Waterproofing concrete is the process of creating a barrier between the concrete and external elements to protect the concrete from damage.
Concrete is basically a mixture of sand, cement, gravel and water. Cement, just by itself is not waterproof. When you add water to it for curing it will absorb the water and hence will lose some of its strength. Waterproofing concrete or cement can be done during the construction phase as well as later on.
In this article we will look at some of the popular options that are used for waterproofing concrete. The protective layer can be applied on both sides of the structure (wherever there is a possibility of water seeping through). The most important areas where waterproofing should be done in your home are: ceiling, walls, roofs, tanks, basements and floor. Water damage due to leaking in any part of your home can cause a big loss; so it’s better to waterproof all these parts even before they start showing signs of wear and tear.
6 Popular Options For Waterproofing Concrete:
Liquid Applied Membranes: Liquid membranes are either solvent based or water based liquid latex/rubber products that adhere to the surface and form a seamless flexible membrane. It can be sprayed directly or t
In the past, waterproofing concrete was an afterthought. Architects and engineers designed the concrete structures, and then someone else applied a membrane to the outside to waterproof it. Now, with the availability of integral waterproofing admixtures that can be added to concrete mixtures at the ready-mix plant or on-site, waterproofing can be built into concrete from the start.
There are many options available for waterproofing concrete. The decision on which one is best for your particular project depends on several different factors. Your budget and timeline are probably your first consideration. Then you need to identify all potential sources of water penetration and determine where you need to apply the waterproofing measures.
Finally, you will want to think about how much maintenance and repair might be needed over time to keep your project in good shape. Let’s look at some of your options.
Concrete is a porous material which means it absorbs water. If a concrete surface is left unprotected, the water can cause damage to the rebar (the steel bars inside the concrete) as well as wash away aggregate in the concrete. Water absorption can also cause efflorescence or staining. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to waterproof concrete surfaces.
Waterproofing paints – These paints go directly onto the surface of the concrete and create a waterproof seal. This seal helps prevent water from seeping into the concrete and causing damage. Concrete coatings – These specialized paints go on top of the existing paint to create a layer that is more resistant to water absorption. Epoxy coatings – Like concrete coatings, epoxy coatings go on top of existing paint and sealants to provide an extra layer of waterproofing. Sealing grouts – Grout sealers are used in areas where there are gaps between tiles. They fill those gaps so that water cannot get through them and absorb into the concrete underneath. Crystalline additives – These additives are mixed into the concrete itself when pouring new foundations or floors to waterproof them from within. Sealants – These chemicals come in both liquid and sheet form that can be applied over existing surfaces to waterproof them.
Concrete is a porous material which means that water can easily seep through its surface. This is why cement based structures are generally waterproofed. There are a variety of materials that may be used for this purpose such as epoxy, polyurethane, or acrylics. Other products may be added to the concrete itself during mixing to prevent water from passing through the concrete mix. The waterproofing compound may be applied to the surface of the concrete after it has been poured and cured. The proper product or method of application depends on the type of structure being waterproofed and where it will be located.
Concrete is a porous material which means that water can easily seep through its surface. This is why cement based structures are generally waterproofed. There are a variety of materials that may be used for this purpose such as epoxy, polyurethane, or acrylics. Other products may be added to the concrete itself during mixing to prevent water from passing through the concrete mix. The waterproofing compound may be applied to the surface of the concrete after it has been poured and cured. The proper product or method of application depends on the type of structure being waterproofed and where it will be located.
Waterproofing concrete is an important step in ensuring that the structure is protected from deterioration. There are several products available for waterproofing concrete. These include:
Pore sealers: They are used to seal the pores and capillaries of concrete. They are either clear or opaque in nature. These products have low solids content and have a poor covering capacity.
Crystalline waterproofing: When crystalline waterproofing compounds come into contact with water, they grow through the capillaries and pores of the concrete to form a non-soluble crystalline formation within the pores. This effectively seals off the pores and makes the concrete waterproof.
Cementitious coatings: These coatings are applied on the surface of concrete to make it waterproof. They are usually two-component systems, one being Portland cement and sand mixture, while the other is a liquid latex polymer modifier. These coatings are usually applied using a brush or trowel.
Bituminous coatings: The base material used in bituminous coatings is asphalt, which can be refined or unrefined. Bituminous coatings are usually available as emulsions, which contain water, mineral fillers and emulsifying agents. They also come as cold processed materials
Waterproofing concrete is a common approach to prevent water from penetrating concrete structures. There are several methods to achieve this, but the most popular are the following:
1. Integral Waterproofing Admixtures
2. Surface Applied Membrane Waterproofing
3. Coatings
4. Penetrating Sealers
5. Crystalline Penetrating Sealers
6. Crystalline Slurry Coats
Concrete is one of the most popular construction materials used in many of the residential and commercial buildings. It is a porous material, so it absorbs water easily. In order to prevent water absorption by concrete, waterproofing is very essential. It provides many benefits such as:
1. Fire Resistance
2. Energy Efficiency
3. Durability
4. Maintenance Free
5. Strength etc.,