Waterproofing Woes, A Wake-Up Call for Safer Structures in India.
Home / Waterproofing Woes, A Wake-Up Call for Safer Structures in India.
Securing a structure from potential troubles and ensuring its longevity is akin to heeding the wisdom of “A stitch in time saves nine.” In the context of construction, waterproofing stands out as a crucial measure during the building phase.
According to a private research conducted by a reputable chemical company, the adoption of waterproofing in India is still in its early stages, primarily confined to Tier 1 Metros. Shockingly, Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities seem oblivious to the imperative need for waterproofing during construction, with less than 5% embracing this protective measure. Considering India’s tropical climate, characterized by abundant rainfall across a significant portion of its geography, this low adoption rate raises concerns.
Statistical insights into the longevity of structures in Tier 1 Metros reveal a range of 15 to 20 years. Metros such as Chennai, Mumbai, and Kolkata face challenges like high humidity compromising structural integrity, while Delhi and Bengaluru contend with pollution levels causing smog, a potential hazard for standing structures. If these leading Metros are struggling, one can only imagine the fate of structures in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
Several factors contribute to this negligence:
- Apathetic contractors lacking foundational knowledge in waterproofing.
- Limited technical and experiential knowledge among Civil Engineers.
- Shoddy construction practices.
- Misinformation regarding the cost of waterproofing.
- List ItemCost-cutting measures adopted by owners.
It is disheartening that what should be a fundamental requirement for the longevity of structures is often deemed a luxury. Many mishaps stemming from structural damages could be averted by integrating waterproofing into the construction process.
