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As the monsoon approaches, ensuring your home is protected from leaks and water damage becomes a top priority. Waterproofing is essential for preserving your building’s structural integrity, especially during heavy rains. However, many homeowners and even contractors unknowingly fall into avoidable traps. These common waterproofing mistakes can result in poor performance, costly repairs, and structural damage. Let’s uncover common waterproofing mistakes and explore how to avoid them using trusted solutions like Ascolite waterproofing products.

Skipping Surface Preparation

Mistake:

• Jumping straight to applying waterproofing without cleaning or repairing the surface.

Why it’s a problem:

• Dirt, algae, cracks, and moisture prevent waterproofing materials from adhering properly, leading to early failure.

Solution:

• Clean the surface thoroughly using a power washer or stiff brush.
• Repair cracks with appropriate fillers.
• Use Ascofill ES to fill cracks, followed by Ascoprime Ultra to seal micro-pores and enhance adhesion before applying the waterproofing membrane.

Choosing the Wrong Waterproofing Product

Mistake:

• Using a one-size-fits-all approach or opting for cheaper alternatives.

Why it’s a problem:

• Different surfaces require different waterproofing treatments. The wrong product may not withstand the elements.

Solution:

• Assess the area and select the right system.
• Use ASCOSHIELD PU+ for terraces and roofs, ASCOGUARD for exterior walls, and ASCOPROOF IW+ , an integral waterproofing compound to be added directly into concrete or mortar.
• Always consult product data sheets or speak with an expert for guidance.

Ignoring Weather Conditions During Application

Mistake:

• Applying waterproofing chemicals during high humidity or just before it rains.

Why it’s a problem:

• Moisture prevents proper curing, reducing effectiveness and causing peeling or blistering.

Solution:

• Apply waterproofing on dry days with no forecast of rain for at least 24–48 hours.
• Allow complete drying between coats, as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Overlooking Primer Application

Mistake:

• Skipping the primer step to save time or cost.

Why it’s a problem:

• Primers are critical for binding the surface and ensuring that the membrane forms a strong bond.

Solution:

• Apply Ascoprime Ultra, a high-quality primer that prepares and seals the substrate.
• It significantly improves adhesion and ensures long-lasting waterproofing performance.

Applying Uneven Coats or Insufficient Thickness

Mistake:

• Using too little product or not maintaining uniformity during application.

Why it’s a problem:

• Thin or uneven layers compromise durability and leave weak spots for water infiltration.

Solution:

• Apply waterproofing in multiple coats at the recommended thickness.
• Use tools like rollers, brushes, or spray machines evenly.
• For example, ASCOGUARD PRIME requires 2 to 3 uniform coats for effective and long-lasting protection.

Neglecting Drainage Systems

Mistake:

• Waterproofing the surface without checking drainage.

Why it’s a problem:

• Blocked or poorly sloped drains lead to water pooling, which stresses waterproofing membranes and leads to leaks.

Solution:

• Inspect and clear all drainage paths.
• Ensure proper slope on terraces and balconies.
• Apply Ascolite’s waterproofing sealants around drain outlets and joints to prevent leakage at critical points.

Not Addressing Structural Movement

Mistake:

• Ignoring expansion joints or dynamic cracks.

Why it’s a problem:

• Structures expand and contract, and static membranes can crack or delaminate over time.

Solution:

• Use elastomeric waterproofing solutions like ASCOSHIELD PU+ that offer excellent crack-bridging ability.
• Reinforce joints with mesh or sealants where required.

Treating Only the Exterior

Mistake:

• Assuming exterior treatment alone is enough.

Why it’s a problem:

• Water can seep through internal cracks, joints, or the foundation if not treated.

Solution:

• Combine internal waterproofing with external treatments.
• Mix ASCOPROOF IW+ into concrete or mortar during construction or repair to create a waterproof barrier from within.

Why Ascolite Waterproofing Products Make a Difference

When it comes to battling monsoon woes, quality matters. Ascolite waterproofing products are engineered to address the unique challenges of heavy rainfall, offering solutions for roofs, walls, basements, and more. Their range includes flexible membranes, sealants, and coatings that ensure durability and ease of use. By choosing Ascolite, you’re investing in peace of mind and protection that lasts.

Conclusion

Avoiding common waterproofing mistakes is essential to ensure long-term protection during the monsoon. With the right approach—surface preparation, proper product selection, and attention to detail—you can prevent water damage before it starts. Ascolite waterproofing products offer a trusted, high-performance solution tailored to various building surfaces and conditions, helping you stay safe and dry, no matter how heavy the rain pours.