Leaks are so much more than a pain to deal with in the moment. If left unchecked, even small water leaks can lead to structural damage that is much more inconvenient than the original leak itself.
Swollen window frames. Ruined furnishings. Compromised roof spaces. The consequences can add up to thousands of dollars in repair costs.
Thankfully, a simple solution can prevent these issues: wet sealing.
This effective measure can prevent leaks from causing major damage and keep your property safe.
The Causes and Consequences of Leaks
Unfortunately, there are several potential culprits for the leak in your building. The most common causes include:
- Broken seals
- Clogged drains
- Plumbing issues, like corrosion
- Bad weather (heavy rain)
If your property isn’t properly sealed, there can be many causes of your water intrusion.
Though initially often small problems, even minor leaks can manifest into much bigger structural issues if neglected.
Untreated leaks can cause all sorts of problems, such as:
- Mold spores, musty odors, and unsightly water stains.
- Excess water exposure can warp material around window frames. This can make it difficult to close them.
- Water coming through the walls can compromise electronic devices and systems. This results in a major fire hazard.
- Any water leaking into the rooms risks damaging everything within them. Carpets, furniture, curtains, and other valuable items are all vulnerable to water spots and other forms of damage.
You need to intervene in any of these scenarios. Inaction escalates the issue, which may cause irreparable damage. It’s better to deal with a mildly inconvenient issue than a behemoth water leak that threatens the very structure of the building.
What Is Wet Sealing?
Wet sealing is a process that involves applying a special sealant to create a watertight barrier that prevents water leakage. This wet sealant is especially useful in areas where moisture is likely to be present. Think of places like your windows, doors, a roof leak, basement walls, and exterior walls.
Wet sealing is a reliable solution in two scenarios:
- Addressing current leaks. Wet sealing effectively stops water from further seeping into vulnerable areas.
- Preventing future issues. By applying a sealant in this way, you create a protective barrier that reduces the risk of future water damage.
Further, you don’t need to worry about harsh chemicals. Wherever these hazardous substances are present, the wet set resists degradation.
How Should You Use a Wet Seal?
Skillful wet sealant application requires attention to detail. Let’s run through a step-by-step guide to help you use wet sealants effectively and prevent leaks from damaging your property’s structural integrity.
1. Get the Right Equipment
When dealing with the effects of water damage, a builder is only as good as his tools. Before you begin, ensure you gather all the tools you need to do the job right. You’ll need:
- A caulking gun
- Wet sealant tubes
- Cleaning Tools
- Personal protective equipment (PPE), like gloves and goggles.
2. Preparing the Affected Area
The initial step is to clean the area where the leak is located. You’re looking to remove any debris, dirt, or old sealing material from the affected space. Clearing this away will ensure the new sealant adheres properly while also preventing any mold growth. After cleaning, let the area dry completely; applying sealant to a damp surface will reduce its effectiveness.
3. Preparing the Wet Sealant
Next, carefully cut the tip of the wet sealant tube and load it into a caulking gun. It’s important during this step to follow the instructions on how to prepare and insert the sealant, as this can vary between manufacturers.
It’s crucial to get this step right to ensure long-term waterproofing and prevent future water damage.
4. Applying the Wet Sealant
When applying wet sealant, hold the caulking gun at a 45-degree angle and apply consistent pressure. You need to move slowly along the seam, ensuring that sealant covers the entire gap or crack. After you apply it, smooth out the sealant with a suitable tool to eliminate any air bubbles. This step also prevents any uneven spots.
Again, be patient with this step; don’t rush it. Proper application leads to an airtight seal that reduces the chance of further water leakage.
5. Cleaning and Curing
Wipe away any excess before the sealant begins to cure. Allow it to dry completely and cure fully (check the manufacturer’s instructions for details on time expectations).
Yet again, this proper curing time is important to monitor to create those airtight windows and seamless gutters.
6. Inspecting and Ongoing Maintenance
After the sealant has fully cured, inspect the area for any cracks or gaps. It’s essential to check in on the area regularly just to ensure the sealant remains intact. You can reapply as necessary if it’s not quite sealed or any cracks appear. Look out for water pooling or musty smells since these are signs that the sealant may still need attention.
Leave Leaks Behind With City Wide Building Services
Leakages can lead to significant structural and aesthetic damage if not treated early.
Identifying and addressing leaks with wet sealing is a proactive way to protect your property from water infiltration and long-term damage.
For the best results, you should hire professionals who can ensure that your property remains safe and leak-free.
City Wide Building Services has been providing top-notch commercial building maintenance for over 45 years. Let us help you take care of your property and avoid costly repairs down the road. Contact us today for a quote.