Winter Waterproofing Techniques You Should Know For Your Home And Garden
When you waterproof your basement, decking, or exterior siding you are likely doing it with rain and heat in mind. You actually need to waterproof these areas for winter-related weather as well. This is due water seeping into concrete or wood, turning to ice under extreme conditions, and cracking or damaging the material. If you need to waterproof areas of your home and garden, consider these winter waterproofing tips.
Consider Rubber Seals for Basements and Decks
Rubber waterproofing seal is easy to apply and it provides a one coat solution to your waterproofing needs. A benefit to using the rubber seal, also known as synthetic rubber coatings, is the durability of the seal. It does provide a hard seal that is UV-resistant. This is ideal especially when you are referring to waterproofing and sealing outdoor decks. If you are looking for a way to take any guesswork out of waterproofing your basement or deck, this is also an ideal method. To waterproof the basement, use a paint roller to apply the rubber seal as you would paint. Start at the furthest wall and paint walls to floor, moving your way out of the room. Allow the seal to dry according to the manufacturer directions.
Exterior Basement Walls
If you are handling the waterproofing on your own, you should remember to waterproof the exterior walls of the basement as well. If you have basement walls that are ground level and extend upwards, this means they are exposed to cold weather conditions. Make sure they are sealed with an exterior waterproofing agent and that some form of exterior weather stripping or seal is used between the ground and the basement exterior walls. If you are using a rubber waterproofing liquid or seal, apply with a roller or paint brush just as you would with traditional paint. Make sure to cover the entire area that will be exposed to cold weather elements. Allow the seal to dry according to the manufacturer directions.
Corners and Window Casings
One area that you may overlook when you are waterproofing your home is the corners and window casings. Remember that cold air can come in through these areas, combine with the warm air in the home, and turn into condensation. This condensation can cause wood rot and other related issues. Make sure to waterproof these areas with either a rubber seal or with weather stripping.
To apply fresh weather stripping, remove old stripping from window casings and framed areas. Clean the area with fine grain sandpaper to remove any rough spots. Apply the weather stripping to these areas according to manufacturer directions or simply peel off the adhesive protection strip and apply the stripping with the adhesive side down. If you choose to use a rubber caulking seal, sand the area to remove rough spots and apply the seal directly to the corner or area according to the manufacturer directions.
Roof Waterproofing
You may have already thought of the window casings, basement, exterior wood finishes, and decking but you could still overlook the roof in your waterproofing endeavours. If you are unsure if the roof is sealed for the winter, consider calling a contractor. They can perform an inspection and let you know what waterproofing, if any, should be done for winter weather. Remember, rubber waterproofing methods can also be used on the roof, just as you have already used them in waterproofing your basement and deck. Move from the farthest point of the roof first and back towards the ladder. This will prevent you from stepping on the roofing seal before it has dried completely. Since each manufacturer is different, make sure to follow their suggested drying time.
These are just a few of the winter waterproofing areas and tips you should consider for your home and garden. If you are unsure of which areas really need waterproofing, or if you don't remember when your home and garden were waterproofed and sealed, contact a waterproofing specialist, such as Australian Waterproofing Company, for an inspection and estimate.
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