Waterproofing concrete slab roof structures have become an indispensable practice in modern architecture. As concrete rooftops continue to gain popularity, there is a need to protect them from the elements that can compromise their lifespan, including rain.
The fact that concrete roof slabs are long-lasting roofing materials doesn’t make them immune to damage. That’s why it’s essential to waterproof the concrete roofing structures to prolong their lifespan. It will save you money on future repairs.
If you have no idea how to waterproof a concrete roof, worry no more. This guide looks at all the steps of waterproofing concrete roof slab pieces. You will also learn all the factors to consider when waterproofing concrete slab roof structures.
But before we get started, let’s look at the benefits of waterproofing a concrete slab roof.
Benefits of Concrete Slab Roof Waterproofing
Adding waterproofing to concrete roofing comes with numerous benefits. Here are some reasons you should always waterproof concrete roof structures.
- Strengthens the Roofing Structure
Adding the right waterproofing to the concrete roof slabs will make the roof more robust, prolonging its lifespan. Due to the added protection, any moisture or water will not get through. As a result, the structure won’t rot, rust, or deteriorate.
- Prevents Mold Growth on the Roof
Waterproofing concrete roof slabs goes beyond ensuring the roof structure’s integrity. It also prevents mold growth that could cause serious health problems. Some of the health issues that mold growth can cause include asthma, fever, skin allergies, and coughs.
- Reduces Roof Maintenance Costs
Water damages can interfere with electrical work, woodwork, or property items in your property. However, when your concrete roofing is free from water damages, it will save you from expensive repairs due to the few maintenance requirements.
- Raises a Property’s Value
No one would want to invest in a property with roof leak problems. So, waterproofing a concrete roof will increase your property’s value and make it sell faster. In addition, the waterproof material will protect the roof from structural damages caused by water.
- Creates a Healthy Living Environment
Any building vulnerable to water damage poses significant risks to occupants. If you install the best waterproofing system on your concrete roof, you will establish a clean living or working space. It will also safeguard your property and the people inside it.
Things to Consider When Choosing Waterproofing for Concrete Roof Slab Structures
The roof is usually the most exposed structure of a building as it gets affected directly by the rain, wind, and sunlight. For that reason, any concrete roof should have a design that allows it to drain water. No water should seep through the roof by any means.
Now that you know the benefits of waterproofing a concrete roof, you need to invest in the best waterproofing material for your roof. You might wonder how you’ll find the best waterproofing that can improve your roof’s structural integrity.
A good waterproofing system highlights its installation or construction details, material specifications, and the required accessories to fix the waterproofing. Here are the factors to watch for when selecting waterproofing for concrete roofs.
- The Bonding Strength
The bonding strength matters when looking for the most effective waterproof solution. For that reason, you need to invest in a waterproof solution that bonds strongly with the concrete roof for maximum waterproofing capability.
- The Durability of the Waterproofing Material
How long will the waterproofing material maintain its effectiveness? The best waterproofing solution is durable and can protect the roof from water damages for many years. Further, the waterproofing must not get affected by changes in temperatures.
- The Waterproofing Material’s Drying Time
A waterproofing solution that dries faster can readily protect your concrete roof from rain or water damages. As well, the waterproofing material won’t trap much dust when it dries quickly. So, when looking for the best waterproofing solution, keep that in mind.
- The Waterproofing Material’s UV Resistance
The best waterproofing membrane is highly resistant to UV and other weather elements. A waterproofing solution with low UV resistance will lose its effectiveness when exposed to elements continually. Notably, there are many UV-resistant waterproofing materials.
- Brand of the Waterproofing Solution
When shopping for the best waterproofing for concrete roofs, you must evaluate various brands to find what suits your needs. Pick a brand with exceptional experience in offering effective waterproofing solutions. If you’re unsure of a brand, consult roofing experts.
How to Waterproof a Concrete Roof Slab
Here are the steps to follow when waterproofing a concrete roof slab.
Step 1: Prepare the Concrete Roof for Waterproofing
Remove all the old waterproofing from the roof. Next, clean the roof surface to remove all the debris or dirt.
Step 2: Repair the Damaged Areas on the Concrete Roof
Inspect the roof to see if there are any cracks on the concrete and repair them to prevent leaks. All the crevices are prime points for water to erode the concrete further.
Step 3: Apply a Coat of Primer on the Roof
Apply a coat of the best concrete primer on the entire concrete roof slab. This primer will facilitate the adhesion between the concrete and the waterproofing material.
Step 4: Apply the Waterproofing Material
Once the primer has dried completely, apply the waterproofing material of your choice. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to maximize the potential of the material.
Final Words
When constructing a building with a concrete roof, you need to waterproof the rooftop to prevent future water damages. That way, you will maintain the roof’s structural integrity and prolong its lifespan. The good news is, you now know how to waterproof a concrete roof. However, if you need professional guidance, consult Roof Master & Construction.
Contact us today to discuss your concrete roofing project with one of our professionals.
