Exploring Waterproofing Solution

The increasing cost of construction resulting from the rising prices of raw materials and labor have necessitated the implementation of the advanced waterproofing chemicals and methods in the building construction. As a solution, waterproofing dates back to centuries when there were no pucca houses. At that point of time, the water was prevented from entering into the house by use of thatch, leaves, reed, animal skins, pitched roofs and natural stones. However, with time, more advanced methods and materials were used.

Importance Of Waterproofing Solutions:

Concrete has been a popular construction material known for its cost effectiveness and versatility. But, even the concrete structures face leakage due to use of excess water, structural stresses, lime leaching, inadequate compaction, long-term drying shrinkage, crack in transition zone and thermal shrinkage. And, the best way to prevent it and increase the shelf life of the concrete is an effective and durable waterproofing system. It not only improves the durability of the structure but also lowers the maintenance costs. Moreover, one gets a sound and aesthetically pleasing foundation with increased property price.

The water damage can lead to metal corrosion, rotting of timber structures, swelling of plasterboards, electric hazards and fungal growth. Hence, waterproofing is compulsory for all below the grade concrete structures. It will include the underground structures, foundations, elevated structural slabs, plazas and terraces. The internal areas that require waterproofing are bathrooms, laundries, shower recesses, and toilets.

Types Of Water Proofing Solution And Products:

For different parts of the structure, different waterproofing products are used. The system that should be used is determined by factors like structure (roof, wall or basement), location, usability of the structure and climatic conditions. There are five types of waterproofing methods: Conventional rigid systems, crystalline system, Chemical Coating, flexible membranes, and water repellent impregnates.

The conventional systems include the box type waterproofing using solid stone slabs. Crystalline system and flexible membranes are two versatile systems of waterproofing involving the application of chemicals on the concrete surface. They form hard crystals by reacting with the soft by-products of cement hydration process. The polymer-based materials are used for the membranes used in the waterproofing. The flexible membranes are of two types in which the hot/cold applied liquids are dried. They are pasted, mechanically fastened, loose laid and torched onto the substrate such as PVC Membranes, PP Membranes, HDPE Membranes, etc.

Chemical Coatings are an older form of waterproofing for metal and masonry surfaces. Coal-tar pitch, bituminous, asphalt, cement based waterproof coatings, crystalline waterproof coatings, polyurethane elastomeric coatings, and acrylic polymer-based cementitious coatings are available in different color and shades.Water repellant impregnates are low viscosity silicones available as water and solvent based solutions. They are applied on the stone surface or front wall of buildings. They penetrate into the surface and impart water repellence to it reducing the ingress of water. Further, it increases the facade life and prevents discoloration.

Moreover, sealants are also used to prevent the passage of water in the joints. There are interior and exterior basement waterproofing systems for basements. Interior sealants help in controlling the dampness supported by the Humidifiers.

M/S. Perma Construction Aids Pvt. Ltd. Located in Mumbai (Maharashtra), the company is a well-known Manufacturer, Exporter, and Supplier of Water Based Epoxy Coatings.