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Best Waterproofing Solutions for Old Houses in Ghana: Expert Advice from CETECH Ghana

ByCETECH GHANA

Introduction: Why Dampness Is a Big Problem in Ghanaian Homes

In Ghana, especially in cities like Accra, Tema, Kumasi, and Cape Coast, many homeowners struggle with damp walls, seepage, peeling paint, mould, and cracks. These problems usually become worse during the rainy season when humidity is high and water pressure against buildings increases.

Most old or completed houses in Ghana were built years ago with little or no proper waterproofing. Over time, cracks develop in plastered walls, rainwater penetrates the structure, and moisture starts showing inside the house. Many people try quick fixes, but the problem keeps returning.

One common question CETECH Ghana receives is:

“Can I use Dr Fixit 101 to stop dampness in my finished house?”

This article explains why Dr Fixit 101 alone is not enough for completed houses, and what proper waterproofing solutions in Ghana should be used instead. The goal is to help homeowners, masons, contractors, and developers make the right choice the first time.

See list of waterproofing products and solutions available at CETECH Ghana.

What Causes Dampness and Seepage in Ghanaian Homes?

Understanding the cause is the first step to choosing the right solution.

1. Poor Waterproofing During Construction

Many buildings in Ghana were constructed without waterproof additives or surface protection. Foundations, walls, and roofs were left exposed to moisture from the beginning.

2. Cracks in Old Plaster and Concrete

As buildings age, hairline cracks and wider cracks appear due to:

  • Heat and weather changes
  • Foundation movement
  • Poor-quality plastering

These cracks allow rainwater to enter the walls.

3. Heavy Rainfall and High Humidity

Ghana experiences intense rainfall and long periods of humidity. Once water penetrates a wall, it becomes trapped, leading to:

  • Damp patches
  • Salt deposits
  • Paint bubbling and peeling

This is why waterproofing for old houses in Ghana requires a different approach from new construction.

What Is Dr Fixit 101 and When Should It Be Used?

Dr Fixit 101 is a liquid waterproofing additive. It is designed to be mixed into cement, mortar, or concrete during construction or repairs.

Dr Fixit 101 Uses in Ghana

Dr Fixit 101 works best when:

  • Casting new concrete
  • Plastering new walls
  • Re-plastering damaged sections
  • Screeding floors

It helps reduce water absorption inside the cement mix itself.

Important Point to Understand

Dr Fixit 101 is NOT a surface waterproof coating.
It does not form a protective layer on already plastered or painted walls.

Why Dr Fixit 101 Alone Is Not Enough for Completed Houses

This is where many homeowners make mistakes.

For a completed and plastered house with existing dampness, simply adding Dr Fixit 101 will not stop water penetration because:

  • Water is already entering through cracks and pores on the wall surface
  • There is no external or internal waterproof barrier
  • Moisture remains trapped inside the wall

Common Mistake

Many people:

  • Mix Dr Fixit 101 with cement
  • Apply it over damp walls
  • Paint immediately

The result?
The wall looks fine for a short time
Dampness returns after the next rainy season

To truly solve the problem, surface waterproofing products are required.

Recommended Waterproofing Solutions from CETECH Ghana

CETECH Ghana offers a range of proper waterproofing products in Ghana that are suitable for old and completed buildings. These products work on the surface, not just inside the cement.

1. Polyurethane Waterproof Coating

(Highly recommended for old houses)

A polyurethane waterproof coating creates a strong, flexible waterproof membrane on walls and roofs.

Best for:

  • External walls with seepage
  • Roof slabs
  • Areas exposed to heavy rain

Why it works:

  • Seals cracks and pores
  • Prevents water from entering the wall
  • Durable under Ghana’s weather conditions

This is one of the best waterproofing products in Ghana for long-term protection.

2. Waterproof Paint (Ezzy Waterproof Paint)

Ezzy Waterproof Paint is not ordinary paint. It is designed to resist water penetration while improving appearance.

Best for:

  • External walls
  • Internal damp-prone areas
  • Final protective layer after waterproof coating

Benefits:

  • Helps stop wall dampness in Ghana
  • Covers minor hairline cracks
  • Improves durability of the wall finish

3. Bitumen Emulsion Waterproofing

(Bitumen Waterproofing for Buildings)

Bitumen-based waterproofing is ideal for areas in direct contact with soil or water.

Best for:

  • Foundations
  • Retaining walls
  • Base of buildings
  • Damp-prone lower walls

Why use it:

  • Strong resistance to moisture
  • Excellent for underground and ground-level protection

4. Waterproof Bonding Agents for Repairs

Before any waterproof coating is applied, cracks and damaged plaster must be repaired properly.

Waterproof bonding agents help:

  • Improve adhesion between old and new plaster
  • Reduce water penetration in repaired areas
  • Strengthen mortar repairs

This step is critical when fixing cracks and damp walls in Ghana.

Step-by-Step Expert Waterproofing Advice for Old Houses

Here is the correct method recommended by CETECH Ghana for completed houses:

Step 1: Inspect the Building

  • Identify damp areas
  • Locate cracks and weak plaster
  • Check external walls first

Step 2: Repair Cracks and Damaged Plaster

  • Open cracks properly
  • Remove loose plaster
  • Repair using cement mixed with a waterproof bonding agent

Step 3: Apply a Bonding Agent

  • Improves adhesion
  • Reduces future cracking
  • Strengthens repairs

Step 4: Apply Surface Waterproof Coating

  • Use a polyurethane waterproof coating or bitumen emulsion where appropriate
  • Ensure full coverage
  • Follow recommended drying times

Step 5: Apply Final Protective Paint

  • Use waterproof paint for walls
  • Enhances durability and appearance

This system approach gives long-lasting waterproofing for old houses in Ghana.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many waterproofing failures come from these mistakes:

  • Using only additives on finished walls
  • Ignoring visible cracks
  • Painting over damp surfaces
  • Skipping surface waterproof coatings

Avoiding these errors saves money and prevents repeated repairs.

Why Buy Waterproofing Products from CETECH Ghana?

CETECH Ghana is more than just a supplier. It is a trusted source of construction waterproofing advice in Ghana.

Why Choose CETECH Ghana?

  • Physical store in Accra
  • Expert guidance for homeowners and contractors
  • Quality waterproofing products available online
  • Reliable delivery within Accra and beyond

When you buy CETECH Ghana waterproofing products, you also gain access to professional advice tailored to Ghana’s building conditions.

Conclusion: Get the Right Waterproofing Solution the First Time

If your house is already completed and you are experiencing dampness, seepage, or cracks, Dr Fixit 101 alone is not enough. It is best used during construction or re-plastering, not as a final waterproofing solution.

For lasting results, homeowners should combine:

  • Proper crack repairs
  • Waterproof bonding agents
  • Surface waterproof coatings
  • Waterproof paint for protection

CETECH Ghana provides the right products and expert advice to help you stop dampness permanently.

Visit the CETECH Ghana online store or their physical location in Accra to get expert guidance on the best waterproofing solutions in Ghana for your building.

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