How Do I Stop Water From Seeping Through Concrete Blocks?
How Do I Stop Water From Seeping Through Concrete Blocks?
Water can be stopped from seeping through concrete blocks by installing an exterior waterproofing membrane. Like foundation waterproofing, exterior waterproofing is necessary to prevent water from seeping through the exterior of your home.
It also prevents water damage and interior flooding, as water cannot travel into your home through the foundation.
Exterior waterproofing membranes can be installed inside or outside your home. The type of membrane you choose will depend on the look you are going for, accessibility to the area that needs repairing, and the overall budget for this project.
The most commonly used products for this application are EPDM and TPO.
How Do You Install Interlocking Concrete Blocks?
A special pre-cast concrete block called an interlocking block is intended to hold together utilizing pre-measured holes and depressions. Here is how to set up interlocking concrete blocks correctly:
1. Determine Your Desired Size Of Concrete Blocks.
Choosing the precise size of the needed blocks is one of the first stages in installing interlocking concrete blocks from environs.
There are several ways to measure, just as with any product. Before determining which type to use, measuring the area where you intend to place them is usually best.
There are a variety of sizes and thicknesses to pick from if you have a big space to deal with. However, if you’re working with a smaller space or a tighter budget, it’s preferable to go with the size you had in mind initially.
2. Mark The Area.
Check the area where you want to place the blocks once you have all the materials ready. Look around for any irregularities that could impact how smooth the finished concrete block turns out. Using sand or pebbles is the ideal time to fill any gaps or holes.
After that, mark the location of the interlocking concrete block installation with a powder. This can help you recall the area more easily, especially when you’re about to begin drilling.
3. Dig The Soil.
Check the dirt for any loose pieces or residues before excavating it. Depending on the depth you choose, you can start digging or unearthing after completing this stage.
The standard measurement must be at least six inches to contain the gravel, soil, and crushed dirt. You must dig at least two inches deeper if your driveway is made of interlocking concrete blocks.
4. Lay The Bedding Sand.
Before installing the new base, the bedding sand must be applied to the surface until it is level and smooth. Use the same quantity of cement on both sides of the grout to produce a level and long-lasting surface. The bedding sand combination should typically be around an inch deep.
To provide a fine and ideal level, bedding sand must be stable. The concrete blocks will remain in place since it is a sturdy support bases, which is more crucial.
5. Install The Edge Restraint.
Sturdy edge restraint is essential because it may eliminate any movement brought on by the blocks and the sand bedding.
Examples of edge restrictions frequently used include preexisting hard edges, such as the sides of a home. Molded restraints and concrete restraints are further types.
6. Lay The Interlocking Blocks.
You may lay it down by adhering to the pattern you want to exhibit as you stack the interlocking bricks.
You want the alignment to be exact, so take your time throughout this step. The objective is for all of the concrete blocks to fit together seamlessly.
7. Cut The Edges Of The Blocks.
Cutting the block edges is more of an aesthetics-focused stage for your concrete block project. It aids in producing a smooth, orderly, and presentable end result.
8. Vibrate Or Sand The Blocks.
You must put a layer of sand over the pavers once all the blocks are in position and the edges have been trimmed and smoothed.
Once this is finished, the interlocking process may begin by running a vibrating plate compactor over it at least twice. Sand that is still available should be swept into any leftover gaps until they are fully filled.
