How to solve infiltration in the slab with ceramic?

Antonio Neves
Written by
Antonio Neves
Published on
9/3/2024
Updated on
9/5/2024
How to solve infiltration in the slab with ceramic?

The infiltration of the ceramic slab is a problem that can affect several buildings - especially works with large terrace areas. And we know that water damage can be severe over time, right?

Generally, seepage into the slab is caused by waterproofing flaws during the construction process and requires repair. But is it possible to solve this problem without breaking the floor? What are the best ways to bypass seeps?

In this article we will see how to solve infiltration in the slab with ceramic. Check it out!

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Main dangers of seeping into ceramic slabs

Do you know what hidden dangers an infiltration of the slab can cause? Here are the main ones:

1. Mold and mildew problems

Mold and mildew are probably the most serious problems that can develop due to an infiltration. These fungi usually appear, grow, and develop in humid places. For this reason, even a few drops of water a day can lead to the creation of wet spots that can give rise to mold.

Mold and mildew can spread to very different areas of your home, including walls, floors, wood frames, furniture, carpets, and even clothing. In addition, these fungi can be toxic and difficult to remove—causing a major headache.

2. Effects on health

Mold and mildew are not only harmful to the structural components of your home, but they can also pose serious health risks, especially for those with respiratory problems and asthma. Fungal spores are known to cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, inflammation and pain in the nose and throat, coughing, sneezing, itching, and other adverse effects.

3. Attic and ceiling damage

If you have an attic, the leaks coming from the slab can damage that area and the things you stored there. And, if you don't have one, the damage will be on the roof of your house. This damage can spread and affect the integrity of your walls and even damage your ceiling mounted lights and fans.

4. Structural Damage

In addition to the attic and ceiling, infiltration of the slab with ceramic can cause significant structural damage to beams, wall structure, ceiling beams, wood decay, damage to the structure, etc. All of this can result in high costs and extensive repairs, so it is important to resolve the situation while the damage is still minor and recoverable.

5. Fire risk

One of the most unexpected dangers of seeping into the slab is the risk of fire. When moisture hits areas with electrical wiring, you run the risk of short circuits that can result in electrical fires and thus serious damage.

For this reason, when the moisture from the seep is reaching places close to the electrical wiring, it is always recommended to turn off the electricity and request a professional to deal with the matter.

6. Financial Damages

Finally, an infiltration of the slab can also have a significant impact on your budget. The potential hazards described earlier, such as compromised structural integrity, damage to the ceiling, attics, walls, as well as the appearance of mold and mildew, are all problems that can be complex and expensive to solve.

How to solve seep problems in the ceramic tile?

Many people choose to build ceramic slabs because they think that this is a way to prevent infiltration. However, this is not an absolute truth. The ceramic is porous and, as a result, the water will end up seeping in the same way.

In other words, the mere presence of ceramic in the slab does not solve infiltration problems.

But how to resolve an infiltration in the slab? Is it necessary to break the floor? Or remove the entire tile floor?

The answer to solving an infiltration in the slab lies in waterproofing. By using the right products, it is possible to completely eliminate the risks of infiltration - without the need to break floors or make significant changes.

Advantages of waterproofing the slab

When choosing to waterproof the slab, there are several benefits obtained:

  • It prevents deformities in the structure. By waterproofing the slab, you prevent structural damage that could be caused by moisture from the seep over time.
  • Economy with maintenance. ‍ The absence of waterproofing causes numerous inconveniences and financial losses. Many people believe that by not applying this technique they are saving money, however it is a mistake. The cost generated to correct the service not executed is much higher.
  • Preservation of aesthetics. As we highlighted earlier, the moisture that seeps into the slab causes stains, mold and peeling of the paint, affecting the visual of the environment. Waterproofing is essential to prevent infiltration, preserving the aesthetics and valuation of the property.
  • Durability of the construction. ‍ When applying waterproofing products to the slab, a thin, imperceptible layer forms, protecting against water penetration. In this way, the waterproofing guarantees more strength and durability for the work.
  • Health protection. ‍ Buildings that do not have waterproofing, or that have received poor quality service, tend to be more susceptible to moisture. This, in turn, favors the proliferation of fungi and bacteria that can trigger respiratory and allergic problems, such as asthma, conjunctivitis, and rhinitis.

Ensure the waterproofing of the slab with Blok products!

Blok products are the missing layer to solve your slab infiltration problems!

We have two product lines that can help you eliminate, once and for all, infiltration in the ceramic slab:

BlockTume Asphalt Waterproofing

BlokTume is a special line of Blok products with ultra-resistant asphalt waterproofing paints composed of a high concentration of diluted asphalt, which guarantees excellent coverage when applied to surfaces.

With high adhesion, chemical resistance, high covering power, waterproof and quick-drying, they guarantee versatility for any challenge in your work.

To waterproof your slab, your ideal solution is the BlokTume Flex AC!

Acrylic waterproofer

More than maintaining the excellence of your construction, we are always at your side. Ready to face any challenge. And with the Blok product line you are guaranteed the highest quality at every stage of your construction.

That's why we offer a complete line of acrylic waterproofing additives and resins for mortars and concrete.

Presented in flexible and semi-flexible versions, our products meet all the waterproofing needs of areas with positive or negative hydrostatic pressures.

In structured waterproofing applications, your ideal solution is Blok ST!

As for structure-free waterproofing applications, you need to know the RF Block!

Did you already know how to solve infiltration in the slab with ceramic? Do you want to learn more about how Blok products can help you? Then get in touch with our team!

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