yourself – should you use a more conventional concrete sealer or an epoxy overlay?

The answer will depend on the setting and how you are utilizing your system.

Not only is your concrete beginning to show its age, but the material is weakening and becoming structurally unstable. Once concrete begins to erode and diminish, you will notice all the base materials that constitute the mixture. In most cases, concrete will take several years to fully deteriorate to a point where it is no longer serviceable. This is a situation you will want to avoid at all costs if you can. Concrete waterproofing will go a long way in protecting and maintaining the base material.

Concrete sealers are very lightweight and they are usually very easy to install. Most people will make use of a concrete sealer for outdoor concrete surfaces as a protective measure against rain, wind, excess moisture and other elements. Concrete sealers also hold up well against rapidly freezing and thawing weather conditions.

The market features a range of sealers that come with different chemical properties. You should always consult a professional installer to determine the sealer that will benefit you the most in terms of its concrete waterproofing capabilities.

Here are some of the benefits of concrete sealers:

• They will effectively seal off your concrete floor so that water and moisture won’t compromise the material
• They will preserve your concrete despite rapid freezing/thawing cycles
• They will prevent surface stains from appearing
• They limit corrosion caused by exposure to salt and other chemicals
• They make the concrete surface appear new and shiny
• They are generally affordable to install
• You can undergo DIY opportunities (always make sure you know what you are getting yourself into)
• They will last for at least 5 years before you will need to apply a new coating
• They offer a variety of home applications, including basements and driveways

Epoxy coatings are compromised of a resinous thermoset polymer and hardening agents. The material is used in a wide variety of applications. Epoxy is widely utilized for its strong adhesive properties. Corporations in the auto and aerospace industries make use of epoxy for its superior concrete waterproofing capabilities and chemical/thermal resistance. Epoxy coatings establish a sturdy, protective overlay that effectively seals off your concrete flooring system.

Epoxy coatings also offer many amazing benefits, and they offer a variety of uses. You will likely need to pay more money for an epoxy coating versus a concrete sealer, but they offer better strength and protection. Here is what you can expect after you install your epoxy coating:

• Establishing a sturdy overlay that seals off the porous concrete material underneath
• Protecting your concrete flooring from stains and water damage
• Preventing corrosion brought upon by exposure to harsh industrial chemicals
• Limiting the effects of impact damage and surface abrasions
• Offering a wide range of color schemes and design options

It is worth noting that you will need to hire a concrete contractor to install epoxy floor coatings. The entire process requires a lot of skill and precision to pull off. Overlooking any minor details will force you to start all over and at that point, the process will become time-consuming and financially unfeasible. When installed correctly, epoxy flooring will last for up to 20 years if you are properly taking care of the material (including routine maintenance and cleanings).

Epoxy serves as a viable concrete waterproofing solution in many different settings. It is often used in large industrial and manufacturing facilities, such as warehouses, factories, etc. Epoxy coatings are also ideal for retail stores and other commercial buildings that experience a lot of foot traffic. Epoxy flooring has no limitations in terms of where you want to install it. Many homeowners make use of the material for different reasons.

Waterproofing is a crucial component of many building and hardscaping projects. It plays a role in preserving the structural integrity of the concrete. Concrete waterproofing will allow you to avoid a lot of the hazards associated with water damage and other persistent issues. Whether you opt for an epoxy coating or a more conventional concrete sealer, they are going to offer you plenty of amazing benefits:

Concrete waterproofing will greatly prolong the lifespan of your flooring system. That’s because you are limiting the negative effects of excessive moisture. A well-protected concrete floor will not easily succumb to water damage.

Concrete waterproofing isn’t solely utilized to protect the structural integrity of your flooring system. It also offers health benefits. Outbreaks of mold and mildew are bound to occur when moisture makes its way into the concrete material. Those outbreaks will also quickly spread and proliferate if you don’t deal with the problem accordingly. Excessive exposure to mold and mildew can have a compromising effect on your immune system, which is something you will certainly want to avoid.

Concrete waterproofing will simplify maintenance and cleaning procedures immensely. When your concrete flooring is free of any water damage, then that is less time you have to spend repairing and resurfacing the material. The durable and sturdy overlay seals off the concrete so that you can easily clean up any mess that you create.

Concrete waterproofing will go a long way in establishing a safe and cleanly work area or living space. It will also safeguard your property. Water supplies play a big role in our everyday lives, but if any water ends up in areas where it shouldn’t be, then this can lead to trouble. Concrete floors that experience a lot of water damage will pose a significant risk to your health, safety and overall well-being.

Let’s say that you are trying to sell your home and you are searching for safe and affordable ways to make it more desirable to potential buyers. Concrete waterproofing will greatly improve the appearance and curb appeal of your home. You can also easily recoup the money you invest in your concrete waterproofing when you complete the sale of your home.

What kind of surface are you waterproofing? Is it a backyard patio or driveway? Or is it an entire flooring system for a warehouse or any other large manufacturing facility? Think about how much abuse your floor is going to sustain. Concrete sealers are much more ideal for areas that don’t experience a lot of foot traffic. Epoxy coatings offer a great deal of protection against chemical exposure and thermal shock. Think about the kind of use you’re going to get out of it.

Have any questions regarding concrete waterproofing? We can provide you with a better understanding of what the entire process will demand of you. Contact us today and one of our concrete contractors will explain anything that you are uncertain about. In situations that require professional assistance, you should never hesitate to consult with someone who has plenty of experience with concrete waterproofing and repair work.