Is Waterproof Concrete Worth It? What London Property Owners Need to Know

Can you guess how much UK businesses spend annually to repair building damage caused by water? That would be approximately more than £700 million each year. Data suggest that approximately 40% of commercial property insurance claims in the country are due to water damage to the building.

Given the weather conditions in the UK, waterproof concrete is very relevant to property owners in the country. A waterproof concrete structure will help reduce the cost of building maintenance and last longer as well.

Read on to know why waterproof concrete is the right choice for you

Why Waterproof Concrete Matters in London

For various reasons, waterproof concrete is the best option for UK property owners. Let’s see what they are.

• Unfavourable Climate : The UK experiences heavy rainfall and damp weather. Such weather conditions are not ideal for concrete buildings. Additionally, the high level of water is also detrimental to the structural integrity of buildings.

• Older Building Maintenance : With a high level of water and rain in the country, the maintenance of old buildings becomes difficult. Most of the leased property in London was built before the 1940s. Without the help of waterproof concrete, protecting these buildings from water is a challenge.

• Legal and Insurance Considerations : If your London property has damp issues, the insurance premium may also increase. Because there is a high chance that you will make an insurance claim for building damage due to water ingress in the building.

What Makes Concrete Waterproof?

Waterproof concrete means that water cannot penetrate the concrete structure, making it durable and long-lasting. Several factors contribute to the strength and durability of concrete.

• Admixtures and Additives : The admixtures and additives are mixed with the concrete to create a waterproof layer. It helps to increase the permeability of the concrete structure. With protection against water and water vapour, this type of concrete lasts long.

• Structural Design Factors : Moreover, the building structure should contain proper joint sealing and proper curing to make it safe from water ingress. Besides, you can use an appropriate drainage system outside the building, so rainwater gets cleared quickly.

Applications Where Waterproof Concrete is Most Useful

To protect your building from water damage, you can use waterproof concrete. In specific areas of the building, like basements and underground rooms, you should use waterproof concrete mix. Specifically, the surrounding area has a high water level.

Moreover, the building foundation remains at great risk of water damage. So, use additives and admixtures to make it resistant to water ingress. Besides, the building wall that remains exposed to the outer weather should also have waterproof concrete used in its construction. It will protect the entire building from rain or water.

If you want to really understand whether waterproof concrete is worth it, you should consider three factors: high initial investment, long-term cost savings, and increased property value.

If you want to go with waterproof concrete mixes, you might have to spend significantly in the beginning. But don’t worry, this is for the best of your building health. With waterproof concrete mixes in your building, you are sure not to spend any more on repairing water damage. Additionally, you may be eligible for lower insurance premiums for your building.

When you want to sell your property to a prospective buyer, you can get additional value for your property by using waterproof concrete in the building. So even if you have to invest a significant amount in the building construction, you will get additional value for your property from the buyer.

Alternatives and When You Might Not Need It

Although we don’t recommend using any alternative waterproofing solution other than waterproof concrete mixes, alternatives are suitable for exceptional cases. You may opt for surface waterproofing if the area where you are building your concrete structure does not experience heavy rain or high water levels.

An alternative waterproofing solution is viable only if the external weather conditions are favourable. Truly speaking, that might not be the case for building in London. So, if you’re not in an extreme situation, where you may not be able to afford waterproof concrete mixes, don’t go with alternative solutions.

Final Verdict: Is Waterproof Concrete Worth It in London?

Yes, it is worth investing in it if your buildings have underground compartments, basements, or your building is in a high-moisture area. You may need to invest a bit more in the construction of the new building, but in the long run, it will help you achieve the property value you deserve.

Moreover, you would have a lower risk of water damage to the building compared to other buildings in London without it.