Proper application of waterproofing systems is essential for preventing moisture and water penetration through various areas of a building to protect the structure against water damage. With the huge selection of waterproofing products available on today's construction market, you might be confused about what products are right for your needs. 

If leaks appear after construction is finalised, the cost of building repair will far exceed the cost of installing a quality waterproofing system. Therefore, you have to do your waterproofing system installation job correctly the first time.

Here are some essential factors to consider when selecting waterproofing supplies for your building construction project.

Is your project above-grade or below-grade?

Whether your job is above-grade or below-grade should be a primary consideration when you are buying waterproofing products. Above-grade projects are not exposed to similar conditions as below-grade projects, hence the same waterproofing products won't work well for both applications.

In addition to creating a watertight barrier, above-grade waterproofing systems should adapt well to temperature fluctuations, resist UV light damage, and in some cases, look nice. Below-grade waterproofing systems, on the other hand, will need to withstand the unique challenges such as continual hydrostatic pressure and water contamination, which may be posed by their below-ground installation. 

Which material are you waterproofing?

Waterproofing can be installed over a wide range of structural substrates, including concrete, timber, brick, cement fibre boards and gypsum boards. Many types of waterproofing systems are available for waterproofing different materials due to their varied porosity levels. 

When choosing waterproofing products for your particular application, be sure to choose products that are specifically made for the material you intend to waterproof.

How long can your waterproofing system last?

The durability of waterproofing products varies widely from manufacturer to manufacturer. Because the cost of building repairs aimed at fixing leaking waterproofing systems almost always far exceeds the cost of installing quality waterproofing systems, you're better off choosing products that offer durable performance. 

When shopping around for waterproofing products, you will notice that prices can vary widely from manufacturer to manufacturer. You should avoid looking for the cheapest price because it may be a sign of a low-quality product. On the other hand, quality products are not necessarily the most expensive. Focus on choosing high-quality waterproofing materials that match your project requirements, fit within your budget range and will last long. For more information on waterproofing materials and supplies for buildings, talk to a local waterproofing contractor.

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