Concrete is one of the most durable building materials out there, but that doesn’t mean a concrete structure is without vulnerabilities. Over time, water and damaging chemicals can seep into concrete walls or fencing and cause structural damage. This is especially true in low-lying areas with a high water table.
To combat these issues, waterproofing can be applied to precast concrete. This can prevent the degradation of the structure and water infiltration and lengthen the overall lifespan of the concrete walls or fencing. Here are the top reasons why precast waterproofing concrete is the key to longevity.
Water Erodes
Because of how it’s mixed and poured, concrete is naturally porous, meaning it’s susceptible to moisture infiltration. Water will slowly deteriorate a concrete structure and cause corrosion to the steel reinforcement. This can wind up doing extensive damage, leading to costly repairs.
Not only can water compromise the integrity of a concrete wall or fence, but it can also cause cracks and other damage to the structure’s surface. This sort of cosmetic damage is not only unpleasant to look at; it can lower property value.
Waterproofing precast concrete can virtually eliminate the possibility of water seeping into concrete walls or fences and causing expensive structural damage.
In areas like California, where you have destructive fires, followed by rainstorms that lead to landslides, you will want something that you won’t have to rebuild. Precast concrete is also durable and won’t be burned or washed away.
Concrete is Susceptible to Harmful Chemicals
Water isn’t the only thing that can do structural damage to concrete walls and fences. There are several chemicals found in soil that can be equally as destructive. Ammonium chloride, ammonium sulfate, ferrous sulfate, aluminum chloride, and other acidic compounds can compromise the structural integrity of the concrete. Even things like animal wastes, sour milk, and fruit juices can do considerable damage.
While it’s always essential to do a soil analysis when installing concrete, waterproofing can go a long way in keeping harmful chemicals out and prolonging the lifespan of precast walls and fences.
It Prevents Mold and Mildew
Because concrete can retain water, it can also develop mold and mildew. Once the mold or mildew has set in, it can be difficult to remove. Not only is this an eyesore, but it can also be a health hazard that’s costly to remove. What’s more, if left untreated for long enough, mold can do structural damage to concrete.
Waterproofing precast concrete prevents mold and mildew from ever developing.
It Can Protect Structures in Low-Lying Areas
For construction in areas near rivers, lakes, swamps, or marshes, waterproofing concrete is essential. Concrete is significantly more susceptible to all of the dangers water can pose when working in areas with a high water table.
Building sites with good drainage patterns is becoming harder and harder to come by, so there’s a strong chance new construction will have to take into account a high water table and all the damage it can cause to concrete structures. The answer to that is waterproofing.
American Precast Concrete Inc.
Contact American Precast Concrete Inc. today for more information on precast concrete for walls and fencing.