Why is Deck and Balcony Waterproofing Important?
Deck and Balcony waterproofing may appear to be supplemental, but it is more important than people assume. It is a prudent decision that safeguards the property and its value.
Decks and Balconies are raised horizontal platforms made of wood, concrete, or other materials, constructed outdoors without enclosing walls or roofs. Because they are exposed to external elements, they are more prone to weathering and damage. Waterproofing decks and balconies provides a protective surface to prevent water infiltration, which can lead to rapid deterioration.
Why Decks and Balconies Need Waterproofing
Wood is one of the most common materials for decks. Untreated wooden decks degrade, warp, swell, and absorb water over time. They also get deformed as they dry and contract over time. Waterproofing wooden decks extends their useful life by preventing water absorption, moisture buildup, and rot.
Similarly, concrete balconies need waterproofing to block water penetration which is important in structure longevity. Water can enter concrete through structural or shrinkage cracks or penetrations for the railing. During the winter, the moisture trapped in the concrete freezes. When water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the concrete and can cause it to break away.
Moreover, many balconies use steel reinforcing bars and cantilevers for support. When water enters the balcony via cracks or gaps in the surface, it can cause the steel to oxidize or rust. Oxidation also puts outward pressure on the concrete, creating fissures that allow more water or moisture buildup. Corrosion also degrades the rebar on the molecular level, compromising the balcony’s structural integrity.
Another common problem with decks and balconies is water ponding. This is the accumulation of water on the surface when it rains. Rooftop decks usually have these issues. Without an effective waterproofing system, these puddles can damage not only the surface but also the building’s interiors.
Waterproofing is a long-lasting surface solution that protects decks and balconies from wear and damage caused by moisture. When properly applied, waterproofing can protect residential or commercial deck structures for up to 25–30 years.
Benefits of Deck and Balcony Waterproofing
- Protection Against Water Damage
If the deck or balcony is not waterproofed, water will fill in the holes and crevices, causing it to rot from the inside out. The interior of a property can also deteriorate if the rooftop deck is not properly waterproofed. Repairing water damage is very expensive, so it is more cost-effective to invest in waterproofing early on.
- Prevents Mold Growth
Once moisture builds up on the deck or balcony, mold and mildew will multiply. This poses health risks as these organisms produce spores that project into the air and can enter the lungs. Additionally, it is difficult to treat and restore moldy materials. Most of the time, they require replacement.
- Improves Safety
Waterproof coatings keep decks and balconies clear of slick areas caused by standing water. Waterproofing methods also produce a high-traction surface for normal foot traffic. It also preserves the deck’s structural integrity and overall safety by preventing rot, decay, and other water damage.
- Increases Property Value
Waterproofing is a critical home improvement that increases a property’s value. If property owners forego it, severe moisture-related issues will undoubtedly lower the value of the commercial or residential building. Mold growth and water damage raise a red warning flag on the property. Waterproofing is a measure that will assist in improving the asset’s worth.
Methods of Deck and Balcony Waterproofing
There are various ways to waterproof decks and balconies, like a private patio or a rooftop area. The suitability of each method depends on the deck’s material and function.
- Cementitious Waterproofing
It is a concrete waterproofing technique that uses polymer coatings in the form of an epoxy or latex mixture. This method can produce a robust and long-lasting moisture barrier for concrete decks. It is breathable and protects concrete and masonry surfaces. It guards against water damage and fends off mold and mildew.
- Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
The liquid waterproofing membrane method uses a thin covering that is often placed in two coats over a priming coat. The durability of this waterproofing technique will depend on the polymer used in the liquid membrane.
- Bituminous Coating Waterproofing
Bituminous coatings have water-repelling properties, which makes them effective in preventing moisture from touching sensitive substrates. These coatings are also strong, adaptable, and resistant to UV and chemical deterioration.
- Bituminous Membrane Waterproofing
The bituminous waterproofing membranes are applied by spreading them out and firmly adhering to the surface using tar-based adhesives and blowtorches. The exposed side of the membrane can endure weathering due to its granular mineral aggregate.
Partnering with Engineers on Deck and Balcony Waterproofing
Waterproofing decks and balconies may seem simple, but it requires a lot of consideration to achieve desired surface protection and durability. For example, waterproofing specific decks entails creating adequate ventilation spaces to let moisture move through the surface. This may require the installation of pipes and drainage systems. It could also mean rerouting electrical wires to make space for these additions without compromising the structure.
Furthermore, the methods and materials used for waterproofing are largely determined by the deck and balcony position and its level of exposure. A qualified commercial building engineer NJ can recommend the ideal waterproofing system for the structure. This may comprise a variety of cementitious polymer-based coatings, mastic asphalt or liquid-applied membranes, slurries, or even the inventive application of epoxy coatings.
An engineer can also specify the appropriate waterproofing system for a property deck after a commercial building inspection NJ. The building inspection engineer NJ will evaluate the structure’s demand for waterproofing through an evaluation. They can work with other specialists who have technical knowledge of the proper techniques for building a waterproofing system, like surface preparation, thinning, mixing, and application.
Conclusion
Decks and Balconies are functional outdoor spaces for both commercial and residential properties. Keeping these structures serviceable and in top shape for a long time includes waterproofing them. Waterproofing blocks water and other substance infiltration, preventing damage and prolonging the deck’s useful life.
Lockatong Engineering can help property owners assess their decks and balconies before waterproofing them. This evaluation is important to identify the correct waterproofing technique that the structure requires. The insight of a commercial building inspector NJ provides that the other systems are taken into consideration and that the waterproofing materials and methods used are appropriate for the asset’s specific condition.
Contact Lockatong Engineering today to consult with a professional about deck waterproofing in New Jersey.
