The Importance of Waterproofing & Sealants
If there is one thing that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted, it is how important cleanliness is to our health. With how often we are inside our homes, especially during the pandemic, it is vital to keep our homes free and clear of potential threats to our health. One way to be sure your home is clean is to be proactive in making sure that mold and mildew does not grow inside of it. To do this, it is important to know a little bit about mold and mildew, where they are frequently found within the home and how to prevent them to begin with.
What is mold and mildew?
Mold is a natural part of the environment that breaks down organic matter and reproduces by means of tiny spores. Mildew is a term often used generically for mold or fungus that has a flat growth habit. Both are dependent on water and moisture for survival so they will be found in areas of the home exposed to water and moisture the most such as bathrooms, kitchens or basements.
Mold and mildew spores normally do not cause much of an issue. However, if they enter the home and start to grow then they can cause health problems. Mold is known to produce allergens that cause an allergic reaction, or even an asthma attack, in some people. It can also cause irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, throat and lungs. This can happen in those who are allergic and those who are not allergic.
Why waterproof and seal?
Waterproofing before laying tile or sealing grout can prevent costly repairs in the future as well as potential health issues. In locations prone to getting wet, a grout sealant will help keep water and moisture out of the porous non-sanded grout. This is helpful as water or moisture can get behind the tile and start to cause several problems. If water gets behind the tile, and the surface was not waterproofed prior to the tile install, then the surface will start to accumulate a lot of water damage. Even with waterproofing, water or moisture getting underneath tile through unsealed or cracked grout will create an ideal location for the formation and growth of molds. While sealant is not required for non-sanded grout, it will help keep the grout clean and stain free. It is highly recommended, however, that you always seal sanded grout.
We can help.
Elastic Pro is CementPro’s premium waterproofing solution. It is a ready-to-use elastomeric membrane with great adhesion and reduces crack transmission in tile and stone floors. It dries a light blue color which is a bit easier on the eyes than colors like red or purple. For waterproofing, Elastic Pro should be applied at 50 mils wet thickness. When applied at the recommended 50 mils wet thickness, one gallon will cover approximately 30 sq. ft.
CementPro’s water-based grout sealer utilizes high quality acrylic emulsions that will help seal your grout to prevent it against wear, water penetration, grease, oil and even household acid-based contaminants. Our grout sealer will not alter the color of the grout or tile. Our 1L bottle will cover approximately 75 sq. ft.
Always completely remove and clean all mold and mildew before applying tile or grout to any surface. Always ensure personal safety when cleaning up mold or mildew. Wear gloves, goggles and a mask to avoid inhaling any of the spores.
Give us a call today at (951) 300-0300 and we can help you get the right supplies for your project.
