Waterproofing for outdoor areas
While annual maintenance is essential and will allow you to uncover and repair problems early on, not all water damage may be immediately visible. Here's some advice on areas to inspect and some products you can use to waterproof outdoor areas.
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First off, while it is fine for the homeowner to undertake minor repairs or attend to regular maintenance, larger projects should be handed over to a professional waterproofing contractor.
Waterproofing exposed brickwork and damaged plaster finishes
Water damage to brickwork will result in expensive repairs if not attended to as quickly as possible. Water can gain access to walls in many ways: either due to cement or plaster finishes cracking, as a result of blocked gutters or downpipes, or where the DPC (damp proofing course) has failed, and where window and door frames are not properly sealed.
◊ - Identify
The first step is to identify the problem. The first indication of water ingress into brickwork is peeling / blistering paint or crumbling plaster / mortar. Find out where the water is coming from, or how water gains access to brickwork.
◊ - Repair
Scrape away peeling / bubbling paint to expose plaster. If the plaster is crumbling it will also need to be removed and replaced. You will also need to replace crumbling or cracked mortar between bricks.
◊ - Products
Waterproofing balconies and covered patios
It is important to regularly inspect balconies and covered patios for cracks or any indication that water has gained egress to brickwork on these areas.
◊ - Identify
Mould, peeling or blistering paint, efflorescence (white chalky dust on surface), or water stains, are an indication of water penetration. Locate the source of cracks or defects where water can gain access to the structure.
◊ - Repair
Scrape away peeling / bubbling paint to expose plaster. If the plaster is crumbling it will also need to be removed and replaced. On a tiled balcony replace any damaged grout and replace with grout mixed with a suitable waterproofing additive.
◊ - Products
