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Waterproof Your Basement The Easy Way

By: John Morris

Sometimes we become aware of leaks at the worst time - when the rains pour. There are, however, different ways to fix these problems. One way of fixing it is to use waterproofing. The concept of waterproofing is based on the premise that all structures, whether a house or a building, should be weathertight. This means that the structure should be able to withstand whatever weather occurs, especially during the rainy season. In this aspect, there should be no leaks or condensation allowed to seep through.

1. Waterproofing

Concrete waterproofing is gradually taking center stage as it continuously proved its efficiency at the same time boasting its affordability. Many people are opting for concrete waterproofing because they find it more economical than the other types of waterproofing.

2. The Concept

Basically, concrete waterproofing is used to prevent seepage and leakage of water to the structure. It utilizes the catalytic reaction to close up holes, contraction cracks, and passageways that are common to most concrete walls. Concrete waterproofing uses crystalline as its basic component because it infiltrates deep within the concrete. As it seeps through, it does not merely wrap up the hairline cracks but also the existence of humidity and further fissures that are embedded deep within the concrete walls.

As the mixture is applied to the concrete’s exterior, catalytic reaction takes place and develops some inches of non-soluble crystalline fibers within the holes and capillary tracts of the concrete. In turn, these crystalline fibers close the cracks and provide protection against further infiltration of water from all routes.

3. The Composition

Before, concrete waterproofing was mainly used in buildings and industrial structures. But with further developments, concrete waterproofing is now house-friendly and can be readily applied for residential use. The suburban composition of concrete waterproofing is composed of waterless powder mixture of Portland cement with proprietary chemicals and very refined silica sand. It is so easy to apply because it only needs water for application.

4. The Advantages

- Less costly than solvent-based waterproofing
- It’s easy to apply.
- Eradicates the expense and difficulty of re-excavating present groundwork just to patch up a seepage
- It’s safe (non-flammable, odorless)
- It is more durable and reliable.
- Can endure all kinds of harmful elements in the surroundings like harmful chemicals and salt sprays

5. The Application

- Clean the surface first and free the area from any dirt and dust. Unlikely substance may cause the mixture to not stick
- Apply the mixture and let it stand for two to three days
- Regularly apply water to the surface during the two to three days curing period. This is to ensure that enough moisture is present so as to complete the catalytic reaction

You can do this by spraying small quantities of water enough to moisten the surface, backfilling the surface with damp soil, or covering with soaked burlap. By occasionally applying moisture to the area, the reaction will speed up and the process will be finished earlier. So, after doing all these, you can now be assured that your house will be leak-free when the rain comes. You can now enjoy rainy days without a drop from the inside.

Article Source: http://www.bluearticles.com


For more great waterproofing related articles and resources check out http://www.weknowwaterproofing.com

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