The
process of making a structure water-resistant so that it remains relatively
unaffected by water or resisting the ingress of water under specified
conditions.
Water
resistant and waterproof often refer to
penetration of water in its liquid state and possibly under pressure. Damp proof refers
to resistance to humidity or dampness.
Roofing materials are generally
designed to be water-resistant and shed water from a sloping roof, Many types
of waterproof membrane systems are available, bituminous waterproofing, EPDM rubber, polyvinyl chloride, liquid
roofing, and more.
Damp proofing is
another aspect of waterproofing.
Masonry walls are built with a
damp-proof course to prevent rising damp
and the concrete in foundations and Basements are damp-proofed / waterproofed
with a liquid coating, waterproofing membrane, Box Treatment
or during the time of construction by adding an admixture to the concrete.
A
specialized area of waterproofing is roof top and balconies. One major problem in
the construction industry is the use of improper products with wrong
application techniques.
Waterproofing of roofs and
balconies is a complex of many complimentary elements such as the waterproofing
membrane used, adequate slope-drainage, proper flashing details, and proper
construction materials.
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