During the monsoon season, problems like excess of moisture within the indoors and water seepage from the walls or windows can create a favourable environment for the growth of mould and mildew. Water can penetrate into the walls through external cracks of the building, leaky pipes or leakages from the roof and adjacent bathrooms. To combat these problems, one can consider waterproof paints and tiled surfaces to prevent dampness within the home.
Before sealing the walls and floors with waterproof paints or tiles, it is essential to repair the cracks, active leakages and any other source of rainwater penetration.
Waterproof Paint Surfaces
- Masonry paint is best suited for the external surfaces of the building. It is highly durable, dirt-resistant and offers very good protection from water. Also masonry paint resists the growth of algae and fungi.
- Epoxy paint is highly recommended for the flooring as it forms a highly durable surface which can prevent water penetration. Epoxy paint is also also known as damp proof paint and is best suited for the flooring of garages and factories.
- Acrylic paints can be used on the external walls and the internal walls of the building. Since acrylic paints are elastic they have very good resistance against water and can expand or contract without splitting.
Waterproof Tile Surfaces
- Popular tiles like ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles and vitrified tiles can be used for waterproofing the walls and flooring as they are impervious to water.
- The indoor tiles and outdoor tiles are available in a variety of sizes, colours and patterns hence not just solving the issue of hiding the treated damp walls but also gives a fresh look to the entire space.
- The best part about installing tiles is that it forms a waterproof surface which prevents dampness and seepage of water. Make it a point to install an elastomeric sheet membrane on the substrate before the installation of floor or wall tiles. Use waterproof adhesives to fix the tiles on the substrate and use epoxy grout between each tile as it is waterproof, durable and resistant to external weather
Although waterproof paint and waterproof tiles are popular methods of waterproofing the wall and floor surfaces, tiles are a better alternate to wall paint in the long run. Tiles are permanent and easier to clean while it is important to recoat the paint after a few years. Additionally tiles have an aesthetically pleasing appearance and look brand new for years to come.
