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Pool Construction Tips

Hi, I'm Mandy. If you're looking for tips on pool construction, you've come to the right place. We've just had a new pool installed and I'm full of advice! When I started on our pool I thought it would be an easy build. Boy, was I wrong. I didn't know anything about building a pool apart from the fact I wanted one. Luckily, our construction company set me straight. They helped me work out how big the pool could be and they showed me which shape would suit our yard space. They sorted out permits and even gave me advice on fencing. To find out what I learned, read through my blog. Hope it helps!

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Waterproofing Membranes Explained

by Bessie Beck

The addition of waterproofing membranes is done so as to make it difficult or nearly impossible for water to penetrate through a waterproofed surface. Ensuring that your house is waterproofed is the best way to prevent the likelihood of water damage to structural components of your house (such as walls and floors) as well as preventing damage to your household appliances.

Here are a few things you need to know about these specialised membranes as you go about making your house a waterproof facility.

Types of Waterproofing Membrane Systems

Waterproofing membranes can be classified into two categories. The first of these is referred to as hydrophilic systems, while the second is referred to as hydrophobic waterproofing membranes. The difference between the two is seen in their mode of operation. Hydrophilic membranes are designed to crystallise upon exposure to water. The crystallisation effect makes it difficult for water molecules to gain entry through the membrane.

On the other hand, hydrophobic waterproofing membranes are effective at their job because they block air spaces and pores present on the waterproofed surface. Once blocked, such pores and air spaces cannot act as an entry point through which water could penetrate into your home.

Both hydrophilic and hydrophobic waterproofing membranes are effective at their job. Ultimately, the choice on which membrane to settle for should be a point of discussion for you and your chosen waterproofing specialist.

Liquid Membranes and Sheet Membranes

Residential waterproofing membranes are most commonly available in liquid form or in the form of thick waterproofing sheets. If you plan on doing your own waterproofing, you're better off settling for liquid waterproofing membranes because their installation is easier and not as labour-intensive. You will only need a roller brush and some protective clothing in order to apply a liquid waterproofing membrane over a residential surface. It is almost like adding an extra coat of paint onto the said surface.

Sheet-style membranes have to be cut to the appropriate size and shape before their subsequent installation on a residential surface.

To Expose or Not

Depending on their location of installation, waterproofing membranes can be exposed or non-exposed. Exposed membranes are installed above the ground, while their non-exposed counterparts are installed below ground. Direct exposure of membranes to the elements makes them more prone to accelerated wear and tear.  For this reason, non-exposed waterproofing membranes require less frequent maintenance, and they're known to have a longer lifespan.

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