5 Types of Waterproofing in Construction

Waterproofing buildings is the method of forming a barrier over surfaces of foundations, roofs, walls and other structural members of buildings to prevent water penetrations through these surfaces. In summary, building surfaces are made water-resistant and waterproof.

Research has shown that waterproofing only accounts for 1% of a building’s construction costs but when ignored, it can be responsible for almost 90% of the damage. However, it is also important to remember that not all waterproofing chemicals are suitable for all purposes. Therefore, you need to make sure that you get the right types of waterproofing materials for your unique needs. To help you in the selection process, below are the 5 types of waterproofing in construction:

  1. Cementitious WaterproofingCementitious waterproofing products are considered as the easiest waterproofing materials to use. These are readily available from suppliers of masonry products like MCT UAE, and they’re easy to mix and apply. Cementitious waterproofing materials are breathable, seamless coatings used to provide positive and negative side waterproofing protection on concrete and masonry surfaces. One of the most popular cementitious waterproofing from MCT is the Corroprufe FCW. It is a two-component, cementitious coating comprising pre-weighed polymer modified powder & liquid components. It is commonly used to waterproof concrete in internal or external applications as potable & storm water tanks, reservoirs, swimming pools and wet areas to kitchens, showers & bathrooms below screed & tile finishes.
  2. Bituminous Coating waterproofing – Bituminous coating is also known as asphalt coating. It is a type of coating used for waterproofing and flexible protective coat in accordance with its formulation and polymerization grade. The most common applications of bituminous waterproofing include areas that are beneath screed wet.
  3. Bituminous Membrane Waterproofing Method Construction chemicals companies in UAE say that bituminous membrane waterproofing is a popular method used for low-sloped roofs due to their proven performance. Bituminous waterproofing membranes have a torch on the membrane and self-adhesive waterproofing membrane.
  4. Polyurethane Membrane Waterproofing – Polyurethane liquid membrane method of waterproofing is typically used for the flat roof area and exposed to weathering. This kind of waterproofing material is very sensitive to moisture content present. Therefore, before application, it is vital to be extra careful in evaluating the moisture content of the concrete slab, otherwise peeling or de-bonding of membranes may happen after some time.
  5. Liquid Waterproofing Membrane Method – Liquid membrane is a thin coating which consists of usually a primer coat and two coats of topcoats which are applied by spray, roller, or trowel. It offers more flexibility than the cementitious types of waterproofing.

At the end of the day, there are many unique types of waterproofing materials in the market. Some are more effective than others. With this in mind, it is important to know that not all of them are equal. Therefore, you must take some time to find out which one is going to work best for your individualistic project requirements.

If you are looking for a specific waterproofing product, MCT UAE offers a range of Corrotech cementitious waterproofing chemicals and other types of waterproofing for your specific project.  Get in touch with MCT UAE today at +971 4 811 21 00 or visit their website at https://www.mctuae.com/