There are many reasons that commercial properties need to be properly sealed and waterproofed by a waterproofing company. The primary concern for most commercial buildings is avoiding costly damage from leaks and flooding. Moisture has a way of wreaking havoc on buildings, working its way through even the smallest of openings and bringing pathogens into workspaces. This can cause damage to the building itself as well as its contents. Even a small amount of water damage can ruin supply lines and cause the type of dampness that attracts mold.
Professional waterproofing companies can identify and address moisture problems before they become major issues. Here is a look at some of the areas a waterproofing company will look into when it comes to working on commercial buildings.
Above-Grade By A Waterproofing Company
The part of the property that is above surface level is easier to waterproof and seal than the part sitting below grade. Waterproofing companies can ensure that there are no cracks on the walls of the building’s exterior through which water could enter and cause damage.
There is a range of sealants and coatings that waterproofing companies can use to protect the façade from water entering. For example, there are sealants that are made specifically for use on bricks and others that are designed to seal concrete.
All of the doors and windows on the property need to be waterproofed and sealed; professional waterproofers can examine the building and identify any potential weak spots so that they can be fixed before they become a problem.
Below-Grade Waterproofing
When it comes to waterproofing the part of the property that sits below ground, different approaches are needed than those used for above-grade waterproofing. Extra steps are required to ensure that the foundation and the parts of any walls that are below the ground remain waterproofed and sealed.
In some cases, it may be necessary for waterproofing companies to take out the ground surrounding the below-grade level of the commercial property so that slopes can be created to stop water from collecting and building up around the walls.
Patio And Balcony Waterproofing
Patios and balconies can be vulnerable areas of commercial properties, even if they are covered by some sort of roof. This is because rain can fall at an angle, and the force of the wind can enable water to get into the patio or balcony despite being covered.
Patios and balconies are exposed to all weather conditions and can become damaged over time if they are not properly waterproofed.
Waterproofing companies will look at the type of materials used in the flooring of the patio or balcony to determine the right type of coating to give it a high level of protection. They may also check the integrity of the substrate to ensure it is not damaged and make any repairs that are needed.
Parking Area Waterproofing
On top of being exposed to the elements, parking lots are subject to cars leaking oil and fuel on them, which can lead to staining and damage. Waterproofing a parking lot is essential to keep damage to a minimum, and all cracks that appear in the ground of a parking lot or a parking deck should be sealed right away to stop the problem from getting worse.
Commercial waterproofing companies can resurface severely damaged parking decks with epoxy coating that can restore cracks. They can also add top coats that increase durability and protect the deck from water intrusion.
Negative Side Waterproofing
Negative side waterproofing is waterproofing that takes place on the inside of a room or wall where water may enter from outside. Waterproofing companies can look at a commercial building to determine the best approach for negative side waterproofing.
This serves as a valuable second layer of defense should water make it through any positive side waterproofing that has been used on the outside walls.
If water makes its way through the foundation, waterproofing is often used as a temporary solution while a more comprehensive remedy is being put in place. Despite not being permanent, it can be very effective in keeping the interior of the building dry in the short term.
Positive Side Waterproofing
One of the most effective approaches to waterproofing is positive side waterproofing, which involves waterproofing the side of the structure where water will enter — in other words, the outside.
The outer walls of a commercial property can be coated with a water-resistant coating and membranes that stop water from getting into the foundation or the walls.
Reach Out To The A Professional Waterproofing Company
With a commercial property, it is important to be vigilant when it comes to potential water damage because the livelihoods of all of the people who work within the building are at stake if something goes wrong.
Get in touch with a waterproofing company at Waterproof Caulking and Restoration to find out how they can help ensure that your commercial building is safe from water damage and flooding.