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Protecting a home from water damage is very crucial. One of the most important parts of any building is its exterior walls, which can sustain water damage due to their exposure to the outdoors. Living in Manhattan has its perks, historic brownstones, classic townhouses, and charming pre-war buildings. But these iconic structures also face one major challenge that is water damage. There are multiple reasons to waterproof house foundations from the outside. It can cause serious damage to a building's structure, resulting in costly repairs and even posing health risks to people living there. This is where exterior wall waterproofing can help you protect your building, avoid costly repairs, and maintain a safe and healthy living or working environment. However, waterproofing creates a barrier between exterior walls and water, helping to save water leaks and protect the building from damage.
New York City has unpredictable weather conditions, aging infrastructure, and dense housing conditions make properties at risk of water infiltration. In Manhattan, many homes share walls, have limited side yards, or sit on sloped lots with poor drainage. Exterior waterproofing is the process of creating a protective barrier around the outside of the home’s foundation and walls to block moisture and groundwater from entering.
The process commonly involves surface preparation, application of waterproofing admixtures, membranes, and especially powdered and waterproofing materials with crystallized concrete additives, drainage system installation, and backfilling. It’s a complete system, not just a single task and when its done properly it will help to
Various techniques and materials can be used in combination to waterproof the exterior of residential buildings . Here are the most common ways to waterproof exterior walls:
A licensed waterproofing contractor in Manhattan inspects the problem such as areas, soil grading, and any visible wall cracks. Before waterproofing, the surface of the exterior of the homes need to be insulated and is cleaned and prepared for waterproofing. This process involves removing materials such as dirt and dust from the wall surface
The next step is the application of exterior waterproofing. This is a method applied to exterior walls to create a barrier between the wall and any waterproofing material that may come into contact with it. Exterior waterproofing products are produced in many different ways today. This can include:
After applying the exterior waterproofing material, a drainage system is preferably installed to protect the waterproofing and thermal insulation applied in the foundation and curtain insulation of buildings. This method helps channel water away from the foundation walls and prevent it from seeping into the building. The drainage system consists of perforated pipes lined with gravel to help filter debris.
The last step in the process of waterproofing external walls is backfilling. This includes filling the cavity created by the excavation with soil. The soil is replaced and flattened carefully to avoid pressure on new membranes.
The process of exterior waterproofing involves the use of different materials to create a barrier. All materials are created equal, so these materials are selected carefully by the professional waterproofing contractors on the basis of their properties, durability, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. The materials selected for exterior wall waterproofing can depend on the type of building, its location, and the climate. Here are top choices that work well in NYC’s dense, diverse housing stock:
Bituminous membranes are made from asphalt or coal and applied to exterior walls of the homes in Manhattan to create a barrier against liquids. They are popular because they are affordable and provide excellent protection against water damage. Moreover, bituminous coatings can be easily applied and are generally cost-effective.
Crystalline waterproofing products provide excellent insulation for roofs, basements, terraces, and all other wet areas, form a self-crystallized structure when in contact with water due to its special formulation, filling the gaps in the concrete and creating a waterproof structure.These form insoluble crystals inside concrete pores, sealing them off permanently. Ideal for below-grade walls and foundations.
Cement-based waterproofing products are used to prevent water leakage and protect structures against water. These products are mixtures obtained by mixing cement, sand, polymer additives, and water. Due to their high adhesion performance and semi-flexible structure, they form a waterproof layer and provide a permanent waterproof coating. They are perfect for concrete or masonry surfaces.
The best exterior waterproofing system requires a little care to stay more effective with the passage of time. Home owners need to inspect their gutters and downspouts every season. Make sure they are free of leaves, twigs, or blockages that could cause water to overflow and pool near your place. Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of water damage after waterproofing.
Check the window wells for dust or standing water. Window wells that don’t drain properly can allow water to seep into your basement, clear leaves, dirt, or trash regularly is the key to saving your home from water leakage.
Must focus on the grading of the soil around the home. If you notice water pooling near your space after rain, you may need to upgrade the soil so it slopes away from the house. Proper grading directs water away, reducing pressure on your waterproofing system.
Inspect the caulking and expansion joints around windows, doors, and other exterior features at least once a year. Cracked or damaged caulk can let moisture in, so replace or repair it quickly.
By following these simple maintenance steps, you can keep your waterproofing system working effectively for years to come.
Exterior wall waterproofing is essential for preserving the value, safety, and comfort of residential buildings in Manhattan. With the city's populated areas, unpredictable weather, and aging structures, homes are highly at risk to water infiltration. Investing in exterior waterproofing in Manhattan not only prevents costly damage but also ensures a healthier living environment free of mold and moisture. From inspection and material application to drainage systems and backfilling, every step requires expertise and precision
Working with professional waterproofing contractors is key to getting long-lasting results. Whether you are restoring a historic brownstone or maintaining a modern house, prioritizing exterior work for residential buildings today. Contact us at Stenco Construction we offer expert exterior waterproofing solutions tailored for NYC buildings. Schedule a free consultation today and safeguard your home for decades to come
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