How Waterproofing Bitumen Protects Buildings from Water Damage

Waterproofing is one of the primary elements of building durability and integrity. If not waterproofed in structures, they are likely to leak, dampen, and degrade slowly with time. Waterproofing bitumen is the best type of protection bitumen used in buildings to prevent water damage. With durability, flexibility, and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, waterproofing bitumen has become in demand among many for residential and commercial constructions.

Waterproofing bitumen plays a significant role in the application of this product, which will be discussed in this blog. It also plays a crucial role in protecting buildings from damage through water.

What is Waterproofing Bitumen?

Waterproofing bitumen is a bituminous substance mixed with special additives that enhance its waterproofing properties. It is applied not only to the roofs but also to the foundation work and other protective coatings of buildings. As part of the nature of bitumen, it always avoids water penetration in structures; hence, it protects the structures for a considerable long time from moisture-induced damages.

There are two primary types of waterproofing bitumen used in construction:

• Bituminous membranes: flexible sheets applied to surfaces and are often used in roofing.
• Bituminous Coatings: Liquid-applied bitumen that forms a protective waterproof layer over surfaces.

Now, let’s dive into how waterproofing bitumen protects buildings from water damage.

Prevents Water Infiltration and Leaks

This waterproofing bitumen is used to ensure no water leakage through the structure. Water penetration might be suffered through cracks in the foundation, roof, or walls. If moisture enters the structure, it might cause further structural damage, mould growth, and decay of building materials.

Bitumen forms a robust and tight layer that prevents water entrance and ensures that moisture will not penetrate the walls of the building, roof, or foundation. Such an activity is beneficial for places that experience heavy rainfall, snowfall, or high humid conditions.

Protects the Foundation from Groundwater

The usual damage from water occurs on a building’s foundation, as it is ground-based and exposed constantly to groundwater. Dripping slowly into the foundation can cause cracks and jeopardise the structure’s integrity, resulting in costly repairs.

Exterior waterproofing of foundation walls is typically applied with bitumen, which prevents water penetration past the layers of the concrete. The seal will keep the water out, and the structure will not settle foundation problems, which creates many issues, including uneven floors and cracks in the walls.

The waterproofing bitumen ensures that the foundation keeps away all moisture elements, which in turn plays a vital role in the life span of a building.

Enhances Durability and Longevity of Roofs

Roofing materials are exposed to severe weather conditions throughout the year, such as heavy rain, snowfall, and intense sunlight. Hence, if not protected correctly, water damage in roofs leads to leaks and moulds, among other degradations of roofing materials.

Bitumen membranes are widely used in flat and low-slope roofed buildings due to their excellent waterproofing properties. It creates an imperceptible and continuous layer over the roof surface, preventing water penetration.

The third fundamental characteristic of bitumen is UV resistance. Aside from its water-repellent nature, UV resistance is one significant characteristic of bitumen, which can minimise damage from sunlight to the roofing and extend its service duration. This nature makes it an excellent choice for residential roofing systems as well as commercial roofing systems.

Prevents Mould and Mildew Growth

Moisture in buildings promotes an environment that fosters the growth of mould and mildew. Such fungi cause discolouration marks and unpleasant smells, exposing the occupants to serious health effects, especially those with allergic reactions or respiratory conditions.

They can avoid as much moisture accumulation as possible in the building, thus inhibiting the damp conditions needed by mould and mildew for their growth. Another advantage of the protective layer made of bitumen is that it maintains proper humidity levels inside the building.

Resists Extreme Weather Conditions

Waterproofed bitumen has the knack of enduring extreme weather conditions. Whether it’s heavy rain, snow, hail, or extreme heat, it does not matter. Bitumen does not budge; it remains in place with the characteristic of waterproofing.

It is vital, therefore, for buildings in regions of variable or adverse climate. Bitumen is flexible and does not crack nor lose adhesion during expansion or contraction of a tensile nature due to temperature changes. This would imply that the building remains protected year-round regardless of the prevailing weather conditions.

Cost-Effective Solution for Long-Term Protection

While many solutions exist, waterproofing bitumen probably remains one of the most accessible since it offers significant cost savings. The material is affordable and is easily found in most places. It is also reasonably durable, thus protecting it for extended periods against any water and moisture, and there is no frequent need to repair or replace it.

The long-term savings from avoiding costly water damage repairs and keeping a structure sound for years in the future is yet another way that investing in waterproofing bitumen will benefit building owners.

Conclusion

Waterproofing with bitumen is essential in protecting buildings against water damage. From leakage prevention to building foundations through resistance against groundwater action, roof durability enhancement for long life, and resistance to mould, bitumen provides waterproofing requirements. Its strength in terms of the ability to withstand harsh weather and offer long-term protection, in turn, makes it a popular choice among many contractors and building owners.

But by using waterproofing bitumen, you are investing in the material and the long-term safety and integrity of your building.

For more information about waterproofing bitumen or to explore our waterproofing services, contact Petroline today!