It is often seen that builders and developers are focused on the external design features of
the structure, while critical areas like waterproofing it often go unnoticed. Areas like wall
coatings, gaps between walls and tiling of the terrace area are ignored.
Major leakage issues in the buildings are in the dead wall. What is a dead wall, this term is
commonly used.
Dead wall is simply a ‘Wall’ without openings (i.e)a wall whose entire surface
is unbroken by a door , window or any other opening.
In the modern buildings there are these series of dead walls ,the height is the same as the height
of the building with sufficient open space in front of these walls to expose them to rigors of nature.
Due to high heat conditions, stifling humidity and incessant rains, external structures can
bear the brunt and cracks, leakages and seepages can develop in the building. It is for these
reasons that external waterproofing in Mumbai is an important factor during construction
stage itself.
Even the plushest and most exclusive high-rises can have leakage issues if
waterproofing hasn’t been carried out properly. Lack of waterproofing and preventive care for
external walls are often caused for expensive repairs later on.
How high-rise waterproofing is different
All high-rise buildings are exposed to high wind speeds which add to the problems created
by the abundant rainfall and heat the structure is exposed to. This increases the chances of
water seepage.
Generally speaking, it is within the first five years of completion of the
building that water seeps through its external walls. In order to prevent water ingress, it is
necessary to properly design and construct the building envelopes efficiently.
Proper designing at construction joints and building walls with adequate thickness are the
primary steps to be taken to avoid leakages. Also, gaps between walls can prove to be
cause for serious leakage through outer walls.
Mr.Leak comes knocking and washing our dreams affecting not only the exteriors of the
building but also our interiors. It affects the walls, furniture, fungal growth and odor which is a complete no.
Leakage in the flat due to external wall
Fungal growth
It can lead to lot of rework, especially the expensive internal wall paint, finishing and furniture.
Single-layer brick walls are often the most common cause of water leakage in high-rises as
most of the water seepage occurs through the cracks of the external walls.
Most professional experts and waterproofing contractors in Mumbai believe that merely
cement or exterior acrylic paint isn’t enough to protect a building structure from leakage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Exs7ysbPXFIhttp://
Do watch this video to know more on acrylic based polymer coating.
It is necessary to use a good quality acrylic emulsion polymer and combine it with the weather-
durable pigments and fillers and additives to help create a powerful barrier for water and
CO2 gas. This combination also helps in keeping it permeable to water vapour.
