Waterproofing is a process to protect buildings from water damage, by preventing water from penetrating into the structure. Waterproofing materials are applied as a barrier over surfaces of buildings that are prone to water damage, such as basements, walls and rooftops. Waterproofing agents help to keep the interior of buildings completely dry. This protects the structure against dampness, mold growth and physical damage.
Waterproofing products help to enhance the durability and integrity of buildings, such as homes, offices, shops, etc. by protecting against damage from wet weather conditions. Waterproofing is an essential step in construction or maintenance as it preserves the aesthetics and enhances the value of the property.
Table of Contents
In this blog, we will learn everything about waterproofing substances, including the types, uses and specific features.
Types Of Waterproofing Materials
There are several types of waterproofing elements available on the market. You can determine the right waterproofing agents according to the following factors –
- Area of application
- Type of water exposure or water damage
- Structure of the space
- Environment and climate
Let us now look at some of the most common types of waterproofing elements –
Cement-Based Waterproofing Elements
Cement-based waterproofing elements are the most used worldwide. They are also called ‘cementitious waterproofing products’ and usually applied on concrete surfaces. You will need to mix the material with cement and create a slushy liquid, which is easier to apply.
Cementitious waterproofing agents are mostly used in interior spaces, such as bathrooms, basements, and swimming pools where water pressure is high. This type of waterproofing material is affordable and durable. It often contains additives that improve the level of waterproofing.
Liquid Membrane Waterproofing Materials
Waterproofing Liquid products create a thin but consistent film over the targeted surface. This type of waterproofing agent is applied with a coat of primer and two rolls of paints, using a roller, sprayer or brush. Upon curing and drying, it creates a flexible film of coating.
Liquid membrane waterproofing agents are available in various types, depending on the type of additive or polymer used. For instance, you can buy liquid membrane waterproofing elements mixed with polyurethane, acrylic, silicon, epoxy, or bitumen.
Liquid Bituminous Waterproofing Substances
Liquid bituminous waterproofing agents are also called ‘asphalt pavements’ and are excellent for long-lasting water-resistance for concrete surfaces. Bitumen is renowned for its water-repellent properties and its waterproofing variant is used on vertical and horizontal surfaces.
Liquid bitumen-laced waterproofing products adhere strongly to various surfaces, including concrete, metal, and masonry. This waterproofing product is also flexible and prevents cracks after it hardens.
Sheet Membrane Waterproofing Elements
Sheet membrane waterproofing products are developed as prefabricated sheets or rolls and are versatile, sturdy and easy to apply. These are mostly used to make roofs and terraces resistant to water damage.
You can buy sheet membrane waterproofing products in various thicknesses and sizes, according to the area of application. This waterproofing agent is affordable and offers consistent water resistance. Some of the most popular types of sheet membrane waterproofing agents are made from EPDM, PVC and bitumen.
Polyurethane Liquid Membrane Waterproofing Substances
Polyurethane is commonly used to create liquid membrane waterproofing elements. This type of waterproofing agent creates a flexible and consistent barrier against water seepage. It is mostly used on rooftops and protects the ceiling from extreme weather conditions, water seepage and dampness.
Need For Waterproofing Materials
Waterproofing agents are crucial to enhance the overall durability of buildings as they provide optimal protection against water damage. Prolonged leakage of water into buildings can significantly affect the integrity and durability of buildings.
Here are a few salient points to highlight the need for using waterproofing substances –
Enhancing Water Resistance
Waterproofing products prevent water from intruding into the building’s interior by creating a thin but consistent anti-moisture barrier. This helps to keep the structural components safe from damage caused by moisture, such as erosion, decay and corrosion.
Restricting Structural Deterioration
Prolonged water contact causes building elements to degrade over time. Using waterproofing agents helps to shield the building elements from exposure to moisture and restricts the pace of structural decay and degradation.
Preventing Mold And Mildew
Consistently moist environments are ideal for growth of mildew and mold. These are harmful to the health of people living or working inside the buildings and deteriorate the quality of air indoors. Waterproofing substances prevent water from leaking within structures and prevent growth of mold and mildew.
Preserving Aesthetic Appeal
Waterproofing products can effectively protect buildings from visible signs of water damage, such as cracks, stains, discoloration, and efflorescence.
Uses Of Waterproofing Substances
Waterproofing agents are useful to maintain the structural integrity of buildings against water damage. The exterior surfaces of buildings are prone to damage from harsh weather, wind, humidity, climate and heat which can cause significant degradation over time.
However, waterproofing products help to prevent or restrict the extent of damage to exterior surfaces from leakages, water seepage, water damage and humidity. Waterproofing elements quickly form a thin but seamless film over the surface they are applied, which acts as a protective barrier.
Below are some of the most common uses of waterproofing products –
- Basement waterproofing
- Roof waterproofing
- Balconies/decks waterproofing
- Foundation waterproofing
- Terrace waterproofing
- Interior waterproofing
- Exterior waterproofing
Features Of Waterproofing Materials
The specific types of waterproofing material required for any construction will depend on various factors. As a contractor or homeowner, the choice of waterproofing product will depend on the climate, environment, level of exposure to water, and the type of surface it is to be applied on.
These are the features of waterproofing elements that you should keep in mind to choose the best-suited waterproofing agent –
1. Specific Requirement
This requires knowing the area of application, identifying the level of water contact or exposure to the area, and the climate and environment of your location.
2. Choice Of Substances
The choice of waterproofing elements will depend on the individual strengths, weaknesses, and features of the different types of waterproofing agents.
3. Professional Consultation
It is highly recommended that you seek advice from construction experts and similar professionals to decide the specific features you need in a waterproofing product. These experts can provide the necessary information, such as the overall cost, suitable area of application and deeper insight into the best-suited waterproofing substances.
4. Application Process
You should also determine the specific type of application process you need to follow to apply waterproofing products. Waterproofing substances can be applied with a roller, sprayer or a brush.
Conclusion
Waterproofing materials are necessary to prevent water damage to building structures. The variety of waterproofing agents available today are designed to restrict water seepage, leakage, growth of mildew and mold and to preserve the structural integrity of the buildings. Make sure to choose waterproofing products from renowned and trusted brands, such as Sakshi Chem Sciences to get the most satisfactory results.