Here are the top 7 Waterproofing mistakes homeowners make and how to avoid them. Waterproofing your home is an important step in protecting it from the elements. However, many homeowners make common mistakes that can compromise the waterproofing of their homes. This blog post will discuss some of the most common mistakes when waterproofing a home and how to avoid them.

Puncturing the Waterproofing Membrane

Puncturing the Waterproofing Membrane after installation is one of the most common mistakes made during the waterproofing process. This can happen when walking on the membrane or installing fasteners or other materials. To avoid this, be careful not to puncture the membrane and ensure that any fasteners are installed properly.

Another common mistake is failing to seal around penetrations in the membrane. This includes pipes, drains, and other openings through the waterproofing layer. If these penetrations are not properly sealed, water can leak through them and cause damage to your home. Make sure to seal around all penetrations before applying the waterproofing membrane.

Applying a Thick Layer of Mortar or Concrete over the Waterproofing Membrane

One of the most common waterproofing mistakes is applying a thick layer of mortar or concrete over the membrane. This can happen when a contractor is trying to level out a surface before applying tile or another type of finish. The problem with this method is that it can create a barrier that prevents the waterproofing membrane from doing its job. If you apply mortar or concrete over the membrane, ensure it’s no more than ¼ inch thick.

Not Applying a Waterproofing Membrane to the Shower Pan

Another common mistake is not applying a waterproofing membrane to the shower pan. The shower pan is the bottom of the shower where the drain is located. Waterproofing this area is critical because it’s where the most water will be. Without a waterproof barrier, water can seep into the cracks and crevices, causing problems down the road.

Forgetting About the Walls

Another common waterproofing mistake is forgetting about the walls. Waterproofing should be applied to both the floor and walls of the shower. Failure to do so can result in leaks and other problems. Make sure you apply a generous amount of waterproofing material to the walls and use a brush or roller to spread it evenly.

Not Applying Angle Fillet At Inside Corners

Applying angle fillets at inside corners is one of the most important waterproofing techniques, yet it’s often overlooked. An angle fillet is a strip of waterproofing material placed at the junction of two surfaces, such as where the wall meets the floor. It helps to seal the joint and prevent water from seeping through. Make sure you apply an angle fillet before you apply any finish, such as tile or grout.

Insufficient Attention to Pipes and Penetrations

One of the most common waterproofing mistakes is insufficient attention to pipes and penetrations. Waterproofing systems are only as good as their weakest link, and often that weak link is around pipes and penetrations. Make sure you take the time to fully seal these areas before applying any waterproofing system.

Products and Preparation

Omitting priming the surface or substrate before waterproofing is one of the most common mistakes homeowners make. Failing to properly prime can lead to a number of problems, including poor adhesion, bubbling, and peeling.

Another mistake is using the wrong type of waterproofing for the project. There are many different types of waterproofing products on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the wrong product for your project can result in subpar results or complete failure.

Applying to waterproof too thinly is another error that is often made. In order to be effective, waterproofing must be applied thick enough to create a continuous barrier against water infiltration. Skimping on thickness will result in leaks and other problems.

Properly waterproofing your home is essential to protecting it from water damage. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your waterproofing project is a success.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your next waterproofing project, contact us as soon as possible. We are here to help!

The post The Top 7 Waterproofing Mistakes Homeowners Make and How to Avoid Them appeared first on Aquatech Waterproofing.