Waterproofing 101: Top monsoon-ready tips for you

Here are some easy-to-do waterproofing tips for your wooden accessories, doors, and furniture, among other things.
 

●    Make sure your wooden furniture is not too close to windows or balcony doors, or walls. You don’t want droplets accidentally hitting your wooden surfaces.

●    Good ventilation is a must. A healthy amount of airflow is anathema to mold and mildew, thus preserving damage to wooden surfaces.

●    Waxing or polishing wooden elements will provide a waterproofing barrier. It makes wood impervious to the ill effects of water.

●    There are plenty of alternatives for some serious long-term wood waterproofing. This includes a sealant, a liquid that’s applied on surfaces as a protective layer.

●    You can choose between epoxy-, polyurethane- or acrylic-based options. Before you go down this route, speak to an expert because knowing the right one also depends on the current condition of the wood and the climate the wood will be exposed to.

●    Another great option is waterproofing or water-resistant tape. It is especially useful when glued near areas of ingress—window joints, doorways—from where water could seep in. 

●    Hide away silica gel packets or camphor balls inside drawers or cabinet and wardrobe corners. They go a long way in soaking up the moisture and are readily available on Amazon. Camphor balls will keep away termites too.

●    Most importantly, regularly clean your wood surfaces during the rains, either wiping them down with a soft cloth. Be vigilant about any spills too and take care of them as soon as you can.

WoodTech Aquadur by Asian Paints is a low-VOC and user-friendly way to save you wooden furniture from the elements. 

WATERPROOFING WALLPAPERS

Everyone loves a good wallpaper; it is the easiest way to transform your wall into a statement. The question is, how do you rescue it from the rains? This is what you can do—decorators’ varnish! This is quite a bit like varnishing your wooden furniture.

But first, to lock in the waterproofing, here are some pre-wallpapering precautions to take:
 

●    Be sure that the surface of the wall is completely clean and without cracks. Then apply the wallpaper and let it dry for the next day or two.

●    Only once it’s completely dry, make sure there are no cracks in the wallpaper; it could be a problem if the varnish seeps through the layers.

●    Choose the kind of varnish to use—matte, satin or high gloss. Consult a professional before you make a choice.

You can also always opt for waterproof wallpapers. They come in four varieties—PVC, vinyl, self-adhesive or 3D.

WATERPROOFING YOUR FURNISHINGS

If you want to avoid mould and mildew, then think about those furnishings too.
 

●    Trade in your heavy drapes for lighter, easy-to-clean curtains.

●    Those camphor balls and silicone gel packets will also work wonders to keep your fabrics, linens and clothes dry during the monsoon so use them liberally.

●    Keep your leather-upholstered furniture away from the windows and doors and mop up any moisture spots quickly.

●    Use rubber mats near doorways so that they absorb water immediately before it can reach the floor. This should be a general best practice and not only for wooden flooring.

Pro Tips:

• Whether it is walls or ceilings, to tackle dampness along with efflorescence, try out the SmartCare Hydroloc Xtreme while the SmartCare Damp Sheath Interior should work if you’re only dealing with dampness. For joint troubles, Asian Paints’ SmartCare AkrylMax is your go-to option.
  
  
• If you’re looking for waterproof paint, opt for a glossy finish. The glossier it is, the better its moisture-resistance capability.
  
  
• Introduce de-humidifiers for the season as an added layer of caution. This is especially useful in regions of high humidity.
  
  
• Be very clear about the product that you need for your specific waterproofing needs. Don’t rely too heavily on DIY solutions via sealants. Sometimes you need an expert hand, especially when it comes to ensuring the longevity of your house health.
  
  
• If you live in a bungalow or a standalone house, you must consider external waterproofing too. Look at leaks in roofs, waterproofing outdoor furniture, external pipes and walls. And don't forget the basement.