A compromised foundation is one of the worst structural problems that a property owner can face, and the leading cause of foundation problems is water damage. Little drips can seem harmless, but in time the collected water can seep into cracks and other areas, causing a whole host of other problems to the structural integrity and aesthetics of your building.
The damage that water can cause in buildings includes:
- Damage to building structural materials that includes but isn’t limited to; corrosion in metals and the reinforcement steel within the concrete, steel-beams, and metal-framing.
- Rotting of wooden materials and surfaces, which include beams, floors, racks, baseboards, and frames.
- Irreparable damage due to concrete spalling of building facades.
- Swelling of drywall resulting in tiles peeling or cracking.
- Swelling and bubbling of paint on walls and ceilings.
- Possible fire or electrical damage due to the danger of electric shock by short circuit of lighting and power points.
- Mold and damp problems that cause breathing issues and smells.
The role of waterproofing
Waterproofing is the best way to protect your building’s structural integrity from water damage. It involves creating an impermeable membrane that prevents water from seeping into dry areas and draining off safely. It’s important to do your research into waterproofing processes and materials, as it needs to be effective and have the following qualities:
Qualities to look for in waterproofing materials:
- Must be impermeable to water (waterproof) but still be able to breathe so as to allow moisture to escape out of the building and foundation.
- Flexible and elastic to adapt to the normal movements in the construction.
- Robust and long-lasting, with extremes of hot and cold or weather conditions in mind.
- Safe in the event of fire.
- Non-hazardous and environmentally friendly.
- Easy to maintain and clean.
- Does not require special care and should be easy to repair if damaged.
- Uniquely suited to the design and function of that part of the building.
Insufficient waterproofing is a problem all year round, not just during rainy seasons. Which is why you should ensure that your building is properly waterproofed to prevent major structural issues or aesthetic defects, making your commercial or industrial space either unsafe or difficult to occupy.
Robex waterproofing for commercial and industrial buildings
Robex offers impeccable workmanship and brilliant design as one of the premium waterproofing membrane suppliers in South Africa. Offering a wide range of waterproofing technology to suit your particular needs. Ideal for the waterproofing of balconies, terraces, flat roofs, walkways, planter boxes, tiles and other surfaces. Robex offers a range of advanced coating systems that deliver superior strength and weather resistance.
For your car park, RX Protadeck ensures the construction of parking is safe, durable and attractive; traits which are fast becoming an increasingly important factor in commercial developments. Robex provides waterproofing and surface coatings that meet a number of aesthetic, performance and service requirements.
For damp and waterproofing, Robex offers a range of materials and solutions for all environments and client requirements. Their waterproofing membranes are extremely versatile, very quick curing, highly durable and safe for the environment.
Recommended waterproofing products from Robex
RX Wetsuit
The RX Wetsuit system is a fully bonded, seamless, spray-applied waterproofing system. It is an extremely versatile, highly durable waterproofing membrane that’s safe for the environment. RX Wetsuit is a high-grade rubber product with bituminous emulsification that delivers as a roofing product, waterproofing product and air barrier. Ideal for a wide range of uses, the system provides solutions for the entire building envelope. Learn more about the features and benefits here.
RX Protadeck
RX Protadeck is a high-performance waterproofing system that protects concrete, timber and steel surfaces. It is a 100% seamless, fully bonded and trafficable MMA resin system that is also UV stable. The system has been designed as a water and chemical resistant coating with added abrasion resistance. It can be applied to virtually any surface and has a rapid application and cure time (full cure of 60 minutes). Learn more about the features and benefits here.
