Terrace waterproofing involves the application of sealants, coatings or membranes to a terrace in order to stop water seepage and prevent further damage to its foundations while creating an inviting and safe space for people to use.
Before installing any terrace treatment, it is imperative that the concrete substrate is in good condition. Once this step has been taken, treatments can begin.
Polyurethane Liquid Membrane
PU liquid membranes are extremely versatile and reliable solutions, offering exceptional performance across a range of applications such as waterproofing terraces, roofs, balconies or other concrete surfaces. Installing them easily provides long-term solutions.
A PU waterproofing membrane can be applied using roller, brush or airless spray. For more information on its application please read its technical data sheet (TDS). It’s important to consider which application your chosen coating would best serve; some are ideal for roofing waterproofing while others might work better for walls or indoor surfaces.
Polyurethane waterproofing membranes consist of two components – polyol and isocyanide – combined in accordance with their specified design ratio to form an odorless, non-toxic liquid membrane which protects from water intrusion as well as other weathering conditions. They offer highly resilient waterproof protection without being toxic.
In order to ensure maximum performance from your PU waterproofing membrane installation, make sure it is installed as directed. This includes surface preparation, application of membrane and reinforcement as specified by manufacturer; take into account any special considerations required by your project like foot traffic or environmental factors; additionally take steps necessary to meet safety guidelines from manufacturer as directed by installation guidelines.
Polyacrylic Chemical Coating
This coating system protects against water infiltration by creating an impenetrable barrier against it, creating a strong and durable barrier suitable for harsh environmental conditions. Furthermore, this type of coating may also include puncture-resistant or trafficable wear layers for added protection.
Benefits of epoxy include fast cure times, ease of application and dimensional stability. Furthermore, its exceptional resistance to corrosion, abrasion and freeze-thaw cycles makes it suitable for balconies and terraces.
MARISEAL is a premium liquid polyurethane waterproofing system with extensive certifications and guaranteed long-term results, ideal for new construction as well as repairs or renewal work, repairs to EPDM membranes or PVC coatings and upgrading old bitumen felts or PVC coatings.
Rubber waterproofing membranes are an economical and resilient waterproofing option, ideal for protecting metal roofs and bridges, flat or sloped terraces and water tanks from rainwater infiltration. Their adaptable construction withstands extreme temperatures, chemicals and UV radiation exposure – making them suitable solutions.
PUMA technology, a hybrid of polyurethane and methyl methacrylate, was used to formulate this coating. This low-VOC formula uses elastomeric ingredients combined to form an adaptive and resilient protective barrier. Furthermore, its use reduces volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions thus making the product more environmentally-friendly; additionally it is non-toxic and odourless.
Polymer Coating
Though a variety of polymeric solutions exist to protect concrete substrates, each should be tailored specifically to its environment and service demands. Products must be capable of withstanding moisture-filled and acidic environments without suffering damage and be compatible with other construction-relevant materials for easy installation.
Bituminous waterproofing is another great choice for terrace waterproof coating, consisting of an amalgam of elastomeric bitumen, aluminum pigments, mineral fillers, volatile solvents, and fibers. It provides excellent water repellency against ponding water accumulation on steel pipelines and iron structures as well as steel/concrete cladding panels and drinking water tanks – plus more!
Before applying this product, ensure the surface is free from dirt and debris by using wire brushing or jet washing techniques to clear away contaminants from the surface. Once clean and dry, polymer waterproofing should be applied using a brush application method and left to cure for several days before adding another coat of protection.
Large terrace structures should add fiber net after applying their initial waterproofing coatings in order to increase strength and reinforcement of their structure. Fiber net resembles mosquito net, sandwiching two polymer waterproofing coatings between its thin threads.
Fiber Net
This new waterproofing technique is particularly effective for large terrace structures. The technique uses fiber net sandwiched between two polymer coating layers as reinforcement, as well as resistance against ponding water, increasing strength while remaining resistant against ponding water accumulation – making it suitable for terraces with significant foot traffic.
Bituminous coating waterproofing is another popular waterproofing choice, offering protection from moisture and water leakage on surfaces. The liquid membrane can be applied sprayed, trowelled or rollered onto substrates. Available in various polymer grades and thicknesses to withstand various temperature ranges and have crack bridging properties for varied substrates, bituminous waterproofing has quickly become one of the go-to solutions when waterproofing surfaces.
This waterproofing method stands out as being flexible, adapting easily to building movements and accommodating flat terraces perfectly. Not only will this stop leakage of water into the concrete surface but it can also lower maintenance costs significantly!
One key point to keep in mind when waterproofing a building project is that waterproofing should take place prior to tiling. Otherwise, the waterproof coating could peel away with the tiles causing water leakage issues later. Therefore, professional waterproofing contractors are essential in order to successfully complete your building project.
