Waterproofing of floors is carried out depending on the location of the object, the presence of groundwater, the floor, as well as the material from which the floors are made. Wood is most susceptible to rotting and therefore even a small amount of moisture that gets on the surface can deform wooden floors, so waterproofing wooden floors is mandatory. In those places where the floor is adjacent to walls or other building structures that rise above the floors, waterproofing continues at a height of thirty centimeters above the floor level. If waterproofing of floors is carried out correctly in city apartments, this will protect you from troubles from neighbors below. Water that may accumulate on the floor will not penetrate to the neighbors below.
Waterproofing floors is a set of works that are designed to protect concrete and wooden floors from the destructive effects of moisture. If there is no floor waterproofing, then concrete floors will gradually collapse, and wooden floors will rot.
In newly built houses, waterproofing of floors is usually carried out by contractors, but before the housewarming, you should check whether it was done correctly.
When carrying out major renovations in old apartments, waterproofing the floors is fully included in the complex of all work performed. For example, laying tiles is carried out only after leveling the floors, installing waterproofing of the floor and completing the screed.
Waterproofing floors in bathrooms and washrooms is done a little differently. The fact is that the floors in such rooms are an order of magnitude lower than the rest of the rooms, due to this the apartment is protected from spilling water in their bathroom or toilet. In order to additionally protect against water spillage, emergency drains are provided in such rooms, as well as door thresholds, and the floor itself is sloped towards the emergency drain.
Floor waterproofing is a process or treatment applied to floors to prevent water from penetrating or seeping through the surface, thus protecting the underlying structure from water damage. This is particularly important in areas where water exposure is common, such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, balconies, and outdoor decks.
There are several methods of floor waterproofing, including the application of waterproofing membranes, coatings, sealants, and waterproofing additives in concrete mixes. Each method has its own advantages and is chosen based on factors such as the type of flooring material, the level of water exposure, and the desired aesthetic finish.
- Waterproofing Membranes: These are thin layers of waterproof material applied directly to the substrate before the installation of the flooring material. Waterproofing membranes can be made of various materials such as bitumen, PVC, EPDM rubber, or polyurethane. They create a barrier that prevents water from penetrating the floor and reaching the underlying structure.
- Coatings and Sealants: Waterproofing coatings and sealants are applied directly to the surface of the flooring material, forming a protective barrier against water intrusion. These coatings can be acrylic, epoxy, polyurethane, or silicone-based, and they come in liquid form that can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. They provide an invisible protective layer that seals gaps, cracks, and pores in the flooring material, making it impervious to water.
- Waterproofing Additives: In some cases, waterproofing additives are mixed into concrete or mortar before installation to improve the water resistance of the flooring material. These additives typically include chemicals such as acrylic polymers, latex, or silicates, which react with the cementitious matrix to create a denser, more impermeable surface.
Floor waterproofing offers several benefits, including:
- Protection Against Water Damage: By preventing water from seeping through the floor, waterproofing helps protect the underlying structure from damage caused by moisture, such as rot, mold, mildew, and decay.
- Extended Lifespan: Waterproofing extends the lifespan of the flooring material by reducing the risk of water-related deterioration, such as warping, swelling, or delamination.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: By preventing the growth of mold and mildew, waterproofing helps maintain a healthier indoor environment and improves indoor air quality.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Waterproofing coatings and sealants come in a variety of finishes and colors, allowing homeowners to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their floors while providing waterproof protection.
Overall, floor waterproofing is an essential aspect of building construction and renovation, ensuring the longevity, durability, and safety of the flooring system in both residential and commercial settings. Whether applied during new construction or as part of a renovation project, floor waterproofing helps protect valuable assets and ensures peace of mind for property owners.
