When the rainy season approaches, even a strong waterproofing job can be overwhelmed if regular maintenance is ignored. At VURA, we believe proactive care is just as important as the initial waterproofing work. Below are steps you can take before the rains to prepare, and after the rains to evaluate and repair - ensuring your space stays dry, safe, and in good condition.

1. Why Maintenance Matters

• Waterproofing is not a one‑time fix. Weather, settling of the building, UV exposure, and rainfall wear down coatings, membranes, and seals over time.
• Even small issues like hairline cracks, blocked drains, or a worn-down seal can allow water ingress, which leads to bigger structural damage, mold, peeling paint, and health hazards.

• Timely interventions save money in the long run - stopping minor damage before it becomes major.

   

2. What to Do Before the Rains

A.  Inspection & Sealing

• Roof & Terrace: Look for cracks, loose tiles, worn joints. Fill gaps, seal cracks. Use flexible sealants that allow thermal expansion.
• Exterior Walls: Examine for cracks, peeling paint, or deteriorated plaster. Seal and patch these. Repaint with waterproof or water‑repellent coatings.

• Windows & Doors: Check frames and sills. Apply weather stripping, caulking around edges. Make sure there are no gaps where water can seep in.

   

B.  Drainage & Water Flow

• Gutters and Downspouts: Clean them thoroughly. Remove leaves, twigs, dirt. Make sure downspouts are firmly fixed and direct water well away from the foundation.
• Slope / Grading: Ensure the ground around the building slopes away, so water doesn’t accumulate near walls or foundation.

• Drainage Outlets: On terraces, balconies, flat roofs - check outlets are clear and functioning correctly so water does not stagnate.

   

C.  Protective Coatings & Materials

• Apply or reapply waterproof coatings (elastomeric, bituminous, polymer‑based) where needed - especially on exposed surfaces like terraces, parapets.
• Choose materials suited for your climate: materials that handle heavy rain, humidity, and possibly strong sun.

• Inspect seals, flashing, joints (between wall & roof, roof penetrations) for rust, wear or lifting.

   

D. Small Preventive Steps

• Trim overhanging branches to reduce debris buildup.
• Remove moss, algae, or plant growth on surfaces - these retain water and degrade surfaces.

• Check inside ceilings and walls for early signs of dampness - discolouration, peeling paint - so you can act before rains.  

   

3. What to Do After the Rains

A. Check for Damage

• Inspect ceilings, internal walls, corners - any water stains, peeling paint, mold or mildew.
• On roofs, terraces, walls: look for new cracks, leaks, blistering of coatings.

• Check window sills, door thresholds for seepage or wet patches.

   

B. Clean & Dry

• Once rains stop, clean out gutters, drains, and downspouts again. Remove silt and debris that may have washed in during rain.

• Dry any wet areas (walls, floors) thoroughly. Ventilate interiors to discourage mold growth. Use dehumidifiers if necessary.

   

C. Repair & Reapply

• Address cracks, loose sealants immediately. Refill or reseal as needed.
• If waterproof coatings have peeled or worn off, once surfaces are completely dry, reapply them. Ensure proper curing time before next rains.

• Replace damaged flashing, seals, or weather‐stripping that are compromised.

   

D. Monitor & Maintain

• After first heavy rains, monitor how well drainage is working. Are there spots where water pools? Is water being diverted correctly?

• For roof terraces and flat roof areas, check for ponding (water that remains standing) - these are stress points for waterproofing. 

   

4. Recommended Schedule & Best Practices

 5. Choosing the Right Products & Professionals

• Use high quality waterproofing membranes, sealants, paints that are suitable for heavy rainfall and local climatic conditions. Flexibility and UV resistance matter.
• For complex jobs (foundation waterproofing, large terraces, basements), engage experienced professionals. Proper application, joints, flashing make a big difference.
• Ensure the products used have good warranties and are from credible brands. Ask about expected lifespan and maintenance needs.

• Consider VURA’s advanced waterproofing solutions, trusted for their durability and climate-specific performance. Backed by strong warranties and developed with industry-leading standards, VURA products are ideal for both residential and commercial applications.

   

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying waterproof coatings on damp or dirty surfaces - poor adhesion.
• Neglecting roof drainage outlets - even one blocked outlet can cause serious water pooling.
• Ignoring small cracks believing they are cosmetic - they grow.
• Delaying repairs until after damage has set in - more costly.

Conclusion

Proper waterproofing maintenance before and after rains isn’t just about protecting walls or roofs; it’s about preserving your home’s integrity, health, and value. At VURA, we advocate treating waterproofing as an ongoing partnership - regular checks, timely repairs, using correct materials - so that when the rains come, you stay dry and stress‑free.