In order to secure your most valuable asset – your home or commercial business – it’s vital that the property itself is protected from the elements. Hiring an experienced waterproofer can guarantee the integrity of your building and help minimise the chances of water damage. Here’s what you need to know about the services provided by local waterproofers.

What does a waterproofer do?

Waterproofing is vital in the home to stop water and moisture from entering the structural areas and causing damage. Common wet areas include the bathroom, laundry and kitchen. However, balconies, roofs, walls, basements and garages are all susceptible to water and must be waterproofed as well. Water can cause damage in areas that are poorly ventilated too, which means ventilation must be improved. If not possible, a waterproofing system should be applied.

Professionals will generally apply a membrane to the area that needs waterproofing. There are many different membranes available and your preferred professional will use the one that is deemed most suitable for that particular area. Roofing membranes will generally be different to bathroom membranes, for example. There are also systems available to waterproof above tiles, eliminating the need to remove tiles – which can be a time-consuming and expensive process.

What type of projects can you hire a waterproofer for?

Waterproofing is essential during the construction of new buildings or renovations, and it involves creating a barrier to prevent water from seeping into properties. It’s vital that you protect your buildings from water damage, as it can cause a range of issues such as damp, rot and mould growth. Here are some of the top reasons why you might want to hire a waterproofer on hipages.

New construction projects

It’s essential to hire a waterproofing contractor from the early stages of your project. Waterproofing is typically done during the construction of the foundation and the installation of the building ‘envelope’, which is the outer layer that separates the interior from the exterior. A waterproofing specialist can ensure all areas of the building – including roofs, walls and foundations – are adequately sealed to prevent water penetration.

Remodelling and renovation projects

If you are adding a new room to your home or converting an empty space into a bathroom, it’s essential that the new areas are adequately waterproofed. A waterproofer can identify areas that are at risk of water damage and recommend the best way to prevent water from entering your property.

Roofing projects

A roof that is poorly sealed – or not at all – will inevitably lead to leaks and water damage, which can turn into structural damage and serious mould and mildew growth. Your waterproofer will identify specific areas of concern on the roof and make the necessary fixes to seal the property.

Concrete projects

Concrete projects – whether it’s a patio, walkway or driveway – also require waterproofing. Concrete is porous and can absorb water, which may lead to damage over time.

Commercial projects

From shopping malls to office buildings and warehouses, a waterproofing tradie can design and implement a waterproofing system that meets the unique requirements of your commercial building to ensure it remains dry and structurally sound.

What can be damaged if an area is incorrectly waterproofed?

Areas that are incorrectly waterproofed can cause issues that significantly impact the structural integrity of your property. One of the most severe types of damage is rotting timber, which is caused by water seeping into the structural framework of the building. This can lead to weak foundations, ceiling sag and even collapse in extreme circumstances.

Rising damp can also occur when water seeps into the walls and floors of a building and travels upwards through capillary action, leading to damp and unsanitary conditions that can be detrimental to your health. Mildew, mould and fungi are other common effects of poorly waterproofed areas. These microorganisms thrive in damp and humid environments and, if left untreated, can lead to respiratory problems.

Peeling paint is another telltale sign of water damage. This happens when water seeps through walls and causes the paint to lose its adhesive properties. Corrosion of metal structures such as pipes can also occur, leading to leaks and possibly even flooding.

How much does a waterproofer cost?

The actual price of hiring a waterproofer in Australia will vary depending on the size and complexity of your project. For something relatively small like a bathroom, according to Yes I Can Project Group the bare minimum you will pay for the industry standard of three layers of waterproofing is $750–$900. For larger projects such as the roof, the cost will be significantly higher.

Make sure you get a quote from a reputable waterproofing contractor to understand the costs involved are clear and there are no hidden fees. It’s also important to consider the long-term benefits of waterproofing, as it can prevent costly water damage and keep your property in good working order.

What to ask when hiring a local waterproofer

When hiring a waterproofer, asking the right questions will ensure you are working with a qualified and experienced professional who can deliver the desired results. Here are some questions to ask a few different tradies:

• Are you fully licensed and insured?
• What experience do you have in waterproofing?
• Can you share examples of your previous work?
• What type of materials do you use for waterproofing?
• What’s the timeline for the project, and how will you ensure it’s completed on time?
• Do you offer a warranty for your work?
• What’s the total cost of the project, and will there be any hidden fees or charges?
• Do you have any specific concerns about the project?

Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.