How water slowly destroys concrete

By Pli-Dek 

Protecting concrete from water damage is essential — and that's where waterproofing comes in. 

Water is concrete's silent enemy, creeping into tiny cracks and slowly breaking down even the most robust structures. We've all seen the telltale signs: crumbling sidewalks, pitted driveways and weakened walls that were once solid. But this isn't just an aesthetic issue; when water penetrates concrete, it can compromise the entire structure, from the surface to the rebar within. Before you know it, you're not just dealing with unsightly damage, but costly repairs and potential safety hazards. So, how can you keep concrete strong, clean and intact for years to come? Here at Pli-Dek we help explain that the answer lies in one crucial step: waterproofing. 

Water breaks concrete down

Not only does it start looking bad, but it’s also getting weaker. You have probably seen surface damage on a sidewalk or old mortar. The concrete erodes,  exposing matrix materials and base concrete. In extreme cases, water will destroy concrete quickly, but generally, it takes a few years to start showing. If you see damage on the surface of the concrete, it’s a safe bet the underlying structure of the wall or floor is damaged too. If you want a concrete project to maintain its strength and fresh appearance, you need to waterproof it.  Waterproofing concrete not only shields the surface but also helps protect the rebar within from rust and corrosion 

Some other benefits of waterproofing concrete

1.  It prevents mold and mildew from penetrating the walls and floor, making waterproofing crucial for both structural integrity and overall health. 
2.  It lowers maintenance costs and simplifies clean-up. Waterproof structures require far less effort after heavy rain or flooding, as the waterproofing helps keep things cleaner, making routine maintenance much easier. 
3. Waterproofed walls and floors increase property value. When the time comes to sell, a waterproofed basement or sub-floor is a good selling point. No one wants to buy a house with water problems. 

Things to do before waterproofing concrete

1. Make sure the surface is clean and dry. Use a scraper to remove old paint or wall/floor coverings. Sweep everything to ensure no dirt is hiding that you cannot see. If need be, use a warm water and soap mix to scrub walls or floors, making sure to rinse after you scrub.  Ensure it dries completely 
2. Patch all holes with a hydraulic expanding concrete mix. Allow the patches to dry for a minimum of 24 hours. 
3. Tape off all items extending onto the floor or the walls like stairs or electrical boxes. 

The importance of quality materials

Be sure to use high-quality products when waterproofing your concrete. Low-quality options can lead to wasted time and money. 

Original article and photo source: Pli-Dek