Waterproofing materials protect overall structures or specific materials used to build a structure from deterioration. This is vital in order to keep the structural integrity of a building intact, and prevent the building from becoming unsafe for its inhabitants.
Good waterproofing materials should include air or vapour barriers to help control moisture in the walls of a building. Moisture breeds mold and mildew and can cause costly damage if not addressed in a timely manner.
Polyurethane Liquid Membrane
One of the most versatile waterproofing membranes available today is polyurethane. It comes as a liquid and is applied to walls or roofs to create a protective layer against water damage and infiltration. The polyurethane membrane is resistant to abrasion, weathering, and diluted acids, bases, and salts, making it ideal for use in wet areas like balconies and terrace roofs.
This type of waterproofing material is typically installed in multiple layers to ensure complete impermeability. It is also a very durable material, although it may start to degrade over time, especially in sunlight-heavy areas. IoT sensors can be deployed beneath the waterproofing layer to detect when it is beginning to break down or warp, allowing you to replace the coating quickly before damage and water leaks occur.
Unlike other membrane materials, such as bituminous membranes, this membrane does not contain any seams, which can be weak points in a waterproofing system. Moreover, the high coefficient of stretch means that it can expand and contract with the building without breaking or cracking. This makes it a great choice for buildings with complex shapes or structures that are constantly changing. Polyurethane membranes are also easy to install, as they do not require any special tools or preparation. They can be applied in layers that are compatible with existing roofing systems.
Vinyl Membrane
Vinyl membranes are a durable and affordable option for waterproofing walls and floors. They’re available in a wide variety of colors and patterns that can enhance the aesthetics of your building. They’re also manufactured with salt, mildew and UV inhibitors that make them suitable for use in areas prone to harsh weather conditions.
A proper waterproofing membrane is a critical component of any below grade construction project. It prevents moisture from infiltrating concrete and shotcrete structures, which can cause rusting, rot and structural damage to the foundation. Additionally, it can help protect against harmful gas infiltration, such as methane and radon.
Waterproofing membranes can be applied as a liquid coating or preformed sheets. Liquid membranes must be applied at the correct thickness to avoid leakage. Uneven application of liquid membranes can result in thick spots that restrict movement and thin areas that are prone to tears under minimal stress. The membrane should also be resistant to abrasion and accommodate any underlying movement in the structure.
Whether you’re building an office or creating an outdoor leisure space, waterproofing your foundation is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your building. A minor leak can quickly become a major problem if left unchecked, but stopping it before it spreads will save you the costly repairs of a damaged foundation. By choosing the right waterproofing membrane, you can ensure that your building is safe and secure for years to come.
Acrylic Membrane
A popular choice among liquid waterproofing materials for buildings, acrylic membrane is applied as a thick coating that prevents water molecules from penetrating the building structure. It is formulated to withstand a wide range of conditions, including high foot traffic and climate changes. The material also resists ultraviolet radiation and chemicals.
This waterproofing material comes in a sticky liquid emulsion form and holds well to concrete surfaces. It is commonly used to waterproof basements, toilets, foundations, and other horizontal and vertical surfaces. It is highly durable and provides flexibility, making it ideal for structures that experience expansion and contraction.
Liquid membrane waterproofing is typically affixed to substrates using spray application. It is also available as a sheet membrane for larger areas. Reinforcing fabric is usually incorporated into the system to enhance its strength and durability.
Acrylic is a machinable material that can be easily cut, drilled, and routed. This makes it an excellent choice for use in signage and other applications that require a sturdy and aesthetic finish.
Acrylic waterproofing materials do not breathe, but some companies are developing breathable acrylic formulations that allow water vapor to pass through. Breathable membranes offer a more sustainable solution to waterproofing for buildings. They are also more effective at preventing moisture-related problems, such as condensation and energy loss. This is particularly important for high-rise buildings that are constantly exposed to the elements.
Rubber Membrane
Waterproofing membranes protect the building structure from water damage, ensuring a safe and healthy work or living environment. However, not all waterproofing membranes are created equal. Choosing the right waterproofing material is critical, as it will ensure the longevity of your building and prevent future problems.
Different waterproofing membranes are used depending on whether the building is above or below ground level. Above ground level waterproofing systems are usually made of chemical and liquid membranes while below ground waterproofing systems are often prefabricated sheet membranes.
Liquid membranes can be spray-applied, cold-fluid-applied, or hot-applied. They can be made of polyurethane elastomers, bitumen, or epoxy resins. Spray-applied membranes are sensitive to major temperature fluctuations, and they need to be cured at a consistent temperature.
A rubber membrane is a high-density elastomeric waterproofing material. It is made of natural and synthetic elastomers extracted from End-of-Life Tires (ELT) and bound by polyurethanes, sandwiched between two layers of modified bitumen. It has a good mechanical resistance to tearing and impact, and it can also be flexed or stretched up to 100 percent of its original length.
Waterproofing membranes are an important component of any construction project, but they’re especially vital for below-grade structures. Without a proper waterproofing barrier, concrete and shotcrete can deteriorate or crack due to pressure from soil and groundwater. In addition, mold spores can grow in humid areas that aren’t properly waterproofed, leading to health issues and lost productivity.