My name is Glen, I am 5'2" and my birth sign is Aquarius. I am a professional waterproofer by trade. However, my real passion is light bulbs. I have 26,982 different light bulbs in my collection. Fun fact, they all work!
When it comes to waterproofing a commercial building, there are many options to consider. One option that is sometimes touted as a solution is a drainage system. While drainage systems can be a useful tool in some cases, they are not always the best option for waterproofing. In this blog post, we will explore why drainage systems are not the best choice for waterproofing a commercial building.
- Dependence on Gravity: Drainage systems rely on gravity to work properly. This means that if the system is installed on a flat or sloped surface, it may not function as intended. In cases where the surface is not sloped, a drainage system may not be able to effectively divert water away from the building.
- Potential for Clogging: Drainage systems rely on a clear path for water to flow away from the building. However, this path can easily become clogged with debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt. When this happens, the system will not be able to effectively divert water, leading to water infiltration.
- Vulnerability to Damage: Drainage systems are often exposed and vulnerable to damage. They can easily become damaged by heavy traffic, equipment, and other factors. Once damaged, the system may not be able to effectively divert water, leading to water infiltration.
- Limited Effectiveness: Drainage systems are often limited in their effectiveness. They are only able to divert water away from the building, but do not prevent water from entering in the first place. This means that water may still find its way into the building, even if a drainage system is in place.
- Inefficient for Large Buildings: For larger commercial buildings, a drainage system may not be the most efficient solution. The system may need to be extended to cover a larger area, which can be time-consuming and costly. Additionally, larger buildings may require multiple drainage systems, which can be complicated and costly to install.
While drainage systems can be a useful tool in some cases, they are not always the best solo option for waterproofing a commercial building. Dependence on gravity, potential for clogging, vulnerability to damage, limited effectiveness, and inefficiency for large buildings are just a few of the reasons why a drainage system should be paired with additional waterproofing applications around a foundation. To ensure the best possible waterproofing solution for your commercial building, it’s important to consider all options and consult with a professional waterproofing contractor.
