Cracks in a commercial building may seem harmless at first glance, but overlooking them can lead to extensive damage and major headaches.
For commercial property owners in Eastern PA and DE, implementing reliable waterproofing is essential to shield your investment from the dangers of cracks.
Read on to understand the causes of cracks, the risks of leaving them unchecked, and the waterproofing solutions available to protect your building properly.
What Causes Cracks in Commercial Buildings?
Cracks in concrete and masonry walls, floors, foundations, and other components can stem from a variety of factors:
Settlement and Foundation Issues
Over time, settling or shifting the ground beneath the foundation can cause cracks as the building settles unevenly. If the soil is poorly compacted during construction, it can also result in problems with the foundation.
Materials Shrinkage
Some shrinkage occurs as concrete, stucco, wood, and other building materials dry and cure. This often results in cracks as the materials contract.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
Daily and seasonal temperature swings cause building materials to expand and contract alternately. Restraints within the structure lead to stress buildup and cracking.
Poor Construction
Mistakes during design or construction, such as flawed concrete mixes or inadequate steel reinforcement, can impart weaknesses that lead to cracks.
The Dangers of Leaving Cracks Unaddressed
While cracks may seem to be a cosmetic nuisance, the consequences of leaving them unchecked can be severe:
Water Infiltration
Cracks provide the perfect entry point for water. This moisture can lead to destructive mold growth, structural rot, and corrosion and encourage pest infestations.
Structural Instability
Cracks that propagate deep into foundations, walls, and supports can compromise structural integrity. Widening cracks signal growing problems.
Higher Energy Costs
Gaps let conditioned air escape and undesirable outside air infiltrate. This increases energy usage as HVAC systems work harder to maintain comfort.
Property Devaluation
Unaddressed cracks make properties less appealing to potential buyers or tenants, negatively impacting market value and rental income.
Disruption to Occupants
The damage from cracks can render properties unsafe or unusable, displacing occupants as repairs are undertaken.
Waterproofing Solutions for Commercial Buildings
When it comes to blocking water and securing commercial buildings against cracks, numerous effective solutions are available:
Caulking
Caulking gaps and joints with professional-grade sealants is a straightforward way to form a watertight seal. Silicones, polyurethanes, and hybrid sealants withstand expansion and contraction cycles without cracking or shrinking.
They come in a variety of colors to match building materials. Backer rods can be installed for deep gaps before caulking.
Liquid-Applied Membranes
Seamless, elastomeric coatings and polyureas can be sprayed or rolled on to provide full-surface protection. These durable, flexible liquid membranes adhere well to concrete, wood, metal, and other substrates.
They stretch without cracking; some can bridge cracks up to 1/4 inch wide. Options include asphalt emulsions, acrylics, polyurethane, and epoxy coatings.
Cementitious Waterproofing
Cement-based coatings containing polymers, aggregates, and reinforcing fibers offer another protective barrier that blocks moisture intrusion while allowing water vapor transmission.
Options include crystallization products that react with moisture to seal concrete pores and cracks. Compatible primers ensure proper adhesion.
Sheet Membranes
Self-adhering modified bitumen sheets with rubberized asphalt provide seamless water barriers when existing materials are too damaged to coat.
Torch welding the underside creates a unified membrane. Thermoplastic options such as PVC, TPO, and EPDM are also available. Modified mastics seal edges.
Waterproofing Admixtures
Special additives blended into concrete mixes make the concrete water-resistant. Hydrophobic chemicals form microscopic barriers within the concrete matrix as it cures.
This integral waterproofing handles high pressure and is compatible with concrete repair products.
Drainage Systems
Interior and exterior drainage systems capture water and moisture, directing it away from the structure.
Options range from drainage matting against foundation walls to full perimeter drain tiles, gravel backfill, and sump pumps to prevent moisture buildup.
Combining complementary solutions creates a layered defense tailored to your building’s needs. Don’t leave out cracked concrete foundations and damaged sections that require structural repair before waterproofing.
Why Hire Professional Waterproofing Contractors?
Commercial waterproofing is complex, and improper installation can render products ineffective. Professional contractors bring:
Commercial Experience
They understand the unique challenges and codes involved in commercial projects, essential for successfully executing large-scale waterproofing.
Proper Application Techniques
Specialized training and hands-on experience equip them to implement the full range of solutions to manufacturer specifications correctly.
Access to Specialty Products
Top contractors have business partnerships that provide access to advanced materials and equipment essential for commercial-grade waterproofing.
Warranties
Reputable contractors stand behind their work by offering multi-year warranties on labor and materials. This provides long-term peace of mind.
Problem-Solving Skills
Experts can detect issues behind cracks and leaks and offer cost-effective solutions to address the symptoms and the root causes.
Protect your property and occupants by partnering with seasoned commercial waterproofing professionals dedicated to stopping cracks in their tracks.
Keep Your Investment Safe with Comprehensive Commercial Waterproofing Solutions from Waterproof Caulking & Restoration
Waterproof Caulking & Restoration’s team is highly experienced in solving commercial waterproofing issues throughout Eastern PA and DE.
Protect your most valuable assets and stop cracks from threatening your building’s structural stability with comprehensive waterproofing from Waterproof Caulking & Restoration.
Contact us today at 484.265.9646 or schedule a consultation online for an evaluation and quote tailored to your property.