Many homeowners find it necessary to invest in a waterproofing system for their home, especially if their home has a basement or cellar.
In modern home developments, it is often required by state or local regulations to have a waterproofing system installed before the completion of the home. Without the proper installation of a waterproofing system, your home is at risk for water damage.
In some areas, black mold is a frightful health concern. A good waterproofing system can help minimize water damage and the growth of black mold in prone areas. Other factors to consider when implementing a waterproofing system are the climate, landscape, weather and terrain of the area.
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Why do basements leak? Basements can leak for a multitude of reasons. Water can build up because of cracks in walls or the floor, improperly installed or no footer tiles, pressure build up from the floor or walls, leaks from sweating basement pipes and leaks from basement windows, and for many other reasons as well. Mold is a dead giveaway that your basement has leakage or condensation problems. In cases of mold, it is imperative that you seek a professional installer for your waterproofing system.
Roof leakage is another common reason to turn to waterproofing. Spray polyurethane waterproofing is a popular method for waterproofing roofs and has been a top choice in roof maintenance for more than 35 years. Waterproofing/leak prevention and insulation value, better compressive strength, lightweight, durable and long lasting effects are why many homeowners choose the spray polyurethane waterproofing method.
Polyurethane foam is sprayed in the cracks and crevices of your roof. Once applied, the foam expands to more than 30 times its normal size and dries into a very hard compound. The foam dries in a short time and provides a long-lasting, weather resistant coating. Because it is a very lightweight material, many homeowners and contractors recommend it for both large and small jobs.
Before applying a spray polyurethane-waterproofing compound, it is important to prepare your roof for the application. Your roof needs to be clean, dry and free from any environmental contaminants in order for the foam to be properly applied. Most modern polyurethane waterproofing foams are long lasting. You can expect a properly applied coating to last anywhere between 10 and 15 years. In some cases, it has been reported that this foam has lasted for up to 50 years.
by Peter Emerson
