Construction waterproofing is very crucial for maintaining the building in the best condition for several years. Construction waterproofing also ensures that the building has a long life. Construction waterproofing involves forming of impervious barriers on the walls, roofs and foundations so that water cannot penetrate inside and damage them.

Some of the commonly used materials for construction waterproofing are bituminous materials, cementitious material, liquid material of polyurethane, a membrane of liquid waterproofing etc. Waterproofing is necessary for basement structures, kitchen bathrooms, walls, roof terraces, balconies, water tanks, green roofs and also the swimming pools.

Construction Waterproofing

Methods of Construction Waterproofing

• Cementitious waterproofing: The method of cementitious waterproofing is the most popular and also the easiest method of construction waterproofing. The masonry products being used in this method can be easily mixed and application is also absolutely simple. This particular waterproofing method is usually used for internal wet areas within the house such as bathrooms and toilets. This particular method specifically uses a semi-rigid or a rigid waterproofing membrane. This particular waterproofing method is not subject to expansion or contraction. This procedure is usually used for structures like the sewage treatment plants, water treating plants, dams, bridges, marine cargo docks and ports, subway systems, tunnels, parking structures etc.
• Liquid waterproofing: Liquid membrane waterproofing is a specialized method of thin coating that consists firstly of a primer and then double coats of the top coat that is usually applied with a roller, spray or trowel. The overall durability of this method of waterproofing largely depends on the quality of the polymer that is being used.
• Bituminous coating: the Bituminous coating is a method of coating used for waterproofing. This is a flexible and protective coat. The bituminous coating offers immense protection against water. This method is also commonly known as asphalt coating. The best applications of a bituminous coating are generally on the surface of concrete foundations. A bituminous coating is prepared out of bitumen containing materials and is strictly not suitable to be used on surfaces which are continuously exposed to sunlight. When a bituminous coating is exposed to sunlight for long, it becomes very fragile and brittle.

Construction Waterproofing

• Bituminous membrane: Bituminous membrane is largely used for construction waterproofing and is most effective for low-sloped roofs. Bituminous membrane waterproofing is a self-adhesive membrane and comprises several materials like polymers, asphalt and fillers. There are some oils & resins which are often used for enhancing the adhesive properties of the bituminous membrane. The exposed end of the membrane usually has an aggregate of granular minerals in order to withstand the vagaries of weathering. The contractors usually require applying the extra protective screen in order to prevent the membrane from getting punctured.
• Polyurethane Liquid Membrane: This is a popular method of waterproofing and is generally used for flat roofs, which are continuously exposed to weathering. Waterproofing is usually very expensive but offers a higher level of flexibility. The polyurethane is very sensitive to the content of moisture in the concrete slabs on which it is being used. Thus, de-bonding or peeling of the membranes is very important for best and long-term results.

The above methods of construction waterproofing are widely used across Australia and have delivered proven results over the years. The only thing to be kept in mind is that the suitable method of construction waterproofing is selected as per the construction type which is intended to be waterproof. The appropriate waterproofing method can protect your building from damage from water for several years.