You must have heard of waterproofing at some point of time in your life. Waterproofing is mostly famous in today’s construction industry due to its benefits. Basically, waterproofing is the method used to protect concrete structures from water damage and leakages. A waterproofing membrane is a water-resistant layer applied to concrete surfaces to prevent water leaks and structural damage.

Waterproofing membranes always proved to be an easy and cost-effective solution. If any failure within the waterproofing membrane happens it could have a disastrous effect on the durability and integrity of construction’s structure, lead to health risks for people, and elevate the total cost of ownership. As a result, it’s important to understand membrane waterproofing, the different types of membranes, and how to use them correctly.

This blog is a comprehensive guide to membrane waterproofing, offering essential insights into the basics of waterproofing membranes, it’s importance, the differences between various types of membrane materials, and tips on how to choose the right one. It also includes best practices for ensuring proper installation and performance.

Importance of Waterproofing Membranes

The waterproofing membrane’s crucial role is to prevent the building from water damage and prevent further repairs on the structure. The building’s exposure to water can increase the foundation cracks, resulting in leakage issues, deterioration, and spalling that will need repairs.

Thus, it is crucial to understand the importance of membrane waterproofing to protect buildings from water damage issues in the long term. Let’s have a glance at the important benefits that waterproofing offers:

Excellent Safety: Without waterproofing membranes, a building’s structural integrity can be significantly compromised, creating an unsafe environment for people. Waterproofing is known to counter water leakages and protect buildings for a longer duration.
Building Strengthening: Waterproofing membranes are a powerful tool to safeguard buildings from the damaging effects of water. Rust, corrosion, structural defects, rottings, and risks to the property can be effectively reduced by preventing moisture intrusion.
Safe and Healthy Environment: Securing a building with waterproofing membranes/chemicals can provide a well-protected and maintained space to breathe. The walls and ceilings can be safeguarded from fungus, and mold growth which leads to health issues and allergies. Thus, waterproofing adds value to making the environment healthy.
Maximize property value, and minimize maintenance costs: Quality waterproofing is a wise investment recommended by many engineers and architects that can prevent water damage and reduce long-term maintenance costs. Due to this layer of protection, the property’s value can be increased in the future.

The importance of waterproofing shows how it safeguards a building’s life. Thus, handling water damage or leaks promptly is important to avoid more serious problems.

The air movement is accountable for 98% of total water vapor action in cavities of buildings as highlighted by the Energy Saver of the U.S. Department of Energy. It is a fact that air naturally flows from high to low-pressure areas through the easiest ways available i.e., through cracks or gaps.

This movement occurs quickly, thus sealing these unintended air paths by waterproofing is the best way to moisture control and protect the building. This practice is essential for ensuring the safety of building occupants by reducing exposure to airborne pathogens.

With air damage adding to water leakages, molds are also prevalent in buildings. Mold thrives in damp areas, such as spots with ceiling leaks, pipe issues, window gaps, or locations affected by flooding. Mold’s favorable places are cardboard, wood products, paper and its products, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, fabric, etc. Common indoor molds are Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Penicillium which positively support water damage.

In the view of above factors, any water entry even in vapor or humidity form could effectively result in an added risk of mold growth. When it comes to commercial infrastructures, such risky factors can affect your business by increasing illnesses associated with these pathogens.

Thus, in commercial buildings, this results in worsening customer experiences and lowering the productivity of workers. Therefore, due to these reasons and factors, appropriate waterproofing membrane safeguards from water damage in any form like – solid (ice), liquid (water), or gas (moisture).

Types of Waterproofing Membranes

To avoid the risk of water damage, different buildings require various kinds of waterproofing membranes. Best-quality waterproofing membranes protect the buildings’ roofs and basements from water leakages. This cost-effective solution can save building structures from costly consequences like cracking and joint problems. Below are the different types of waterproofing membranes:

Self-Adhesive Modified Bituminous Membrane: It is formulated by polymers, asphalt, and tackifiers, and may contain mineral stabilizers. The product can be used with polyester, fiberglass, or a blend of two.
Polymer Modified Bitumen Membrane: The polymer-bitumen roll-fed sheet membrane is one of the most widely used materials for creating a waterproofing layer in the construction industry. It can be utilized with an underlay for pitched roofs and also serves as a vapor barrier.
EPDM Membrane: The EPDM membrane is made from premium EPDM rubber, designed as an elastomeric waterproofing membrane. This material is completely resistant to weathering, offers excellent tensile and tear strength, and has notable elongation properties. It actively withstands heat aging, UV rays, oxygenated solvents, acids, alkalis, and ozone exposure.
Thermoplastic Membrane: It is a combination of polypropylene, ethylene-propylene, and many times fortified with polyester. Thermoplastic roof membranes are different from other commercial roofing systems. Sheets of thermoplastic membranes consist of colorants, flame retardants, UV absorbers, and other add-ins for attaining the required physical properties.
Bituminous (Asphalt) Membrane: Hot melt liquid rubber waterproofing systems can be used for roofs and podium decks to create a desired and seamless waterproof layer. These membranes are ideal for high green roofs and podiums and are often demanding for winter use in areas with cold temperatures.
Polyurethane Membrane: This type of polyurethane membrane can be water-based and fiber-enhanced which are designed for a diverse range of waterproofing applications. Tiles, beds, screeds, and other suitable materials should be used to cover the membrane.
Chemical Grouting for Sealing Cement Structures: After a complete cure, hydrophilic chemical grouts have flexibility and durability. This actively allows movement within the structure to occur smoothly without compromising with seals. Hydrophobic resins are often not recovered from compression due to their readiness after curing. If by any chance the structure moves, there is a high chance that the cell structure will be damaged and leaks will reappear. Low-viscosity hydrophobic chemical grout permeates loose and non-consolidated soils quickly.

With the above information on the types of waterproofing membranes, let’s now understand the application process of these membranes to avoid any risks of further damage.

Correct Application Procedure for Waterproofing Membranes

Waterproofing membranes are proven to be a necessary component to safeguard the structural integrity of the infrastructure, irrespective of size, scale, location, and type of building. The more damaging deterioration can happen if a leak is allowed to progress for a longer duration. Thus, treating minor leaks is better than rehabilitating the damage from a major one.

1. Inspection of Prior Material and Membranes Used:

Always notice the building’s response to various weather events and temperature variations that affect the building. Even before this, if you are inspecting prior membranes then analyze how the weather affected it or what issues continued to happen. Afterward, make a plan to decide which type of membrane you are going to use for waterproofing.

2. Surface Cleaning:

Prior to applying the waterproofing membrane, ensure that the materials are properly prepared and ready to apply. Manufacturers always include instructions for cleaning the area to remove debris, dirt, and other surface contaminants. Cleaning offers a space for better adhesion to the substrate.

3. Application of Waterproofing Membrane:

In general, waterproofing membranes are typically liquid or preformed sheets. In order to get complete protection from water, liquid-applied membranes should have the correct thickness. In the case of sheet membranes, joints between sheets are crucial and should follow the proper method of application to avoid the chances of leakage.

Things To Watch During The Application Process:

If any issues arise during the waterproofing process, then there is a strong possibility that the membrane will not function correctly and may fail to prevent water leakage. The following are most common installation mistakes that need to be taken care of:

An excessively thick waterproofing membrane can lead to re-emulsification and may result in splitting as the membrane dries.
Inappropriate application by poor workmanship may result in water leakage issues.
To protect the building properly, coating materials must be resistant and accommodate the building’s movement in adverse conditions. Any thin areas or spots and weak points can result in excessive blisters, wear, and ruptures.
Applying a waterproofing membrane before the structural elements are fully completed can lead to negative issues like bending or other flaws in the membrane.

What’s Important After Application of The Membrane?

To keep a check on the waterproofing membrane, destructive testing can be a successful technique to ensure the successful installation of the membrane and determine whether water leaks will continue to cause issues.
Routine maintenance and inspection can prevent further damage, and it’s better to verify that the installation was done properly. Identifying any signs of failure in installation can safeguard the building from expensive repairs. Always keep an eye out for stains, cracks, or visual cues to ensure that water damage will not occur.

The Importance of Inspections in Maintaining The Membrane

Once membrane waterproofing is done, taking specific steps can help prevent recurring water damage and eliminate the need for extra work. Always monitor and inspect the building can ensure that the water leaks are over.

Inspecting the waterproofing membrane regularly to check the signs of leaks can help prevent the requirement for replacements. It is important to pay careful attention to any signs of cracks or staining to detect the deterioration of the waterproofing membrane. Most issues have visual hints when water damage takes place.

Selecting the Right Waterproofing Service Provider

There are various waterproofing service providers in the market, however, it is the customer’s responsibility to identify the genuine and authentic ones to get the proper services. The following are the things to keep in mind while selecting the waterproofing service provider:

Company Background: A renowned waterproofing service provider always has a proper history of its clients that is verifiable. By checking the company background, customers can know about the company’s experience and expertise level. While inspecting references do not forget to ask about the experience with the company services, quality of professionalism, and availability of support after work completion.
Certifications and Achievements: By examining the certifications and achievements of service providers, customers can see the ability of the company to offer quality services. This can also showcase how the company is working towards making its best efforts to provide a quality service experience.
Licensed and Insured: Before taking any services from a waterproofing services provider, always ensure the company has appropriate licenses for its area of expertise. If waterproofing membranes are not installed properly by a professional contractor or company, then the warranty on the product often gets canceled.
Written Agreements: Having written agreements like contracts can protect customers as well as the contractor/company. Make sure that the contract has all the information about the proposed work, estimation of time to complete the work, and approximate cost.
Focus on Safety: It is important to note that the contractor or service provider should ensure the safety of its team, customer, and property. Selecting a trained team that values safety has a great importance and can prevent further mistakes and unnecessary costs.
Provides Inspection Services: A renowned service provider always provides inspection in cases of water damage. To take action against a particular issue or water damage, a skilled waterproofing company can pinpoint the source with their knowledge and expertise.
Knowledge of Waterproofing Materials: Always select a waterproofing membrane service provider that examines the total area to solve the potential issues and knows the proper solutions. There are most common signs of water damage, however, some are less obvious signs like cracks in walls, unusual odor, and a chalky white substance on the wall that can be identified by the professional contractor.
Guarantees Membrane Repair if It Fails Early: If additional membrane services are required, make sure the service provider will return. Failure to do so can cost customers more than expected therefore, the authentic service provider can save you money and time. Having an agreement with a contractor in writing ensures that the contractor will fulfill their commitment when needed.

Other than waterproofing membranes, waterproofing chemicals are popular to offer the best waterproof layers to eliminate water leaks and enhance the durability of the structure. Below are some major tips to choose the best quality waterproofing chemical manufacturer to get complete safety from water leaks.

Tips for Selecting a Waterproofing Chemical Brands

Successful waterproofing requires a well-thought-out plan that helps preserve the building’s structural integrity while staying within budget. Locating the right manufacturer with industry expertise is the key to getting authentic waterproofing membranes. Below are some important points to keep in mind when finalizing a waterproofing manufacturer:

Manufacturer Journey:

A renowned waterproofing chemical manufacturer should have an official and verifiable satisfied clientele. The manufacturer journey can help prospective clients to know their experience level. Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd is one of the leading construction chemicals manufacturers that has been working in this industry for the last 20 years with more than 50,000+ successful and happy clients.

Authenticity:

When purchasing any type of waterproofing membranes always make sure that the company is genuine and has proper licenses. Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd is an established manufacturer with complete licenses to manufacture and sell waterproofing chemicals.

Completed Projects:

The number of completed projects by the manufacturer represents its value in the industry. Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd worked on various projects and we proudly announced that we had completed more than 170+ projects.

Values Safety:

The manufacturer should take appropriate steps to provide safety to their team, its clients, and the building itself. Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd places great emphasis on safety measures, ensuring strict precautions in manufacturing as well as the safety of chemicals to provide complete protection for the building.

Technical Support:

A professional construction chemical manufacturer offers extensive technical support services to its clients. Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd is known to offer total support to all its customers. So, when you purchase a product from us, it comes with complete technical support and assistance.

With the above benefits, Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd has an outstanding waterproofing chemicals range that you should not miss if you want to build a waterproof building.

Presenting a Variety of Waterproofing Chemicals of Sakshi Chem Sciences

Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd has made waterproofing chemicals with extensive research and composed of selected materials to protect the building from water leakage issues. Let’s take a look at the best in industry waterproofing chemicals:

1. Addage WPC Powder

Our Addage WPC Powder is a cost-efficient waterproofing chemical that is ready to use with various types of concrete and mortar.
It reduces the porosity of concrete and significantly improves its waterproofing properties leading to better building life.
Our WPC Powder meets the latest industry quality standards and it is available in a 25 kg bag.

2. Addage WPC Liquid

Our Addage WPC liquid waterproofing chemical is designed for applications that require strong, high-density concrete.
Addage WPC does not alter the core structural properties of the concrete and gives it an excellent waterproof layer that’s why it is our most selling product.
It’s completely suitable for use in roof slabs, balconies, canopies, return air trenches, defense structures, and more. It comes in 220 kg and 50 kg barrels and cans.

3. Addage Bondcote – E (Addcrete)

Addage Bondcote – E is our liquid waterproofing chemical that is specifically formulated for applications that demand high-quality, dense concrete.
Its best feature is that it does not compromise the core structural integrity of the concrete.
It can be applied to roof slabs, balconies, canopies, return air trenches, defense structures, and more. It is available in 220 kg and 50 kg barrels and cans.

Our best-in-class waterproofing chemicals are proven to provide complete waterproofing to buildings. Our products prevented buildings from future damage and improved the integrity of the building’s waterproofing layers.

Why Choose Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd?

In the construction industry, Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd is a leading manufacturer to offers advanced construction chemicals that align with industry standards. Our aim is to provide a complete solution to our customer’s diverse requirements in the construction industry.

We are known for our best-quality construction chemicals that are formulated with proper research and tests. We have made our products more cost-efficient to meet customer demands. Our technical team is highly trained to provide complete assistance on project requirements and offer you customized quotations, recommendations for quality products, and appropriate advice to make your plan work.

Backed by 20+ years of industry experience, Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd has made a mission to lead on the path of delivering premium quality and cost-effective construction chemicals to its customers. Our dedication to product excellence has positioned us as one of the top exporters of construction chemicals in India and we are proudly serving a growing global network across Southeast Asia, Europe, Middle East, Europe, and more.

Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd is now offering an extensive range of 200+ advanced construction chemicals designed to meet the evolving demands of modern world projects. From groundbreaking infrastructure to bespoke construction efforts, our construction chemical products empower builders and architects to achieve unmatched performance, durability, and sustainability.

When you buy a product from us, you are choosing a trusted brand that prioritizes high quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our support team is committed to supporting your goals, ensuring that every product we offer meets the highest standards of effectiveness and reliability.

Are you looking for waterproofing chemicals or any construction chemicals to bring your next project to life? Connect with us today to know how we can help make your construction goals a stronger reality.

Ultimate Guide to Membrane Waterproofing, Its Types and Uses