Houses have been damp-proofed for years, but are they waterproofed? Aren’t these two the same procedures? If you are constructing or renovating your home, there is a good chance that you’re wondering what is different between these two terms. Damp proofing is very different from the waterproofing process, while both are undoubtedly important to ensure your property’s structural integrity and longevity.
Understanding the Difference Between Damp Proofing and Waterproofing
Waterproofing keeps water in all forms from penetrating a surface, which includes soil moisture, water vapour, and water under hydrostatic pressure. On the other hand, damp proofing only retards the progress of moisture, in absence of hydrostatic pressure. This means that it won’t stop liquid water from passing through cracks. That’s why home waterproofing is more effective than damp proofing. This is an important difference to consider when making a decision. If you live in subtropical climates, damp proofing might not be enough to protect your home’s structure.
The two processes not only use different construction materials, but also their applications differ in terms of the applied thickness and conditions. Home waterproofing involves materials that are flexible and elastic in nature. They are applied in thicker layers to offer greater and long-term protection to the structure. For instance, you could try Berger Paints’ waterproofing products like Dampstop, which has flexible re-dispersible polymers with special additives that provide strong protection from hydrostatic pressure.
In comparison, damp proofing has a shorter lifespan. Regardless of the application, these products last only up to 2 years. Moreover, damp-proofing is difficult on existing foundations, as they don’t create a watertight seal.
What is the Benefit of Home Waterproofing Over Damp Proofing?
Those struggling with the adverse effects of dampness in the walls understand how difficult it is to repeat the repair process every year. Dampness can cause discolouration of walls and other surfaces that make them look unclean. That’s why homeowners often feel the need to get a paint job done every year.
People often wonder what damp proof paint is. Damp-proof paints contain a water-reactive agent that deals with residual surface moisture. It can be used as a primer to be applied before a decorative paint coating. However, the problem is that damp-proof paints can’t address the issue if there is a structural fault. It may not stop dampness from reoccurring. For it to be effective, you need to ensure that the wall is devoid of any previous coating of paint.
Damp proofing coating is usually sprayed on or applied to the wall from outside. It is seldom used in modern residential construction due to its drawbacks. For instance, it can’t seal larger cracks or holes created by form ties or deal with the damage done by coarse or careless backfill.
Quality waterproofing can lead to a strong, beautiful, and long-lasting home that requires less maintenance and repair. Waterproofing your ceiling, walls, and roof cracks are necessary to ensure a holistic solution. It could also be necessary for the basement, water tanks, swimming pools, and decks.
Apart from preventing mildew growth, waterproofing will prevent metals from rusting and wooden furniture from decaying. Overall, it will increase the value of your property, make your life more convenient and protect your family from health risks associated with moisture in the walls. For a complete waterproofing solution, you can opt for Berger’s Home Shield waterproofing solutions, carefully carried out by their Express Painting experts.
Let’s take a quick look at the difference between Waterproofing and Damp proofing :
| Waterproofing | Damp Proofing |
| All polymer composition | Uses unmodified asphalt |
| Stops water flow under hydrostatic pressure | Can’t stop water under hydrostatic pressure |
| Ensures flexibility and elasticity at low temperatures | Brittle at low temperatures |
Scientific Waterproofing Solutions- No Gyaan, Only Vigyan!
We recommend choosing Berger’s scientific waterproofing solutions, as they have products designed specifically for every area. For instance, Berger’s Wall Shield 2K has water-insoluble crystalline micro-structures to ensure good bonding, preventing moisture from passing through the gaps. Similarly, there are the roofs or areas that typically have water pipes like bathrooms and kitchens. You can also choose from a range of tiling solutions that include tail adhesives, grouts, and other products for residential and commercial uses. If all this is still confusing, it’s best to leave it to Berger Paints Express Painting experts. They will use the Home Shield Moisture Meter to detect moisture content in your walls. The tool can also help locate trapped moisture in walls, ceilings, and floors. With an accurate diagnosis, experts will suggest scientific solutions to fight wall dampness, leakages, and cracks. The services come with a warranty to give you complete peace of mind.
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