7-Step Guide To Waterproofing Your Exterior Walls
If you are new to the concept of waterproofing your exterior walls, you should know that they are exposed to rainwater or high humidity. In such cases, the water and moisture travels through the masonry and affects your internal walls.
For many homeowners, this is a common problem — especially because the walls may stay damp for a long time before they dry out. This can also trigger the growth of mold and add damage to your walls and property in general.
If you live in a humid area, the wall damage may even extend and lead to water penetration. In such cases, you probably need a masonry contractor in Garland, TX. But if you want to prevent water and mold growth from affecting your walls, you should know what to do and make sure that your exterior walls are properly waterproofed.
Today, we are listing the seven step guide to waterproofing your exterior walls!
Step 1: Start by spotting potential faults in your walls
Waterproofing your external walls in Garland is best done if the walls become damp as a result of rainwater or moisture. This is why you should check your walls for possible faults and eliminate causes of structural dampness.
Anything from cracks in your bricks to condensation in the wall to burst pipes may lead to this problem. However, once you fix the issue, you can apply your waterproofer as a preventative measure.
Step 2: Clean your (clogged) gutters
Clogged gutters create a lot of problems. For instance, they tend to flow over the edge and down your walls. Besides this, they retain rainwater which is absorbed by the roof’s wood or fascia boards and may lead to a series of problems such as rotten wood, leaks and mold.
One simple gutter cleaning can help you prevent all of these problems.
Step 3: Choose the right waterproofer
Ok, it’s about time you choose a waterproofer. In times when there is a full list of waterproofing products available to help homeowners protect their homes from external moisture, you should consider products such as the following.
Choose concrete waterproofing coating for concrete and masonry – it can be applied to any masonry surface.
Choose silicate-based concrete sealer as the best way to form a waterproofing coating. This material targets the ingredients in masonry and concrete, forming the coating, and can be used on unsealed and unpainted walls too.
Choose a waterproofing paint for an optimal waterproofing performance. Make sure to select a breathable formula that is designed to allow your walls to breathe and therefore eliminate and prevent moisture.
Step 4: Get a plaster waterproofing additive
If you haven’t heard about plastering, it is a great way to improve your aesthetics and make your walls more solid. It will in turn prevent moisture ingress from forming. Even though most of the exterior plasters have waterproofing characteristics, you can prevent the water infiltration problems from appearing again by using a waterproofing additive to the plaster.
Step 5: Prepare your walls for the waterproofer
No matter what product you have chosen for waterproofing your exterior walls in Garland, TX – the best way to start is by preparing your walls for the actual waterproofing. Here, you can use a good-quality filter and repair the cracks and patch holes.
Just allow the filler to dry optimally before grinding and sand away the excess material, making sure that the areas are even and dust-free. Let the walls dry before applying the waterproofer.
Step 6: Use a roller/brush to apply the waterproofer
It’s time to apply the waterproofer.
Ideally, you should use a roller or a brush to do that. If your walls require a second coat, make sure that the first coat is fully dried and then apply the second coat. Make sure to use enough product to create a barrier against infiltration.
Step 7: Test the results
A water-tightness test is very important for evaluating the effectiveness of the products you use for waterproofing your exterior walls.
To test the results, you should spray water on the wall surface for a couple of hours, keeping your nozzle at a 30-degree angle. Your home will only pass the test if the moisture meter shows that there is no moisture at all.
If the process of waterproofing looks complex to you, there is a better alternative that we can offer.
At Alexander and Xavier Masonry, we specialize in waterproofing and can do the job professionally. By using our services, you can prevent serious damage to your exterior walls and boost the value of your home.
If you are interested in hearing more details, contact us today!
Hire a waterproofing expert in Garland, TX now.
