Liquid waterproofing membrane is a type of waterproofing material that is available in liquid form. It can be applied to concrete surfaces using different methods, such as spraying, brushing, or rolling. Once applied, the liquid membrane forms a thick layer that is free from any joints or seams. This creates a continuous barrier between the concrete surface and the surrounding air, preventing water from seeping through and causing damage.
The liquid waterproofing membrane is an effective solution for protecting concrete surfaces from water damage. It is commonly used in areas that are prone to water exposure, such as roofs, balconies, terraces, and foundations. Its liquid form allows it to be easily applied to different types of surfaces, including irregular shapes and corners, ensuring complete coverage and protection.
Applying a liquid waterproofing membrane requires careful preparation and application to ensure optimal results. The surface must be clean, dry, and free from any debris or contaminants before the membrane is applied. Proper application techniques are also essential to ensure the membrane adheres properly and creates a strong, durable seal. With the right preparation and application, a liquid waterproofing membrane can provide long-lasting protection for concrete surfaces.
Benefits of Liquid Waterproofing Membrane over other conventional methods
One of the key advantages of this process is its simplicity in application. The joint-free nature of the process is particularly noteworthy, as it greatly minimizes the risk of water seepage. This sets it apart from other waterproofing methods such as roll sheet WPM. Additionally, the process allows contractors to cover a larger area in a single day, and they can easily overlap the layers with a spray liquid waterproofing membrane the following day. This makes the process efficient and time-saving.
When installing a membrane, it is crucial to ensure that the membrane formed has the proper thickness. If the membrane is too thin, it can easily break down, compromising its effectiveness. Both the installer and the engineer in charge should exercise great care during the installation process to avoid creating a membrane that is too thin. Ensuring the appropriate thickness of the membrane is a critical precaution to prevent potential issues down the line.
Features of Liquid Applied Waterproofing Membrane
Liquid applied systems featuring coatings offer several advantages such as elongation properties, durability, flexibility, abrasion and chemical resistance. These features make them highly suitable for use in waterproofing. The liquid waterproofing membrane is designed to provide optimal performance and longevity. This makes it a highly efficient method of waterproofing which saves time and effort. Unlike other methods, it does not require a shutdown of other operations. When applied in the morning, it dries and becomes strong by the afternoon.
One of the main benefits of using liquid waterproofing membrane is the cost savings it provides. Since it is easy to apply, it requires less labor and gives maximum quality results. Moreover, it has a long-lasting effect and provides better performance compared to sheets and other membranes that tend to degrade over time.
When applied over a concrete surface, liquid waterproofing membrane fills the cracks and crevices of the concrete, creating a protective vapor barrier system. It can penetrate into the concrete up to a depth of 20 mm, providing a water-tight seal that increases the strength of the concrete. This makes it highly effective for use in concrete waterproofing applications.
Overall, liquid applied waterproofing is an efficient and reliable solution for all kinds of waterproofing needs. It provides enhanced durability, flexibility, abrasion and chemical resistance properties that make it an excellent choice for a range of applications. Whether used for concrete surfaces or other materials, it provides long-lasting protection against moisture and water damage.
Applications of Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
Waterproofing membrane is commonly applied on exterior walls in countries like the US and UK. It comes in various colors to match the wall’s color, making it aesthetically pleasing. A typical coverage of 5 gallons of waterproofing membrane can be used for approximately 325 square meters of concrete surface. The application process involves applying one coat, allowing it to dry, and then applying a second coat for optimal effectiveness.
Liquid waterproofing membranes can be effectively applied on concrete bridges, with an application rate of up to 800 square meters per hour. Concrete bridges are prone to cracks caused by expansion and shrinkage due to temperature changes, leading to water seepage. However, the UV absorption properties of liquid waterproofing membranes can prevent damage to the concrete in such conditions. These membranes can also be applied on metal deck steel bridges that have space-age joint systems, effectively preventing seepage from the joints. This application can significantly increase the longevity of the bridge, especially when it needs to be rebuilt after 10-15 years.
The liquid waterproofing membrane serves a dual purpose by not only preventing cracks, but also safeguarding against corrosion of inner materials such as steel bars and joints. It effectively seals cracks up to 1.3 mm in width and has the ability to withstand expansion up to 0.4 mm. Additionally, the bridge can be made ready for traffic in less than 6 hours after application of the membrane.
Surface preparation for Applying Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
To ensure that a surface is effectively waterproofed, it is essential that the area is free from any dirt or debris. Additionally, the surface must be completely dry and clean in order to prevent any interference with the waterproofing process. Therefore, it is important for the contractor to take necessary measures to prepare the surface prior to the application of waterproofing material.
One crucial aspect of surface preparation involves ensuring that there are no loose patches on the surface. Loose patches can significantly compromise the effectiveness of the waterproofing material and may even result in the need for costly repairs. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the contractor to thoroughly inspect the surface and address any areas that require attention before proceeding with the waterproofing application.
In summary, the success of a waterproofing project depends on proper surface preparation. This entails clearing the area of dirt and debris, ensuring that the surface is completely dry and clean, and addressing any loose patches on the surface before applying the waterproofing material. By taking the time to prepare the surface correctly, the contractor can ensure that the waterproofing material will perform as intended and provide long-lasting protection.
Curing of Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
The timely watering of the applied membrane is of utmost importance, especially when it has reached the touch-dry stage. It is mandatory to adhere to the standard specifications, which require the membrane to be cured by water within a few days after its application.
Low Maintenance
The service provided by this alternative method requires minimal maintenance and has a long lifespan. In fact, it is designed to last a lifetime, surpassing other conventional methods. For example, if the bridge has a projected lifespan of 200 years, the waterproofing work done using this alternative method is also expected to last for the same duration. This not only eliminates the need for frequent repairs and replacements but also saves costs associated with fillers, sealers, and other temporary solutions commonly used in conventional methods to fix cracks. By providing a durable and long-lasting solution, this alternative method proves to be more cost-effective in the long run.