Waterproofing in construction refers to the process of making a structure or surface impervious to water, to prevent water intrusion and damage. This can involve applying a waterproofing membrane, coating, or treatment to the surface of the building, or incorporating waterproofing systems into the design and construction of the building. The ultimate goal of waterproofing is to protect the building and its contents from water damage and ensure the long-term durability and functionality of the structure.
Type of waterproofing used in construction
There are several types of waterproofing used in construction, including:
- Liquid applied membranes
- Sheet membranes
- Integral waterproofing (concrete waterproofing)
- Coatings and paints
- Injection grouting
- Bentonite waterproofing
- Cementitious waterproofing.
The type of waterproofing used depends on the specific requirements of the construction project, such as the location and purpose of the building, the materials used, and the budget.
- Liquid applied membranes
Liquid applied membranes (LAMs) are thin, continuous films of polymer-based liquid that are applied to surfaces to form a waterproof barrier. They are commonly used in construction as a method of waterproofing roofs, balconies, foundations, and other structures.
The application procedure for liquid applied membranes typically involves the following steps:
- Surface preparation: The surface to be waterproofed must be clean, dry, and free of any contaminants that could affect the adhesion of the membrane.
- Priming: A primer is applied to the surface to improve adhesion and ensure a strong bond between the surface and the membrane.
- Application: The liquid applied membrane is applied to the surface using a roller, brush, or spray equipment. It is important to ensure that the membrane is applied evenly and in a continuous layer, with no laps or gaps.
- Curing: After application, the membrane must be allowed to cure and dry completely. The curing time will depend on the specific product and the conditions, but it typically takes several hours to a few days.
Typical uses of liquid applied membranes include:
- Roof waterproofing: Liquid applied membranes can be used to waterproof flat or low-slope roofs.
- Foundation waterproofing: LAMs can be used to waterproof basement walls and foundations to prevent water intrusion.
- Balcony and terrace waterproofing: Liquid applied membranes can be used to waterproof balconies and terraces, protecting the structure from water damage and ensuring the durability of the surface.
- Water tank and pond linings: LAMs can be used to line water tanks and ponds to prevent water leaks and ensure the structural integrity of the tank or pond.
Overall, liquid applied membranes are a versatile and effective method of waterproofing that offer a number of benefits, including ease of application, flexibility, and durability.
2. Sheet membranes
Sheet membranes are pre-manufactured, flexible sheets of waterproofing material that are used to create a barrier against water intrusion. They are commonly used in construction to waterproof roofs, foundations, and other structures.
The application procedure for sheet membranes typically involves the following steps:
- Surface preparation: The surface to be waterproofed must be clean, dry, and free of any contaminants that could affect the adhesion of the membrane.
- Priming: A primer is applied to the surface to improve adhesion and ensure a strong bond between the surface and the membrane.
- Installation: The sheet membrane is cut to the required size and shape and then placed over the surface. The edges of the sheet are sealed using a waterproofing sealant or adhesive to create a continuous barrier.
- Overlap and reinforcement: The sheet membrane is overlapped at the seams and reinforced using tapes, flashings, or other materials to ensure a watertight seal.
- Curing: After installation, the membrane must be allowed to cure and dry completely. The curing time will depend on the specific product and the conditions, but it typically takes several hours to a few days.
Typical uses of sheet membranes include:
- Roof waterproofing: Sheet membranes can be used to waterproof flat or low-slope roofs, as well as to create waterproof decks and balconies.
- Foundation waterproofing: Sheet membranes can be used to waterproof basement walls and foundations to prevent water intrusion.
- Below-grade waterproofing: Sheet membranes can be used to waterproof below-grade structures such as underground parking garages and retaining walls.
- Waterproofing of wet areas: Sheet membranes can be used to waterproof areas such as showers, bathrooms, and swimming pools.
Sheet membranes offer a number of benefits, including ease of installation, durability, and the ability to create a continuous, watertight barrier. However, care must be taken during installation to ensure that the seams are properly sealed and reinforced, to prevent water intrusion.
3. Integral waterproofing (concrete waterproofing)
Integral waterproofing, also known as concrete waterproofing, involves adding waterproofing agents or admixtures to the concrete mix during the manufacturing process. The waterproofing agents diffuse into the concrete and become a permanent part of the structure, providing a continuous barrier against water intrusion.
The application procedure for integral waterproofing typically involves the following steps:
- Design and specification: The design and specifications for the concrete mix must include the appropriate waterproofing admixtures, taking into account the specific requirements of the project.
- Batching and mixing: The waterproofing admixtures are added to the concrete mix at the time of batching and mixing. The amount and type of admixture used will depend on the specific requirements of the project and the conditions.
- Placement and curing: The concrete is placed and cured in the usual manner, with the waterproofing admixtures becoming a permanent part of the structure.
Typical uses of integral waterproofing include:
- Foundation waterproofing: Integral waterproofing is commonly used to waterproof basement walls and foundations, providing a continuous barrier against water intrusion.
- Underground structures: Integral waterproofing can be used to waterproof underground structures such as parking garages, tunnels, and retaining walls.
- Water containment structures: Integral waterproofing can be used to waterproof structures such as dams, water tanks, and reservoirs.
Integral waterproofing offers a number of benefits, including durability, ease of application, and the ability to create a continuous, watertight barrier. However, it is important to choose the appropriate waterproofing admixture for the specific requirements of the project, and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
4. Coatings and paints
Coatings and paints waterproofing involves the application of a waterproof coating or paint to the surface of a structure to prevent water intrusion. Coatings and paints can be used on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, masonry, wood, and metal.
The application procedure for coatings and paints typically involves the following steps:
- Surface preparation: The surface to be waterproofed must be clean, dry, and free of any contaminants that could affect the adhesion of the coating or paint.
- Priming: A primer is applied to the surface to improve adhesion and ensure a strong bond between the surface and the coating or paint.
- Coating or painting: The waterproof coating or paint is applied to the surface, following the manufacturer’s instructions. The coating or paint may be applied in one or more coats, and must be allowed to dry completely between coats.
- Curing: After the final coat is applied, the coating or paint must be allowed to cure and dry completely. The curing time will depend on the specific product and the conditions, but it typically takes several hours to a few days.
Typical uses of coatings and paints waterproofing include:
- Roof waterproofing: Coatings and paints can be used to waterproof flat or low-slope roofs, as well as to create waterproof decks and balconies.
- Foundation waterproofing: Coatings and paints can be used to waterproof basement walls and foundations to prevent water intrusion.
- Waterproofing of wet areas: Coatings and paints can be used to waterproof areas such as showers, bathrooms, and swimming pools.
- Waterproofing of walls and surfaces: Coatings and paints can be used to waterproof walls, floors, and other surfaces, providing a barrier against water intrusion.
Coatings and paints offer a number of benefits, including ease of application, versatility, and the ability to waterproof a wide variety of surfaces. However, care must be taken during application to ensure that the coating or paint is applied evenly and in sufficient thickness to provide a continuous, watertight barrier.
5. Injection grouting
Injection grouting waterproofing involves injecting a grout mixture into cracks or joints in concrete structures to seal them and prevent water intrusion. The grout mixture is typically composed of a combination of cement, water, and a polymer-based admixture.
The application procedure for injection grouting typically involves the following steps:
- Surface preparation: The surface to be waterproofed must be cleaned of any debris or contaminants that could affect the adhesion of the grout mixture.
- Identification of leaks: The source of the leak must be identified and the location of the cracks or joints that need to be sealed must be marked.
- Holes drilled: Holes are drilled into the concrete at the location of the cracks or joints, and the grout mixture is injected into the holes using a high-pressure pump.
- Grouting: The grout mixture is injected into the cracks or joints, filling them completely and sealing them against water intrusion.
- Curing: The grout mixture must be allowed to cure and harden completely, which typically takes several hours to a few days.
Typical uses of injection grouting include:
- Foundation waterproofing: Injection grouting can be used to seal cracks and joints in basement walls and foundations, providing a barrier against water intrusion.
- Waterproofing of underground structures: Injection grouting can be used to waterproof underground structures such as parking garages, tunnels, and retaining walls.
- Repair of leaks: Injection grouting can be used to repair leaks in concrete structures, sealing the cracks and joints that are causing the leaks.
Injection grouting offers a number of benefits, including ease of application, the ability to seal cracks and joints quickly and effectively, and the ability to provide a continuous, watertight barrier. However, care must be taken during the application process to ensure that the grout mixture is injected evenly and in sufficient quantity to provide a continuous, watertight seal.
6. Bentonite waterproofing
Bentonite waterproofing involves the use of sodium bentonite, a naturally occurring clay mineral, to create a barrier against water intrusion in construction structures. Bentonite is mixed with water to form a slurry that can be applied to the surface of a structure to create a waterproof barrier.
The application procedure for bentonite waterproofing typically involves the following steps:
- Surface preparation: The surface to be waterproofed must be clean, dry, and free of any contaminants that could affect the adhesion of the bentonite slurry.
- Installation of a waterproof membrane: A waterproof membrane, such as a plastic sheet, is typically installed on the surface to create a barrier against water.
- Mixing of the bentonite slurry: Sodium bentonite is mixed with water to form a slurry, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Application of the bentonite slurry: The bentonite slurry is applied to the surface, and is typically worked into the surface using a trowel or roller to ensure complete coverage.
- Curing: The bentonite slurry must be allowed to cure and dry completely, which typically takes several hours to a few days.
Typical uses of bentonite waterproofing include:
- Foundation waterproofing: Bentonite can be used to waterproof basement walls and foundations, creating a barrier against water intrusion.
- Waterproofing of underground structures: Bentonite can be used to waterproof underground structures such as parking garages, tunnels, and retaining walls.
- Waterproofing of retaining walls: Bentonite can be used to waterproof retaining walls, preventing water from seeping behind the wall and causing damage.
Bentonite waterproofing offers a number of benefits, including ease of application, natural resistance to water, and the ability to provide a continuous, watertight barrier. However, care must be taken during the application process to ensure that the bentonite slurry is applied evenly and in sufficient quantity to provide a continuous, watertight seal. Additionally, the sodium bentonite may need to be replaced periodically to maintain its effectiveness.
7. Cementitious waterproofing
Cementitious waterproofing involves the use of a waterproofing material that is based on Portland cement. The cement is mixed with other ingredients, such as sand, water, and waterproofing admixtures, to create a slurry that can be applied to concrete surfaces to create a barrier against water intrusion.
The application procedure for cementitious waterproofing typically involves the following steps:
- Surface preparation: The surface to be waterproofed must be clean, dry, and free of any contaminants that could affect the adhesion of the cementitious slurry.
- Mixing of the cementitious slurry: The ingredients are mixed together, following the manufacturer’s instructions, to form a slurry that can be applied to the surface.
- Application of the cementitious slurry: The cementitious slurry is applied to the surface, typically using a trowel or roller, and is worked into the surface to ensure complete coverage.
- Curing: The cementitious slurry must be allowed to cure and dry completely, which typically takes several hours to a few days.
Typical uses of cementitious waterproofing include:
- Foundation waterproofing: Cementitious waterproofing can be used to waterproof basement walls and foundations, creating a barrier against water intrusion.
- Waterproofing of underground structures: Cementitious waterproofing can be used to waterproof underground structures such as parking garages, tunnels, and retaining walls.
- Repair of leaks: Cementitious waterproofing can be used to repair leaks in concrete structures, sealing the cracks and joints that are causing the leaks.
Cementitious waterproofing offers a number of benefits, including ease of application, durability, and the ability to provide a continuous, watertight barrier. However, care must be taken during the application process to ensure that the cementitious slurry is applied evenly and in sufficient quantity to provide a continuous, watertight seal. Additionally, the curing process is critical to the success of the waterproofing, and the surface must be protected from moisture during the curing period.
