History of Waterproofing of buildings: Residents of ancient Mesopotamia coated adobe buildings with layers of bitumen. The Egyptians used natural resins and fats to seal ships and buildings. Ancient Romans used opus signinum, a mixture of lime, sand and crushed pottery, to waterproof their impressive aqueducts, cisterns and thermal baths.
During the Middle Ages, construction of great cathedrals and castles made waterproofing essential. Medieval builders developed a number of ingenious techniques to repel water. Here are some of the most common techniques of that era:
- Gable roofs shed rainwater quickly, preventing accumulation and possible seepage.
- Terracotta tiles: Their shape and layout diverted water to the edges, channeling water away from the structure.
- Dense masonry of stone or brick minimised cracks, reducing leaks.
- Lime and mortar was used to bind stones and bricks together. Lime provided strong structural bonds and acted as a water repellent.
- Oil and resin treatment of wooden structures, such as roof beams or doors, rendered them water resistant.
- Gutters and drainpipes: Although rudimentary, gutters and drainpipes directed water away from building foundations.
- Lead coatings: Expensive buildings, such as cathedrals, boasted lead roofing and lead protection of surfaces exposed to water. The material was particularly effective in preventing leaks.
- Raised foundations helped to prevent damp from rising from the ground.
- Drainage systems: Drainage systems were built to prevent accumulation of water.
