Water damage is a common issue for properties in Bali, and it’s crucial to address it effectively to maintain the structural integrity and longevity of your buildings. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to understanding and resolving wet wall problems.
Understanding the Problem
- Waterproofing is a specialized skill and requires a logical and proactive approach.
- It’s essential to stop water from getting in rather than trying to stop it from getting out. This may seem obvious, but it’s a common mistake that even experienced builders make.
- Finding the source of water entry can be difficult as water can travel far within a structure.
- Reinforced concrete structures, while strong, often have cracks and cavities due to poor construction. The infill materials, like concrete blocks or local red bricks, can act like sponges, absorbing moisture.
- Regular ground movements and earthquakes in Bali can cause cracks in structures, particularly through the walls.
Identifying the Source of Leaks
- Start by checking the highest points of your structure, as water flows downhill.
- Look for cracks on the top of walls and check for a waterproof coating.
- Pay attention to the area where a concrete roof slab meets the wall or to parapet walls, as these can be common points of water entry.
- Leaking concrete gutters are a prevalent issue in Bali.
- Ground movement can cause cracks in gutters.
- Gutters that overflow into buildings due to poor design are another common problem.
- Carefully check the entire surface of the wall for cracks and other openings.
- In windy areas, rain can be driven at steep angles against the wall.
- Buildings with proper roof overhangs can reduce rain exposure on walls.
Addressing the Issue
- Wall Breathing: Remember that walls need to “breathe” so any water that does get in can evaporate. Do not waterproof both the inside and outside of a wall, as this can trap moisture and lead to ongoing dampness.
- Rising Damp: Rising damp is common in Bali, where damp-proof courses are not often installed.
- The solution involves creating a horizontal slit at the bottom of the wall and filling it with high-density cement to stop water rising from the ground.
- Sealing the Leaks:
- Avoid using a skim of high-density waterproofing cement, as it can crack, especially when exposed to sunshine.
- Use a thick polymer paint applied with a brush, which is a more effective solution.
- For cracks, apply a polymer paint along both sides, stick a membrane material (like a thick bandage), and saturate the bandage with the polymer for better flexibility and waterproofing.
- Ensure the surface is very clean and dry before applying any waterproofing polymer. Remove any loose paint, moss, or dirt, and allow the surface to dry thoroughly.
- For general wall waterproofing, consider using Dulux Weathershield, a respected waterproof paint for exterior walls.
Practical Steps
- Identify the source of the leak by carefully inspecting the wall, roof, and gutter systems.
- Address any cracks using polymer paint and membrane materials.
- Apply a high-quality waterproof paint to exterior walls.
- For rising damp, consider creating a sloof with high-density cement.
- Ensure that the outer side of the gutter has overflow points lower than the inner side.
By taking a proactive and logical approach to waterproofing, you can protect your property from water damage.
