There are a lot of different types of water proofing materials. Some are more effective than others, so it’s important to know what works best for your project. There are several different types of water proofing materials, including Stiff sheets, Polyurethane, Rubberised asphalt, and Injectable membranes.
Stiff sheet water proofing
Stiff sheet water proofing is a versatile water proofing solution. Its fully-bonded construction ensures high water proofing safety and installation efficiency. They are also quick to apply and do not require special expertise. A pre-applied waterproofing membrane, called Pretalk, uses a high-density polyethylene sheet to adhere to concrete. Its unique design ensures that the membrane bonds securely to the substrate, eliminating the possibility of lateral water migration.
Stiff sheet waterproofing has its advantages and disadvantages. Also, a poorly applied waterproofing membrane can tear apart even with slight movement. In addition, the coating material should be highly resistant to abrasion and to accommodate the movement of the building.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane water proofing materials are a versatile type of coating. These coatings can be self-independent or used as accessories for sheet-applied membranes. Polyurethane is a mixture of a polyol and isocyanide that combine to form a liquid coating. It is one of the most popular types of waterproofing, as it requires little supervision.
The liquid waterproofing polyurethane coating forms a continuous, elastic, and crack-bridging membrane with a high adhesion to other construction materials. Liquid polyurethane waterproofing systems are easy to apply and have a high degree of adhesion. They are ideal for rooftops and passable roofs and are easy to install. These systems are also ideal for protecting green roofs. It has a high mechanical strength and is elastic enough to cover difficult areas. However, it is important to make sure that the roof surface is clean before applying a polyurethane liquid membrane.
Polyurethanes are available in a wide variety of forms, allowing product designers to choose the type that is best for their needs. Open-cell foam is breathable, so it is more prone to absorbing water, while closed-cell foam has a cellular structure and does not allow water to pass through it.
Rubberized asphalt
The final product should be monolithic, seamless, and of uniform thickness. The material’s high adhesion properties and low water absorption rate make it an ideal waterproofing material for many applications. It is suitable for both exterior and interior applications and is a low-maintenance alternative to traditional concrete waterproofing systems.
However, it is important to follow certain precautions when applying this material as it can become very hot and dangerous to handle. Likewise, it is important to use extreme caution when applying rubberized asphalt to vertical surfaces.
Hot fluid-applied rubberized asphalt has a tendency to expand and become soft. When reheated, it will expand further, causing leaks in the building. Another downside to rubberized asphalt is its tendency to develop small discontinuities. These gaps in the membrane are usually circular and can become water-entry points.
Hot rubberized asphalt is best for intensive and extensive roofing assemblies, while cold asphalt is suitable for less intensive applications. Additionally, Although it is not as durable as other types of materials, it is extremely tough.
Injectable membranes
Injectable waterproofing membranes are an effective way to prevent leaks in both existing and new construction This resin then forms a waterproof membrane on the positive side of the wall.
These waterproofing membranes are available in a variety of forms. Some are liquid-applied, while others are preformed sheets. Regardless of the type, it’s important to use the proper thickness and application technique. If the membrane is applied incorrectly, it could result in leaks or re-emulsification. In addition, uneven film thickness can lead to tears or bulges even with minimal movement. It is also important to choose the right coating material, which is abrasive-resistant and flexible enough to accommodate the movements of the building. It’s also important to avoid weak points or thin spots, as these areas can cause excessive wear and tear.
Before installing waterproofing membranes, you need to prepare the area for the membrane. Some materials respond differently to temperature changes and weather conditions, so it’s important to consider how the structure will respond to these factors. The application process also differs for different types of membranes, so be sure to read the manufacturer’s guidelines for preparing the area.
Injectable waterproofing membranes are a cost-effective, environmentally-safe solution to prevent leaks in below-grade foundations, cellars, elevator pits, tunnels, mechanical rooms, and basements. A single solution can treat hundreds of square feet of porous surfaces.
Bituminous membranes
Bituminous membranes are a class of water proofing materials composed of three superposed layers. The first layer is composed of bitumen. The second layer contains a combination of natural or synthetic rubber and resin. The third layer consists of an elastomeric material. Generally, the layers are designed to resist penetration, and the first layer provides dimensional stability.
Despite their versatility, bituminous membranes are not a permanent solution. They do require careful application and maintenance, so proper installation is critical. The ULTRAFLEX SA 7000-X is the best-selling material in this category. It provides superior waterproofing and radon protection.
Bitumen is still found in natural deposits, but modern bituminous membranes are manufactured using petroleum refineries. The material has high tensile strength and is a flexible material. It protects buildings from water and vapor and can last up to 25 years.
Modified bitumen membranes were originally used for roofing, but are now more commonly used as waterproofing materials. Unlike asphalt, they can be applied horizontally or vertically. Modified bitumen sheets can be self-adhered, and they can withstand a wide range of temperatures. A self-adhesive bitumen membrane also doesn’t require torch application, making it the perfect choice for small, flammable spaces.
A bituminous membrane’s waterproofing properties are dependent on the continuous layer of bitumen that binds the membrane to the surface. In addition to bitumen, sheet material is often used to prevent water from flowing or rupture. Some membranes have a felt layer beneath, adding strength to the membrane and helping prevent it from flaking.
Bituminous membranes are suitable for protection of concrete and reinforced concrete roofing systems. They are usually supplied in rolls from the factory. The manufacturer provides safety instructions and training manuals to ensure proper installation of the waterproofing material. In addition, bitumen membranes can be laid with tar-based adhesives, which act as a barrier to water seepage.
