Waterproofing Membranes

About Waterproofing Membranes

Moisture-repellent membranes can be used in various parts of any home or building for foundation, basement, and roof waterproofing to prevent costly damage and hazardous destruction to its structure.  

Advantages

Using a liquid waterproofing membrane or a waterproofing sheet on areas vulnerable to liquid damage will keep the structure of any home or building safe by creating a solid barrier against leakage. 

Protection from Leaks 

Tanking and waterproofing are the most efficient ways to protect the walls in damp rooms, commonly in basements, to prevent leakage. Basement waterproofing keeps moisture out of the room to ward off the growth of mould or mildew. 

A liquid waterproofing membrane or waterproofing sheet applied to any room will protect the walls and furniture from any leak damage because of the strong seal created by the material. 

Mould

Leakage and excess moisture promote the growth of mildew and mould. Mould growth can damage furniture and carpeting, while moisture can stain the ceiling and walls as it weakens the structure. Roof waterproofing can limit the building's exposure to outside moisture. 

Safety 

A lack of protection from water damage can compromise the integrity of a structure, leaving it unsafe to live in or operate from. 

Decking membranes may often be forgotten but are an essential element for outside safety. 

Commercial 

Waterproofing sealants protect the spaces in newly constructed buildings most vulnerable to leakage. Creating a barrier against moisture prevents commercial buildings from damage due to a lack of foundation waterproofing or roof waterproofing. 

Residential 

Waterproofing tapes help with foundation waterproofing around the house. Corners and joints can be protected with a permanently flexible material that does not shrink. 

Roof waterproofing is essential for keeping the structure of the home safe from outside elements. 

Application

Regardless of the location or size of the building or room, a moisture repellent membrane or sheet is essential for protecting its structure. 

Shower

A shower waterproofing membrane should be used for the shower's interior to create a moisture barrier. The application requires a roller or brush to apply a thin, even amount to the entire surface. 

Bathroom

Apply a suitable tanking membrane or bathroom waterproofing membrane before tiling the floor, shower, or other wet areas in the room. Level the walls and floor before applying the membrane to the surfaces.

Undertile 

Tiles are not resistant to moisture damage, making an under tile waterproofing membrane essential. Liquid sealant needs to be applied the same way as any bathroom surface before setting the tiles on top of the sealant. 

Deck 

A decking membrane must be deck-approved before starting the application process. First, clean the deck sand, then apply the liquid with a brush or roller similar to any other surface. The decking membrane will secure the structure and protect it from moisture damage. 

Types

Liquid

This liquid material is sprayed or brushed onto the surface. When the liquid is sprayed, it forms a monolithic membrane without overlap, seams, or welds.

Sheet 

These come as a roll that is applied by unrolling it onto a firm surface. This can be adhered to or installed around the foundation to make it impenetrable.

Materials 

Two of the most used materials offered at ArchiPro include: 

Polyurethane

This material is composed of a fibre-enhanced water-based polyurethane membrane that can be applied as a base for various surfaces, including concrete beds, screeds, and tiles. The adhesion properties are optimal for overbuilding materials, including concrete, masonry, and renders.

TPO

This is a flexible waterproofing sheet designed to protect any concrete structure. TPO can be built as a single-layer compartment system to meet the demands of the active control system. It's fully bonded and optimal for basement waterproofing.

Installation

Factors to consider when applying a membrane:

• Materials used for coating need to be abrasive resistant and account for structural movement. Thin or loose bonding will result in mechanical abrasion or cause ruptures or blisters.
• Uneven film thickness will disturb movement. Thick coatings will restrict movement, and thin layers will tear from the slightest touch.
• Coating manufacturers require a different range of minimum dry film thickness depending on the surface and material used.

Care and Maintenance 

Foundation waterproofing and the use of other moisture repellent membranes require routine care and maintenance to ensure it still protects the structures it is lining.

The elongation is the most critical element in the effectiveness of the sealant. Elongation allows the material to stretch with the movement of the surface over time. A considerable force can tear sealant with a high elongation percentage because of the pressure applied to one spot. 

Too little breathability can cause the seal to trap water inside the building by repelling it away from the crevices. Moisture should not be able to pass through the material but should allow vapour to leave the room. Breathability is essential for proper roof waterproofing. 

The material needs to withstand the force of everyday wear and tear. Rough or sharp objects can puncture the seal, causing leaks on the property. 

Contact the supplier to purchase any waterproofing membrane required to protect the structural integrity of any building or home. 

If you need assistance to find the right waterproofing membranes for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.