Waterproofing materials in construction need to be durable and easy to work with. They must be chemical-resistant and can accommodate building movement.
Polyurethane waterproofing membranes are versatile and can be used in both above and below grade applications. These membranes can be self-adhered or nailed down and are easy to use.
Bituminous Membranes
Bituminous membranes can be self-adhesive sheets or bonded to concrete using a compatible roofing mastic. Often, these membranes contain a felt layer to provide strength and spanning capability for roof decks. Felts also help reduce stress on the membrane from lateral forces. When installing these membranes, proper surface preparation is critical, as any imperfections can compromise the performance of the waterproofing system.
Bitumen polymer membranes offer outstanding strain resistance as well as vapor permeability and durability. These membranes are often used in conjunction with protection courses and insulation boards to provide a composite system that performs better than either material alone.
When installing these types of membranes, it is important to ensure that all end laps are heat welded and properly sealed, and to avoid air gaps. Additionally, these types of membranes should only be applied to substrates with low moisture content to prevent blistering. If blistering does occur, it is typically due to a moisture gradient between the surface of the membrane and the concrete.
Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
Waterproofing membranes protect buildings from above-grade bulk water infiltration and below-grade infiltration caused by hydrostatic pressure. This helps protect a building from costly damage, improves resale value and enhances occupant safety and comfort.
Liquid waterproofing membranes are applied as a liquid and cure in place to create a physical barrier to the elements. They are available in a variety of forms, including bituminous, cementitious, and polyurethane liquid systems.
Liquid products offer flexibility and can accommodate surface movements and minor cracks, they are also very durable with excellent resistance to weathering, UV radiation, and abrasion. These characteristics make them a great choice for modern wet areas and shower assemblies, that can be difficult to waterproof using sheet membranes that require overlapping accessories.
Cementitious Waterproofing Solutions
These types of waterproofing coatings are usually applied by brush, trowel or spray and provide a protective layer for concrete structures. They are able to resist positive and negative water pressures, and prevent damage from mold and mildew. They can be applied for above ground or below-ground applications, and are suitable for use in potable water systems.
This type of waterproofing uses a cement-based polymer mixture to give a solid, durable coating when fully cured. They can be used on walls, floors, roofs and retaining walls. They can withstand the effects of weathering, heat aging and exposure to UV rays.
The main advantage of this type of waterproofing is that it is easy to apply and relatively inexpensive. It is also highly durable and resistant to abrasions and chemicals. This material is best suited for residential and commercial use. It is also easy to repair if damaged, and it is ideal for use in wet areas like bathrooms.
Polyurethane Waterproofing
Polyurethane waterproofing membranes are a liquid-applied system that offers decisive advantages particularly where seamless systems are desired; either for structural or aesthetically reasons. They are easy to install and can be applied using spray, roller, or trowel. They also offer superior crack bridging and high tensile strength.
They are also highly flexible, which means they can accommodate structural movements and temperature changes without breaking or cracking da 0x4. This helps to prolong their lifespan. They are also resistant to chemicals and abrasion, making them a long-lasting waterproofing solution.
Polyurethane waterproofing coatings can be laid over materials like ceramic or wooden floor areas. They can prevent dust deposition, protect brightness and provide an aesthetic look to the surface. These coatings are also used in potable water tanks as they are highly resistant to corrosion and safe for use with drinking water. They can also be used as an underlay for wall waterproofing systems. They are available in a range of thicknesses and colours to suit various projects.