Correct Commercial Property Waterproofing with Projex

The Top Ways to Ensure Your Commercial Property is Correctly Waterproofed and Sealed

It's necessary for properties, both commercial and residential, to be professionally waterproofed and sealed to prevent any damage from flooding or leaks. Commercial properties come with a higher degree of importance. Any structural damage brought on as a result of incorrect or a lack of waterproofing can be both costly and risky, disrupting functionality and business operations.

Whether you're carrying out replacement works to an existing waterproofing membrane, or you're needing to work from the ground-up, there are a few measures you can follow to make sure your commercial property is correctly waterproofed and sealed.

Above ground and below grade waterproofing and sealing

Many design professionals neglect to incorporate above and below grade waterproofing and sealing because they assume proper roofing and drainage will tackle any rain or flooding hazards. While roofing and waterproofing both work to keep water out of a building, a capable waterproofing design will require both above ground and below grade waterproofing to prolong the life of a building.

• Above ground waterproofing - Above ground waterproofing is the sealing and protection of the surface of the building. Waterproofing of surfaces above ground refers to the prevention of the leaking or intrusion of water into exposed elements of a structure or its components. This can include the roofing, patios, balconies, terraces, etc.
• Below grade waterproofing - Below grade waterproofing also incorporates the diversion of water away from the structural elements below the buildings surface. In a commercial building this can include underground car-parks, lift pits, cellars, interior walls and components, and basements. Water obstructions in the foundation of a building are typically more severe than above ground areas since structural elements below grade are often exposed to hydrostatic pressure from ground water tables, which can cause movement and instability of the building's foundation.

The first thing to do is to understand which parts of your commercial building are most vulnerable to water damage and to conduct a check of these areas to deem which are most at risk. This should be incorporated into your regular workplace safety list to ensure no potential hazards will lead to considerable damage or health risks.

Waterproofing commercial roofs and balconies

External features such as roofs, patios, and balconies are constantly exposed to all weather conditions. If your commercial property's roof or external structures aren't properly waterproofed and sealed, this could mean they're at risk of damage over time.

Even if your current commercial property has existing waterproofing in place, it's often at risk of giving out; particularly in buildings constructed in the last 20 years. Waterproofing and sealing techniques have changed dramatically, and so it's a good idea to factor in the potential hazards of an insufficient waterproofing system when it comes to commercial roofs and balconies.

In a commercial property, you want reliable waterproofing and sealing products for a long-term solution. Projex recommends either Wolfin or Cosmofin membranes since they're high-quality, can be applied on all surfaces and are supplied as total systems to complete the entire job.

Waterproofing car parks

Commercial car parks and parking decks need to be well-designed to prevent any damage or safety risks. Since parking lots are constantly under pressure from both traffic and the elements, it's easy for cracks to start appearing and corrosion to begin. Along with moisture damage from rain and leaks, vehicles also bring in oil and fuel stains. To prevent this, parking lot and deck waterproofing and sealing is vital.

Sealing basement leaks

Basements and underground car-parks or cellars can be exposed to water vapour penetration from below. Water leaks in a basement can lead to water damage and mould, and over time water can pool and rise like a dam which can significantly impact the foundation of the property. A suitable waterproofing membrane will seal surfaces to make them watertight.

In most cases, water leakage inside a basement can be sourced to the exterior of the building via pipes. If this is the case, a mechanical seal such as the Link-Seal System can be used to seal the outside diameter of pipes running through walls, floors, or ceilings.

In some circumstances, an excavation may be needed to fix a leaky basement. The area will be excavated down to the foundation and then room made for a new drainage system installed. Waterproofing membranes are installed to protect the substrates from water ingress.

Why your commercial building needs waterproofing

Commercial waterproofing is a wise investment. Protecting the structure of your building also protects you and the building's occupants from any health risks or hazards such as mould and unstable ground. It can also add value to your property.

Let the experts at Projex assist you with your commercial waterproofing and sealing needs by contacting us today.