The importance of water stops

Looking at concrete under a microscope, we see that it is full of holes.
Concrete, a solid formed of cement, sand and gravel, is littered with extremely fine holes called capillary pores. Water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, salt ions, etc. can fill these pores, weakening the concrete.

Water is involved in many cases of weakened concrete structures.
Water can be a direct cause of weakening or can undergo a chemical reaction which then causes weakening. Either way, protecting concrete from water is extremely important to increase its lifespan and prevent weakening.

Failure due to water in general housing

Failure due to water is one of the following water phenomena surrounding a house (building) entering via the walls, ceiling, balcony, external openings, etc. or leaks from pipes or equipment. This can cause dripping in a room or damage to the interior.

<Water surrounding a house (building)>

  1. ①Precipitation such as rain or snow.
  2. ②Water leaks due to failure, damage or improper usage of pipes and equipment.
  3. ③Moisture from the ground
  4. ④Condensation of atmospheric moisture

Water leaks not only cause disruption to habitability and daily life, but also decreases the structural safety and durability of the house in the following ways, and can cause mold, etc. to grow.
Therefore, if a leak is found, it is necessary to quickly find and stop the source and carry out the necessary repairs.

Also, although the character of failure due to condensation changes depending on if it is from precipitation (rain, etc.) or leaks from pipes or equipment, the failures due to water leaks in a house are often similar.

<Effects of water leaks>

  1. ①Peeled fitting, damage to property (mold, stains, etc.) and interior materials due to water seepage.
  2. ②Rotting of organic materials such as wood.
  3. ③Rust on steel reinforcements and metal bars.
  4. ④Structural failure due to expansion and contraction of materials caused by repeated drying and wetting.