Why Waterproofing Cannot Be Overlooked?

Waterproofing, as the name suggests, serves as protection for a building against the harmful effects of moisture and water. One of the first stages of construction work is soil analysis, which allows us to determine the necessary type of waterproofing for a given building.

The underground sections of a building are constantly exposed to groundwater. Failure to properly waterproof the foundation may result in water accumulation in the basement, which negatively impacts the entire structure. Excess moisture in the air adversely affects both the building materials and its occupants, potentially leading to mold and mildew formation in the future.

Foundation waterproofing is a fundamental aspect that should not be neglected. However, it is also crucial to protect other structural elements of the building, such as walls and ceilings, the roof, balconies, terraces, and bathrooms. If a structure is not adequately protected from water, temperature fluctuations, and air infiltration, serious problems may arise in a short period of time.

Types of Waterproofing

The primary purpose of waterproofing is to protect key parts of a building from water exposure, which could compromise structural integrity. Waterproofing can be categorized based on its placement within the building structure:

• Horizontal waterproofing (applied under the flooring or at the top of the foundation walls)
• Vertical waterproofing (applied to walls)

However, the most common classification is based on the type of water threat:

• Waterproof insulation (hydroizolacja przeciwwodna) – protects against groundwater pressure and penetration.
• Damp-proof insulation (hydroizolacja przeciwwilgociowa) – prevents moisture penetration from non-pressurized water sources.

Waterproofing is also divided according to the level of water exposure risk:

• Heavy-duty waterproofing – used in areas exposed to pressurized water (e.g., basements or buildings in high groundwater conditions).
• Light-duty waterproofing – suitable for less critical applications, such as preventing lateral water infiltration in well-draining soils with low groundwater levels.

How to Save Money on Waterproofing?

The answer may seem paradoxical: the best way to save money on waterproofing is NOT to cut costs on high-quality materials and expert workmanship.

Investing in proper waterproofing during the construction phase is far more cost-effective than dealing with damaged or improperly applied waterproofing later. The costs of repairs and remediation far exceed the initial investment in quality waterproofing solutions.

Over time, only the effects of the problem can be treated, not its cause. Water migrates, meaning that the source of an issue may be located far from the visible damage, such as peeling plaster or damp patches on walls. In some cases, it is impossible to predict the future threats to a building's foundation. Even single-family homes constructed near an investment property can alter groundwater levels, increasing water pressure on the structure.

Imagine a situation where, 10 years after construction, a residential housing estate is built nearby. Groundwater levels may shift, subjecting the foundation to pressurized water—a condition that damp-proofing alone cannot withstand. In such cases, it is best to use full waterproofing protection.

The first step before construction should always be a soil survey, which helps in selecting the right waterproofing system.

• Damp-proofing is sufficient for buildings on permeable soils like sand and gravel.
• If groundwater levels fluctuate, only waterproof insulation provides a high level of security.

Why Waterproofing is Essential

Skipping waterproofing will inevitably lead to financial and structural losses in the future. Repairing failed waterproofing and drying out a building is a complex and expensive process.

A structure exposed to prolonged moisture deteriorates faster. Damp walls may develop harmful mold and fungi, posing serious health risks to occupants.

The solution? Prevention is always better than remediation. A properly applied waterproofing system, installed during the construction phase, ensures that the structure remains intact for decades.