Waterproofing refers to the process of applying impermeable layers to the surfaces of foundations, walls, roofs, and other parts of a building. These layers can be made of concrete, leather, or fabric and their purpose is to provide a surface impermeable barrier that stops water from penetrating the building.
The utilization of such things or constructions is possible in damp conditions or underwater up to a certain depth.
Waterproofing a foundation implies that even when the building is completely inundated, water will not enter the concrete walls. The many solutions used to waterproof a foundation are together referred to as damp proofing.
Benefits of Liquid Water Proofing
Among the many benefits of waterproofing are:
- Reduced water absorption
- Stops the floor from cracking as a result of normal wear and use
- Conveniently, the appliance may be used by anybody
- It will lengthen the service life of a sturdy building
- Reinforcement corrosion is avoided
- Serves to keep the inside dry
- Stops water from getting in via the roof or walls
- There will be less money spent on repairs and upkeep of the structure
- It is possible to raise the value of the property
Waterproofing Methods
Waterproofing using cement
The ingredients needed for cemented waterproofing are readily available, simple to mix, and straightforward to apply, making it the most accessible waterproofing option.
Waterproofings are often stiff or semi-flexible, thus they are utilized inside in locations like bathrooms and other spaces that are protected from the elements.
In this way, the process of constraining and expanding does not produce a narrowed waterfall.
Waterproofing membrane
In comparison to cementitious waterproofing, the liquid membrane’s additional adaptability comes from its thin covering consisting of a priming layer and topcoat applied by spray, roller, or trowel.
The longevity of a waterproofing coating is determined by the quality of the manufacturer, and it consists of a rubber coating on the wall whose liquid is dried to provide surface elongation qualities that may reach 280%.
The liquid layer of polymer-modified asphalt, which comes in a variety of grades for use with trowels, rollers, or sprays, may be applied in this way.
Bituminous coating
The waterproofing properties of asphalt coating, also known as bituminous coating, are impacted by polymer grades and fiber reinforcement.
Bituminous coatings, especially on surfaces like concrete foundations, are often used under wet bolts.
Since flexible materials like polyurethane or acrylic-based polymers become very brittle when exposed to sunshine, these waterproofings are composed of bitumen-manufactured material. The reliability of the polymer component added to the bitumen is what gives it its adaptability.
Waterproofing using a bituminous membrane
Although it is inefficient, bituminous waterproofing is often employed on low-slope roofs. The method entails applying a torch-lit, self-adhering membrane over the top.
Asphalt, polymers, and filler are the base components of self-adhesive compounds. However, resins and oils are added to enhance adherence.
Torch sealing and a self-adhering waterproof membrane are used to cover a layer of flexible asphalt in this technique.
Liquid polyurethane membranes
This very flexible polyurethane liquid membrane is installed on flat rooftops where it is subjected to the elements. Because of its extreme sensitivity to moisture, polyurethane requires a thorough evaluation of the moisture level in the air before application.
Take Away
The process of waterproofing concrete is an essential component of the building process. This process is a solution that may minimize shrinkage, permeability, chemical resistance, and other characteristics.
