Membrane Waterproofing Stair Cores & Basement Steps

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The Serious Consequences of Unprotected Stair Cores

Waterproofing stair cores is essential as without proper waterproofing protection, environmental factors can quickly shorten the lifespan of your stair cores. Water seepage and ingress cause significant damage, compromising the integrity of the structure and leading to issues like concrete deterioration, reinforcement corrosion, and structural weakness.

Australian coastal conditions create unique challenges for building waterproofing. The Gold Coast, for example Main Beach where our recent project was completed, faces these challenges regularly. Buildings in these areas require specialised waterproofing solutions to withstand the constant moisture exposure and prevent serious structural damage.

Why Your Stair Cores Might Be Compromised

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Inadequate Drainage Systems

If there’s not enough drainage to channel water away from the steps, it can quickly lead to leaks in the surrounding walls.

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Environmental Factors

Frequent heavy rainfall creates significant water pressure around building foundations. Water can quickly find its way into basements and surrounding walls, especially in coastal areas like Main Beach on the Gold Coast. Exterior stair cores are particularly vulnerable points where water pressure builds up and penetrates. Properties throughout Queensland face similar challenges during their wet seasons.

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Aging Materials

Over the years, wear and tear combined with seasonal weather changes can break down waterproofing layers and materials, creating entry points for water.

Why Waterproofing Matters

    Durability

    It extends the life of your stair cores, preventing costly repairs and deterioration over time.

    Protection

    Waterproofing keeps water out of your walls and foundation, protecting your entire structure from water damage.

    Prevention

    Waterproofing helps minimise potential issues during storm seasons, particularly when there’s significant rainfall in coastal areas, such as the Gold Coast.

    Our Professional Waterproofing Methods

    At Stop & Seal, we offer two primary methods for waterproofing stair cores, both proven effective in Australian conditions:

     

    First Approach: Membrane Application

    External Steps, angle from bottom of steps upwards. Stair Core with Water Ingress Issues - leaking into adjacent walls. Can see watermark stains on steps

    1. Identify Water Ingress on Stair Cores

    Our experts thoroughly assess all areas where water is entering the structure.

    2. Preparation for Primer & Membrane Application

    We carefully clean and prepare surfaces to ensure maximum adhesion.

    3. Application of Primer on Stair Cores

    Our specialised primers create the foundation for effective waterproofing.

    External Steps, angle from bottom of steps upwards. Stair Core with Water Ingress Issues Addressed no longer leaking into adjacent walls. Can see light membrane running along on edge of steps

    4. Stair Cores Membraned

    We apply high-quality waterproofing membranes for complete protection.

    Second Approach: SNSeal Injectable Sealant & Membrane Application

    Water Ingress evident on steps - water mark stain and moulding

    1. Pinpoint Gaps:

    Meticulously identifying potential problem areas is crucial for effective sealing.

    Image of a drill and water ingress pipe on steps. Ready for precise drilling

    2. Precise Drilling:

    For targeted application of SNSeal, precision is key to ensures we apply the sealant exactly where it’s needed most.

    Showing the SNSeal injectable sealant hose being injected into step where there is water ingress

    3. Injection of SNSeal Injectable Sealant:

    Under high pressure, our patented SNSeal application guarantees a tight seal to keep water out, as recently demonstrated at our Main Beach project.

    Can see that membrane has been applied to edges of the step, to prevent water ingress.

    4. Protective Membrane Applied:

    Our final step provides a strong defense against the elements for long-lasting protection.

    Main Beach, Gold Coast Success Story

    The photos used in this blog were taken from a completed waterproofing work on stair cores at a Main Beach property that was experiencing significant water ingress issues. Using our proven SNSeal injectable sealant technology followed by membrane application, we successfully eliminated all water penetration points.

    Waterproofing Service Areas:

    Australia-Wide, Key Areas include Queensland, Victoria & New South Wales

    We provide waterproofing services Australia-wide, with our head office based on the Gold Coast. Our expert waterproofing solutions cover:

    Queensland, including key service areas in Brisbane such as but not limited to Brisbane CBD, Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill, and West End, as well as Gold Coast areas like Southport, Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, Coomera, Robina, and Tweed Heads. From injection waterproofing to membrane waterproofing, we offer a range of reliable solutions for both residential and commercial properties.

    Victoria, we provide professional waterproofing services in Melbourne and surrounding areas, including but not limited to Melbourne CBD, Southbank, St Kilda, and Docklands. We also service other parts of Victoria, offering membrane waterproofing and other high-quality waterproofing solutions across regions such as Geelong, Werribee, Ballarat, and beyond. Our injection waterproofing methods ensure long-lasting protection for your property.

    New South Wales, Our NSW Metro franchise is available to assist with all your waterproofing needs. From injection waterproofing to membrane waterproofing, we have the expertise to solve a wide range of waterproofing problems. You can reach our NSW Metro franchise directly at [email protected] or 0418 830 860.

    Need Help With Stair Core Leaks and Waterproofing

    If you are experiencing water ingress or signs of cracking, spalling, or water-damaged around stair core areas in Queensland or elsewhere in Australia, reach out to Stop & Seal today for a free quote and expert consultation.