Damp Proofing Vs. Waterproofing

Though the two concepts and processes are quite different from one another, there is a subtle difference in the two. Damp proofing is tar based, whereas, waterproofing is polymer and rubber based. Damp proofing and rubber proofing have their own pros and cons and the situations in which they are used are also quite different. Let's take a look at 'damp proofing vs. waterproofing'.

It must be noted that the customs and techniques vary from region to region and thus, if you look at the broad picture, there are countless techniques of waterproofing and damp proofing.

Damp Proofing

Damp Proofing is a technique where tar and mastic asphalt based substances are used to treat wall, especially those of the basement from inside or outside. In a nutshell, damp proofing performs a capitally action that is it keeps the wall or structure from becoming excessively moist. The porosity of the wall or structure is filled up by the damp proofing solutions. Most damp proofing solutions are just like paint. These asphalt or tar based emulsions or solutions are applied on the outer surface of the wall, both inside and outside the building. The emulations fill up the porosity of the wall by covering up and partially entering the minute holes. There are some solutions that are also sprayed on the wall, or are added to the mortar while the building is still under construction. Damp proofing however, is highly susceptible to weather and it also grows weak after the building 'settles down', that is the construction starts wearing down. The problem is, with age, the porous parts of the wall and the small cracks expand and change shape, the damp proofing emulsion is however not able to take up this new space and moisture gets a free pass into the structure. In basements, or in places where the risk of damp rising is high, a damp proofing spray is applied on both sides of the wall, in cases where it is multi layered. The damp coating has to be updated once in a while, as is not that fool-proof and it tends to break down slowly, but naturally, in the first few years. It is used in regions where it rains moderately and the winter or summer is also not that harsh, as damp proofing does not stop high water flow but merely prevents damp from accumulating on the wall. From a monetary point of view, the damp proofing process is cheaper than water proofing. Some common damp proofing products include, Thoro T5200, Karnak #920AF fibered emulsion mastic damp proofing and 5 gl Wtr/damper Proofing.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing, just as the name suggests, prevents a flow of water hampering the health of your wall or house. Waterproofing is a bit different from damp proofing and from the point of view of construction, it is the best way to protect walls and foundations of the house. Waterproofing emulsions are basically, rubber and polymer based which have two important characteristics, namely, elasticity and flexibility. Hence the porous holes remained covered for a long, long time and with time the membrane that has been formed tends to shift a bit as per the expansion of small holes and cracks. Emulsion, in most cases, is mixed with mortar as a concrete waterproofing solution and, in cases where the weathers are extreme, it is additionally sprayed on the external portions of the wall. At the same time a damp proofing basement solution is also sprayed from the inside of the wall to curtail moisture growth. Some similar basement waterproofing paint can also be used. Some basement waterproofing products that can be put to use in such a case include, Damtite Waterproofing Solutions and SealGuard Waterproofing Membranes. The total basement waterproofing cost, or cost of waterproofing a building, is quite high but the durability of your home is assured and you will never have the problem of any leakage. There are some additional costly emulsions that can be used for waterproofing wood structures in the basement.

Waterproofing basement and the external walls of a building is thus the best choice, in case you live in a very cold or rainy region. In conditions where the climate is relatively warm, damp proofing the building becomes a good option.