Tag top-floor apartment

I purchased a top-floor apartment primarily for its affordability and the inclusion of a 100-square-meter terrace, with a total cost of 2.6 million, comparable to non-top-floor units without such a bonus.

Initially, my family opposed the decision due to concerns about heat and potential leaks, but I insisted, as I wanted to avoid noise from upper floors after experiencing disturbances in lower-level living. However, just two years after moving in, the terrace began leaking, necessitating a comprehensive waterproofing renovation.

With guidance from a recommended professional, I followed a method that promises leak-free performance for up to 20 years. The process involved multiple steps: First, remove any existing waterproofing and insulation to expose the concrete structure. If there are pipes or electrical conduits, apply a leveling layer with a slope toward the drainage outlet to protect them during construction.

Next, address细节 at wall corners using polyester fabric and white waterproof mortar for a three-coat application to prevent cracking. Create slopes in corners to avoid water accumulation.

Then, apply a cold primer evenly and let it dry for at least 4 hours before using rubberized asphalt coating on high-risk areas like wall roots and corners for enhanced protection.

For waterproof membrane installation, start with an additional layer in critical zones using a heat-welding method with over 20cm width to meet standards. Fully adhere and weld the membrane with 10cm overlaps, followed by a 24-hour water test for leaks.

Add insulation: use an air gap for non-walkable areas and 5cm thick extruded polystyrene boards for terraces. Finish with a cement mortar protective layer, leveling with a slope, and install tiles or wooden flooring.

This approach has proven reliable over five years, with expectations of lasting two decades, and costs around 110 per square meter, making it a cost-effective solution.