Damp can be a major problem for homeowners. If water can penetrate exterior walls, it can cause a great deal of damage to the property, including damp patches and mould.
If mould and mildew is allowed to grow, it can also have serious effects on health. Asthma UK advises that living in a mouldy or damp home is not good for asthma and that people with allergies, babies, young children and older people are more likely to be affected by mould and damp.
Follow our advice on how to waterproof your exterior walls, to avoid damage and health problems.
1. Stripping
Using paint stripper, strip the finish from the concrete portion of the exterior wall. The wall must be bare concrete so the product can penetrate.
2. Washing
The wall should be washed with a power washer and mild detergent so all residue is removed.
3. Patch cracks
Any cracks in the wall which are larger than the product will be able to seal should be patched. Use a trowel and concrete to do this and level it once patched, so it is completely flush with the wall. It should then be left to dry.
4. Sandblast‘
The wall needs to have a rough finish for the product to grip to, so you should either sandblast the wall or scrub it with a wire brush to roughen the surface
5. Rinse
Rinse the wall thoroughly so any dust, debris or residue is removed. Check the manufacturer’s instructions and if required, keep the wall moist during application.
6. Application
The waterproofing sealant should be applied to the wall using a roller or a brush. Apply it evenly, allowing it to thoroughly coat the wall. Always allow the wall to dry thoroughly before applying a second coat.
As an alternative to waterproofing solutions, brick cladding is hardwearing and waterproof as well as being aesthetically pleasing and it can be used as effective protection for exterior walls. Telling provide brick cladding, for example, which is an innovative, lightweight, and cost-effective cladding system.
Waterproofing the exterior walls may seem like a big task, but prevention is better than cure, as the saying goes. It is certainly better to spend some time and effort ensuring that exterior walls are completely sealed, rather than waiting for significant damage, to the property or your health.
