What are Waterproofing Membranes, and how do they work?

Water is ever-present in our world. While vital for survival, it is also one of the most destructive forces on the planet. Water can be relentless and wear down any unprotected structures.

From 2018-2021, 24% of all home insurance claims in Australia were related to water damage. This makes waterproofing membranes crucial in construction, as they provide essential protection against this kind of damage. When it comes to waterproofing, Bayset has your back. Let’s explore the different types of waterproofing membranes, their applications, and how they function to safeguard buildings from water ingress.

What Are Waterproofing Membranes?

Waterproofing membranes are layers of watertight material applied to surfaces to prevent water penetration. They play a vital role in preserving the structural integrity of buildings by preventing moisture ingress, which can lead to deterioration and costly repairs.

Waterproofing membranes can be made from various materials, each offering unique benefits:

• SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber: Provides long-lasting protection against water ingress, thus preventing structural damage and ensuring the longevity of buildings.
• Acrylics: Environmentally friendly, UV stable, and easy to apply.
• Polyurethanes: Highly effective in bridging cracks and accommodating structural movements, making it ideal for areas subjected to temperature fluctuations or mechanical stresses.
• Bitumen: Known for its durability and resistance to environmental stress.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC membranes have high strength, offer better elasticity and are resistant to a variety of chemicals.
• TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin): Offer strength and durability, especially at the seams. TPO would be considered a strong roofing product because of its ability to resist tears, punctures, dirt and mould build-up.

Types of Waterproofing Membranes

 There are many types of waterproofing membranes. Let’s focus on three types.

• Liquid Applied Membranes
  These coatings form a seamless, watertight barrier when dried. They are ideal for irregular surfaces such as balconies, decks, wet areas, and around pipes and offer flexibility in application.
• Cementitious Waterproofing
  This involves applying a cement-based compound that forms a rigid, waterproof layer. It is popular for water tanks, basements, and other areas requiring robust protection.
• Sheet Membrane Waterproofing
  This method involves applying pre-formed sheets to surfaces. These membranes are known for their consistency and ease of application, commonly used in foundations, roofs, and below-grade applications.

How Waterproofing Membranes Work

Waterproofing membranes function by creating a physical barrier that prevents water molecules and other hazards from reaching the underlying layer. A successful waterproofing membrane is:

• Hard to break and tear
• Protects against UV (important for outdoor use)
• Hydrostatic pressure resistant
• Capable of withstanding a variety of environmental conditions

Correct application is crucial for the effectiveness of waterproofing membranes. This involves surface preparation, correct installation, and ensuring all seams and joints are securely sealed.

Applications of Waterproofing Membranes

Now that we understand a little more about waterproofing membranes, let’s explore the types of projects where one might apply them:

• Residential Buildings
  Waterproofing membranes are essential in residential buildings, especially in moisture-prone areas like basements, bathrooms, balconies and roofs. They help prevent water-related issues such as mould growth and structural damage.
• Commercial and Industrial Buildings
  In these settings, waterproofing membranes protect critical infrastructure from water damage, ensuring the longevity and functionality of the building.
• Infrastructure Projects
  Waterproofing membranes are vital in infrastructure projects like bridges, tunnels, and dams, protecting against water ingress and enhancing the structure’s durability.

Benefits of Using Waterproofing Membranes

The primary benefit of using waterproofing membranes is the added longevity and durability they provide to a structure. Thoroughly applied waterproofing significantly increases the lifespan of structures by protecting them from water damage and related issues.

This leads us to another important benefit: cost-effectiveness. Using waterproofing membranes reduces the need for frequent maintenance and repairs, providing long-term cost savings.

Choosing the Right Waterproofing Membrane

Don’t just slap down any membrane when it’s time to waterproof your project. Several factors can help optimise a successful outcome. When selecting a waterproofing membrane, consider factors such as specific environmental conditions, substrate type, and expected lifespan.

If you find yourself feeling a bit lost or unsure, never hesitate to seek professional advice. Consulting with experts in waterproofing membranes is highly recommended to ensure that the chosen solution meets your project’s specific requirements.

Bayset’s Waterproofing Solutions

If you need waterproofing products and advice, you’ve come to the right place. Bayset provides a wide range of waterproofing products and systems designed to meet every possible waterproofing need. But we’re not content to simply sell products; Bayset offers comprehensive technical support, training and advice on your project.

We will not only bring the products you need out to your site location but also offer specifications and inspections as requested. We want your project to be successful! If you’re looking for a little more hands-on training, check out our BAYTEC Events Calendar and sign up for our training sessions. Our systems page also offers many solutions, all downloadable so you can save them on your personal device.

Discover Bayset’s comprehensive range of waterproofing products designed to meet various needs. Whether you’re working on a residential, commercial, or infrastructure project, Bayset offers solutions that ensure quality and durability.