We all love the rain - until it starts leaking into our homes. That’s why waterproofing is crucial during construction. Learn why it matters and how to avoid costly mistakes in the future.

Monsoons are delightful until an unexpected drip inside the home turns joy into panic, bringing damp walls, mould, and costly repairs. While aesthetics matter when building a home, waterproofing in construction is just as crucial to prevent such issues.

• Flooded basement

• Mould growth

• Discoloured walls or ceiling (yellow, brown or dark patches)

• Peeling paint from the walls and ceiling

• Uneven flooring or loose tiles

• Noticeable water stains on the ceiling and walls

• An unpleasant or musty smell from the space

• Rotting wooden furniture

• Excessive moisture in the interiors

Ignoring these signs doesn’t just lead to aesthetic damage; it weakens your home’s structure, affects indoor air quality, and can result in expensive repairs down the line.

• Cracked foundations or walls act as entry points for water, especially during rains

• Non-application of waterproofing to the houses’ foundation

• Flat or poorly sloped terraces and roofs

• Faulty pipes or plumbing fixtures

• Clogged or poorly functioning drainage system

• Open gaps and joints around doors and windows

• Damaged waterproofing layer for house

• Waterproofing house foundation prevents structural deterioration.

• The application of a waterproof course minimises long-term maintenance costs from water-related damages. For example, while buildings generally require repainting every 5-7 years, water damage can reduce the cycle to just 2 years, significantly increasing expenses.

• Damp interiors lead to the growth of mildew, bacteria, and mould, triggering allergies. A waterproof house leads to healthier interiors.

• Waterproofing enhances the overall lifespan of the home by protecting visible and hidden elements from moisture. A well-maintained roof with high-quality waterproofing techniques can remain durable for 20-30 years.

• Waterproofing bathrooms, kitchens, and wet spaces prevents interiors from damage, preserving the charm of the house along with functionality.

• Seepage near electrical systems can lead to short circuits, equipment failures, or even fires. Waterproofing minimises these safety risks.

• Buyers always prefer a damp-free and mould-free home. Waterproofing houses help enhance the property’s value.

1. Foundation

The foundation and walls are one of the primary defences against water seepage.

However, poor construction quality, faulty drainage, and cracks can often lead to dampness and weakened structure.

Ensure to waterproof the foundation in new construction to prevent dampness from seeping into walls from below ground.

2. Roof and balconies

Your roof and balconies face direct exposure to harsh weather - from blazing sun to torrential rains.

Without proper waterproofing, water can seep through cracks, causing ceiling leaks, peeling paint, and even structural damage.

Don’t overlook the visible roof damages, like missing shingles, as leaving them unaddressed can weaken the structure.

3. Basements

Don’t allow your basements to get flooded in the rain.

Make sure to install proper drainage systems and apply cementitious waterproofing to prevent costly damage to your house.

4. Kitchen and bathrooms

These spaces of the home are hubs of moisture with frequent water usage.

Whether you’re planning or remodelling these spaces, ensure they are effectively waterproofed to prevent moisture-related concerns.

5. Parapet walls

Prevent water infiltration by effectively waterproofing parapet walls. One of the simplest methods is to cap the wall with a 3-inch thick Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) band with sloped coping on the top, which acts as a protective barrier against rainwater seepage.

Coping serves as a protective covering on the top of the wall, with a slight slope and overhang designed to channel water away from the wall surface, reducing the risk of seepage.

6. Water tanks

Preserve the stored water in concrete tanks by effectively waterproofing the internal and external surfaces.

• Lime terracing

In this technique, a waterproofing layer is created with lime and sprayed on the terrace.

• Traditional brickbat coba

Brickbat coba terracing refers to laying flat bricks on the roof slab, which is further sealed with dense cement slurry.

• Acrylic-based waterproofing course

The modern acrylic coats are applied to the terrace for long-lasting protection against water seepage.

• Cementitious waterproofing

In this method, cement-based coatings are applied on the roof as waterproof barriers.

• Bituminous waterproofing

This technique involves the addition of bitumen on the roof as a protection layer against water seepage. While it can be applied on residential roofs, it’s more common in commercial buildings.

The accurate cost of waterproofing depends upon variables like total area, choice of waterproofing solution, areas to be waterproofed, etc.

Here is a breakup of the average cost per area:

• Don’t skip the installation of waterproofing at the foundation level. Below-ground and foundation waterproofing can’t be fixed later without extensive demolition.

• Don’t overlook leaky taps or faulty pipes, as these can eventually cause dampness and water seepage.

• Don’t allow contractors to cut corners- improper slopes can lead to water stagnation on roofs, balconies, and bathrooms.

• Don’t cover up damp walls without fixing the root cause, as it might again lead to moisture-related damage.

• Don’t miss out on seeking expert guidance during the selection and installation of the waterproofing course.

• Don’t leave the patches or cracks in the walls open. Even hairline cracks can allow moisture to seep in. Ensure a solid, seamless surface before applying waterproofing layers.