Proper waterproofing is essential for any commercial building, especially for basements and other below-grade spaces. Water intrusion can result in mold, mildew, structural issues, and other significant problems.
Planning and executing effective exterior basement waterproofing in a commercial property takes careful consideration and expertise. Avoid these top 10 mistakes to improve your odds of success.
Skipping Professional Assessment
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to rely solely on visual inspection when evaluating your exterior basement waterproofing needs. Although cracks or leaks may seem obvious, more problems can lurk unseen. You need a professional assessment to identify current and potential trouble spots.
A qualified professional will conduct thorough tests and analyses to gauge water flow, structural soundness, and other factors. This data provides the proper waterproofing recommendations for your property, so you shouldn’t skip this essential step.
Ineffective Drainage Planning
Many basement water problems result from insufficient drainage. To properly waterproof, you need a drainage plan that guides water away from the foundation. The system must also be able to handle rainwater, runoff, snowmelt, and other exposures.
Proper slope, material selection, installation, and regular maintenance are all paramount. A detailed drainage plan tied into your waterproofing solution is necessary for commercial spaces. Trying to shortcut this process often backfires.
Choosing Materials Based Solely on Cost
The temptation to save money on waterproofing materials is natural. However, making choices based exclusively on upfront expenses may cost more in the long run. The lowest offer may seem tempting initially but could require frequent repairs or replacement.
Consider longevity and appropriateness for your climate instead. The most effective waterproofing relies on quality materials designed for durability and performance over many years, offering better value for the investment.
Overlooking Building Codes and Permits
Every commercial project must comply with relevant building codes and obtain the necessary permits. Failing to do so causes major issues down the line. Without proper oversight and documentation, the waterproofing methods may prove insufficient or contrary to regulations.
Working with experienced contractors familiar with local requirements helps establish that you meet standards. Trying to cut corners to save time or money is a losing proposition when safety and compliance are at stake.
Insufficient Surface Preparation
The success of any waterproofing application depends greatly on appropriate surface prep. Yet this step is often rushed or ignored entirely. Proper cleaning, crack repairs, smoothing, and priming establish a solid bond so the waterproofing lasts.
Plus, failure to follow manufacturer specifications for preparation work can void warranties. Don’t allow contractors to overlook this essential task and compromise your waterproofing outcomes for expediency.
Ignoring Weather Conditions
Waterproofing products and methods rely on specific temperature and humidity levels during application. But weather inevitably impacts project scheduling. Frigid winter temperatures or steamy summer heat and humidity can easily ruin improper applications.
Pay close attention to the ideal weather conditions for the waterproofing materials specified and schedule accordingly. Be prepared to delay work when conditions could impair bonding or cure times. Rushing through inappropriate weather often requires costly re-application.
Neglecting Expansion Joints
The concrete walls and foundations of commercial buildings expand and contract with temperature changes. Without properly accounting for this movement using expansion joints, waterproofing efforts fail as new cracks form.
Having expansion joints professionally engineered and installed with the right flexible sealing materials prevents water intrusion as the building shifts. Neglecting this need, which is specific to commercial spaces, sets any exterior basement waterproofing up for failure.
Poor Quality Control Measures
Inadequate oversight during installation can undermine even the best waterproofing plans and materials. Every project should establish quality benchmarks and inspection protocols tied to the specifications. Consistency and high standards rely on careful monitoring.
Assign knowledgeable staff to oversee the process so problems get quickly identified and corrected. Random testing by an independent firm further confirms quality outcomes that offer lasting water protection.
Inadequate Maintenance Planning
Waterproofing for commercial buildings can’t be a one-and-done effort. It requires careful maintenance to sustain performance and longevity. However, many owners neglect this aspect when planning the project. Without proper resources and staff training, the integrity of the waterproofing system eventually falters.
Maintenance schedules, procedures, and personnel responsibilities should be prominent in planning. Training staff to uphold standards and follow protocols keeps the waterproofing working efficiently for the building’s lifespan.
Failing to Address Structural Issues
No waterproofing solution can overcome underlying structural problems. Any major foundation deficiencies or building movement should be addressed in waterproofing planning.
A structural engineer can assess settlement cracks, wall bowing, and sinking columns and recommend appropriate fixes. Stabilizing the infrastructure provides the stable base waterproofing requires for success. Band-aid solutions eventually fail if fundamental structural flaws remain unaddressed.
Turn to Waterproof Caulking & Restoration for Professional Guidance
Avoiding these common pitfalls takes experience and expertise. Waterproof Caulking & Restoration has helped countless commercial property owners address deficiencies through appropriate sealing and waterproofing. Our master caulkers bring extensive technical knowledge of materials, applications, and building science.
After a thorough evaluation, we provide recommendations customized to your specific building challenges and climate. Our highly experienced specialists perform all the caulking work to secure that the results meet our rigorous standards for quality and longevity. Contact us today at 484.265.9646 or online for a consultation.