Breaking Down Waterproofing: Vertical vs. Horizontal and Which Is Best For You
Douglass Colony Group brings professional all-weather roof and garden waterproofing services to Denver and the entire Rocky Mountain region, helping safeguard buildings against leaks and water damage. A lack of proper waterproofing measures can lead to several problems including leaks, foundation issues, health issues related to mold, and spoiled furniture, carpets, and belongings.
There are two different types of waterproofing, both with different strategies when it comes to the best choice for your building. Read on to learn the key differences between vertical and horizontal waterproofing and explore the unique advantages each technique offers for protecting your structure.
Vertical Waterproofing
Vertical, or below-grade, waterproofing can be just as important as horizontal but may not be needed for all types of construction. Using either a hot-applied reinforced membrane or a sheet membrane, vertical waterproofing protects the life and success of your building. It is applied to vertical services, such as walls, basements, and foundation sides. This method protects these surfaces from water infiltration due to groundwater or surface water runoff.
Key Features
- Application Areas: Foundation walls, retaining walls, and below-grade basement walls.
- Purpose: Prevents water from seeping through vertical structural elements.
- Materials Used: Bituminous coatings, liquid-applied membranes, or sheet membranes.
- Installation: Often done during construction, but retrofitting is possible for existing structures.
Advantages
- Effective at shielding walls from prolonged exposure to moisture.
- Protects against hydrostatic pressure.
Horizontal Waterproofing
Horizontal waterproofing is a crucial component of maintaining a watertight seal. In most situations, a commercial contractor like Douglass Colony will apply the membrane over a finished space such as a patio, terrace planter, or roof garden using hot-applied reinforced membrane from top manufacturers. Horizontal waterproofing focuses on flat or horizontal surfaces, such as rooftops, terraces, podiums, and basement floors. It prevents water from pooling and penetrating these surfaces, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall or standing water.
Key Features
- Application Areas: Roofs, terraces, basement floors, and wet areas like bathrooms.
- Purpose: Keeps water from entering the structure through flat surfaces.
- Materials Used: Liquid membranes, polyurethane coating, EPDM (rubber), or cementitious waterproofing systems.
- Installation: Requires proper slope design to direct water away from the surface.
Advantages
- Protects against water pooling and leaks.
- Improves the durability of exposed surfaces like roofs and podiums.
Choosing the Right Solution
The choice between vertical and horizontal waterproofing depends on the structure’s design and environmental factors. In many cases, a combination of both is necessary to ensure comprehensive protection against water damage. For example, a basement might require vertical waterproofing for its walls and horizontal waterproofing for its floor.
Proper waterproofing safeguards structures from potential water-related issues like mold, structural deterioration, and increased maintenance costs. To find out more about our expert care and tailored solutions, visit our website. Our experienced team is here to help you keep your roof in top condition, ensuring its performance and longevity for years to come!