The Basics Of How To Protect Concrete From Moisture

By Author: Michael Gilmore
Total Articles: 321
Comment this article

Whether you know it or not but concrete is extremely porous by nature; which means the material absorbs water, very quickly. Considering the fact that concrete is used for residential and commercial construction works, it is important to keep a note that the material in use can become breeding ground for bacteria and mould; thus, affecting the quality of environment at a residential or commercial building.
 
Furthermore, its fact that concrete being widely used to construct basement walls, outdoor walkways, interior and exterior walls, should be treated for moisture resistance to ensure structures constructed with it do not retain moisture or water which can further lead to mould and bacterial buildup. Plus, there is a tendency for concrete to catch rainwater through crevices, holes and cracks, making the build more vulnerable to mildew and mould growth.
 
This is a reason why experts suggest moisture control for residential and commercial concreting works in Whyalla. In scenarios like these, the role of Concrete Masonry Units ...
... becomes more prominent because these building materials are considered extremely effective in repelling water. Furthermore, the concrete masonry units can be used for avoiding mould buildup, and condensation.
 
Why Experts Suggest That Concrete Need to Be Treated to Prevent Mould Growth?
Although many experts claim that mould is essential to pave way for an ecological balance, on the flipside these kinds of microorganisms are considered dangerous as they cause physical harm to humans, by polluting the air quality. Furthermore, mould growth leads to the production of an acid which can result in compromised structural integrity.
 
Another scary fact about mould that will literally cause you to appoint residential and commercial concreting experts in Whyalla is, the microorganism mostly feeds on bacteria or particles that get trapped in concrete. As they eat away the bacteria, pollen, dirt and dust, the concrete structure in question becomes more porous and leads water to enter through those pores. With this, the structure weakens and faces deterioration.
 
Also, mould growth can lead to major risks for humans since the organisms produce volatile organic compounds, which upon inhaling or touching can easily lead to allergic reactions causing respiratory problems.
 
If you want to prevent a concrete structure from falling apart, prevent water from seeping into the structure or stop condensation. Both are considered highly malevolent for residential and commercial concreting in Whyalla. They cause the units to degrade with time. If you seriously want to take action against moisture buildups and condensation, first control the situation by following the guidelines mentioned here:
 
Prioritizing Waterproofing During Initial Construction Phase
Before a wall gets constructed using concrete, it is crucial that you include waterproofing into the process. Integrate waterproofing methods by reinforcing water repellents and CMUs that promise highly efficient condensation control. You can also use air barriers or vapour retarders that will reduce water retention in a structure. Using rain gaps that sit away from water resistant barriers is an effective approach to keep moisture from seeping into the structure.
 
Using Concrete Sealers
When penetrating sealer is applied, water or moisture cannot seep into concrete. The sealers create protective layers by filling gaps around adjoining surfaces. Without the concrete sealers water can enter through the gaps and disintegrate a structure.
 
If you want to maintain a residential or commercial concreting structure in Whyalla, what is most important is to restore its structural integrity by preventing moisture from seeping in.
 
About the Author: This contribution has been made by Michael Gilmore who has written a number of articles on Commercial Concreting Whyalla and provides fruitful information.