If you own a commercial building, you already know how important it is to make sure the structure is safe and secure. Waterproofing the foundation is one of the most important steps in preserving your commercial building. But what does waterproofing a commercial foundation even entail?
Take a look at the main steps involved in this process.
Step 1: Assessment & Diagnosis
The first step of any successful waterproofing project is assessing the building's foundation. This involves determining what kind of damage has been done, where the damage is located, and how severe it is.
You can do this by visually inspecting the interior and exterior of the building as well as using specialized tools such as moisture meters or infrared cameras. It's also important to inspect for any cracks or weaknesses in the foundation that could lead to future water issues. This way, you can easily determine the best waterproofing solution for your building.
Step 2: Preparation
Once an assessment has been performed, it's time to prepare for waterproofing. This part includes removing any debris from around the foundation walls and nearby drainage systems. An expert can also check for any existing cracks or structural weaknesses that need to be addressed before waterproofing begins.
Additionally, preparation may also involve installing new drainage systems if necessary. The drainage systems should be designed to move water away from the foundation and towards a safe location.
Step 3: Waterproofing Application
This is where all that preparation work pays off. Depending on what type of protection your foundation needs, there are several different waterproofing techniques that can be used, such as applying sealants or membranes.
Other techniques like epoxy injections or chemical grouts are most often used on large-scale projects involving multiple layers of protection. Epoxy injections are particularly effective for repairing small and medium-sized cracks in the foundation walls.
These techniques will effectively protect your commercial structure from future water intrusion problems while also extending its durability significantly.
Step 4: Cleanup & Maintenance
Once all the work is complete and your commercial building's foundation is successfully waterproofed, it's time for some cleanup. Your waterproofing contractor will remove any debris on the property that's a result of the waterproofing process.
They may also recommend setting up a maintenance plan to ensure that the waterproofing system remains effective over time. This usually involves periodic inspections and repairs if there are any signs of leakage or seepage.
Waterproofing your commercial building's foundation is essential to maintaining its safety and security over time. Note that this process can be complex and requires special attention to get it right. By following these steps, your contractor can ensure your space remains dry and protected against water intrusion year after year.
Contact a contractor to learn more about commercial foundation waterproofing.
