subject: Why Is Waterproofing Concrete Necessary? [print this page] The average person takes the strength and durability of concrete for granted. What is often forgotten about is that concrete is porous so it will absorb water when exposed to it.
Waterproofing concrete is easy to have done, and is quite affordable.
To understand the importance of waterproofing concrete, having a basic understanding of how it is made will help. It is a mixture of gravel, crushed rock, and sand. Added to this is cement which binds all the other components together. Depending on the manufacturer there could be other compounds added to the concrete, and there will be variances of the different types of crushed rock used. To whatever combination of dry mixture is finally composed, water has to be added to it so it can be formed in the shape that is required.
Once the concrete has been poured and allowed to dry it becomes concrete that is equal in strength to rock. Now one would think that once it has reached this state that nothing could harm it. This way of thinking it one of the biggest reasons that you will eventually see corrosion take place in objects that are made of this material. Most dont realize that because it will absorb water it needs some type of sealer applied to it.
After a few years of an item being made of concrete being exposed to the elements such as water it will begin to break down both in strength and appearance. This is not so devastating for small items, but when you consider that buildings and their accessories are comprised from this material then it is of extreme importance to protect it. The cost of repairs to concrete structures that have been compromised by water absorption can be very costly. Plus repaired sections can look unsightly.
If structures made from this material begin to breakdown then it could get to the point where it would be unsafe. Many homes and office buildings site on concrete blocks. An astute homeowner may not know when the concrete components in around his home where last treated. Waterproofing concrete demands no more than a proper application of a top quality sealant.
The cost compared to what potential repairs could be is minimal. Many of the products used for this now are friendly to the environment as well. This is a small step to take to provide some very valuable and needed protection.
