Health and Safety at Indawo
PASOP, HIER KOM DIE REËN!
PERSISTENT RAIN THREATENS WESTERN CAPE STRUCTURES
The annual winter spell has hit the Cape’s southwestern and southern shorelines and with it comes the threat of water ingress into buildings from persistent and prolonged rainfall, high winds and excessive sea spray. While the wet weather can wreak havoc on waterproofing repairs, Indawo Painting and Waterproofing says that it is critical to eliminate the causes of damage before the wet season, but also to manage threats of leaking during rainy weather. With the onset of a predicted cold and wet period, leaks may be on the worry list of many building owners.
Indawo managing director, Geoffrey Jäck, says, “Generally it is always safer to ensure that a building’s outer structures are waterproofed before rain threatens their integrity. With the arrival of the wet weather, some water leaks can become apparent and threaten the outer structures of buildings and homes. This needs to be attended to, even during the rainy season to avoid significant repair costs after damage has set in.”
Leaks in the rainy season can be one of the most frustrating things you have to deal with. It is also a major cause for concern as excessive leaking can potentially affect asset value. Small leaks often result in big damage making waterproofing a critical maintenance discipline.
While the rainy season can put a dampener on your plans to do major waterproofing jobs, leaks should be repaired immediately to avoid extensive damage. A waterproofing company can assist in waterproofing the following:
- A leaking downpipe. Downpipes and gutters are installed to channel rainwater from a roof to the ground, bypassing vulnerable walls and parapets. Damaged or leaking gutters can result in excess water penetrating outer building structures.
- Leaking windowpanes. Water ingress from cracks around windowpanes can lead to significant damage to the interior of a building, flooring and furnishings.
- Leaking roofs. Leaking roofs during a lengthy rainy period is dangerous. Only professional, legally compliant waterproofers should do repairs and waterproofing. The damage a leaking roof can cause can have far reaching financial implications and even total loss or damage to interior and exterior furnishings and fittings.
- Flat roofs. High-rise complexes have an additional risk with their flat roofs. Risks are compounded with the addition of various substructures on the roof. Without adequate waterproofing, an entire building is at risk from water damage.
- Inadequate protection of outer walls. Parts of buildings that bear the brunt of relentless rainfall are unprotected outer walls, expansion joints and where structures are attached to buildings, like satellite dishes, water tanks and air-conditioning units. It is vital to ensure that where these are attached, adequate waterproofing protects against water ingress.
- Full bore waterproofing. Full bores or drainage systems running through concrete slabs require extra attention when it comes to waterproofing. Inadequate waterproofing can result in severe damage being caused that can reach from the top of the building down to ground level.
- Wooden structures. Wooden fencing, doors and windowpanes are vulnerable in all weather conditions. Protecting them against severe heat and rain is critical. In the rainy season, wood can deteriorate rapidly and not only become damaged but the integrity of the bricks and mortar surrounding these items are also affected.
- Plant boxes. Plant boxes are especially at risk during rainy seasons. They can become waterlogged and the resultant damage to the walls of a building can be severe. Check planter boxes for signs of potential water damage.
Jäck says, “It is advisable to protect your building from the threat of water damage. Do not wait until the dry summer months hoping that the rain did not cause too much damage. Left on its own, water can cause significant deterioration of structures that can place severe financial strain on building owners.”
During winter keep an eye on what is happening outside. It is best to check the outer structures of your building regularly to identify areas that could be susceptible to water damage. If necessary, call in the professionals to do an assessment before it is too late.
Indawo Painting and Waterproofing can be contacted on 021 941 5000 or email info@indawo.biz.