If you plan to build a new house, you must be sure to waterproof the foundation so that you don’t end up with an unfinished basement within several years.
There are numerous waterproofing systems and products on the market, so it is a bit complicated. So what do you have to choose from?
Here’s a quick outline of the most used foundation waterproofing methods to assist you decide:
- Liquid rubber foundation waterproofing membranes for the construction industry.
The elastomeric coatings created out of liquid rubber. This is the same high-quality material that automobile tires were made of.
Benefits: They’re easy to apply, fast to dry and dry cold. You can apply it yourself using a trowel, roller, or sprayer. The liquid cures to form an elastic rubber coating capable of filling current small holes , and bridge future cracks in the foundation wall once the building settles. Rubber is pliable. It also comes with a warranties for a long time, and a lot of them are green and have low content of solvents or solvent-free. It is very economicalfoundation brush supplier.
The disadvantages are that there is the possibility of inconsistency on coverage, however, the most recent products can help you identify your “right” thickness by the degree of color intensity, i.e. when applying the solution and detect lighter patches, just increase the amount of liquid. Additional preparation of the surface and curing could be required. If there are larger gaps or cracks in your structure,, you must fill them in with trowel grade cement or another material prior to applying the general coating. Additionally, some liquid membranes need longer curing time for the concrete prior to when they can be used to ensure the proper bonding.
- Hot-applied Liquid Rubber Foundation waterproofing product:
It is a rubberized asphalt mixture that is a tough polylith waterproofing membrane. It can also be applied to roofing surfaces.
Benefits: It adheres to almost any surface. It is ideal for surfaces with rough edges. Monolithic, without seams, watertight, prevents the movement of water and accumulation of moisture. It provides strong protection due to the manner in which it needs to be used.
Advantages: The surface needs to be primed using primer before. It is more expensive because the product must be applied in layers . Basically, you apply the first layer of liquid rubber that is hot then apply a firm pressure on the reinforced fabric sheet onto the hot layer, and then apply the second coating of the hot rubber for waterproofing. In addition, depending upon the building codes you might need apply two or three of these sheets. Due to this, the elasticity is not as high. Because it’s hot, it is essential to be cautious – the best option solution is to get it done by a licensed professional.
- Sheet membranes
Most commonly, they are self-adhering membranes of rubberized asphalt comprised of asphalt that has been that is laminated to an impervious polyethylene film.
Advantages: The main benefit is their consistency in thickness since these have been “pre-made” to a required standard. Strong and durable, they are resisting hydrostatic stress. Overcome even the biggest holes or areas that are damaged.
They can be placed on metal, concrete, or wood surfaces.
The disadvantages are that they are more difficult to put on due to their extremely large “stickiness”, also the cost of in-place application is higher. It requires at minimum two persons to be able to apply correctly.
It requires a lot of work, which means an additional cost. If there are any irregularities on the surface you wish to apply a sheet of paper on, they must be smoothed with a coats to ensure that the surface is even. Also, you’ll need to be aware of lap joints, joint treatment corners, corner penetration, patching, priming, etc. Once the piece is damaged, it will not be able to be put to be re-usable.
- Cementitious Waterproofing
It is a flexible, cement-based waterproofing membrane. It could comprise of Portland cement, sand acrylic mixture, plasticizer, and other active waterproofing chemicals that increase its durability and efficiency.
Benefits: Very easy to use. Mix the powder and water in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations and apply using a trowel or brush. It is easily accessible, available through suppliers of masonry materials or from specialized dealers. Paintable. Also available in a variety of shades. In the majority of cases, one coat is enough, but some areas may require the mesh for reinforcement. It is low cost. Weather and corrosion resistant. The application can be done either a negative or positive side of waterproofing.
The disadvantages are that it is not flexible It is impossible to stretch cement and when the structure is settling down, there are the potential for cracks that could occur in the future. Before applying the concrete, the surface needs to be free of gaps, protrusions and cracks paints, oils water repellents, as well as any other foreign substance which could cause an adhesive. Holes should be filled with block filler.
- Bentonite Waterproofing
is a below grade bentonite foundation waterproofing product made in sodium bentonite that is sandwiched between two layers of non-woven and woven puncture-resistant polypropylene fabric. It is available as clay sheet and panels.
Benefits: It can absorb a huge amount of water. As it absorbs the clay’s water it expands and expands into cracks and voids, where it remains for a long time as a barrier to water. It is flexible and resists most chemicals. Non-toxic, non-polluting. No odors. The product can be used even in the cold winter months.
The disadvantages are that due to the way clay functions, the seal will not be formed until the foundation has been backfilled and the water has reached the bentonite substance and you are unable to determine the quality that the seal is solid.
Summary:
As you can see, a lot depends on your circumstances, requirements, needs and the things you are comfortable with. The best option is to speak with a professional and check the manufacturer’s requirements particularly for the curing period, temperature restrictions as well as additional labor requirements. It’s true that waterproofing of the foundation may appear expensive at first glance, but keep in mind that it’s a long-term solution that, if done correctly can save you plenty of time, stress and even money soon, so please do not skimp on it.