There are different types of membrane waterproofing that are ideal for the various concrete structures. These structures include foundations, bridges, concrete wall, roofs, swimming pools, water barriers, and water tanks. Waterproofing Singapore offers different types of membrane waterproofing system which include bituminous membrane, liquid waterproofing, elastomeric waterproofing, and cementitious waterproofing, among other types.
Bitumen membrane is modified by mixing bitumen with elastomeric and plastomeric polymers. The mixing of the polymer with bitumen to increase durability and the ability of the membrane to withstand tear and wear. The added polymer is laminated on both sides of the bitumen membrane before it is installed on the concrete surface. The bitumen membrane is suitable for underground surfaces, terraces, wet floors, and supporting walls. Hot asphalt and torch are used to enhance the application of this membrane.
Types of bitumen waterproofing membrane include:
- Bitumen membranes with slate.
- Bitumen membranes without a slate.
- Bituminous shingles.
- Bitumen primers and pastes.
- Bitumen sealants and tapes.
Advantages of Bitumen Waterproof
Asphalt is one of the best waterproofing material that has been used to insulate surfaces against water and moisture content. It can withstand building movements and UV rays. The durability of a roof or a concrete surface is guaranteed through proper installation of the bitumen membrane.
Additional products like SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) are continuously used to increase the strength of the membrane. SBS provides a flexible rubber that improves the resistance and flexibility of the roofing asphalt. The final product usually has several advantages.
It is easy and flexible to apply: It can be applied to buildings that are already occupied like hospitals, schools, and residential houses. The flames released as the torch burns are not hazardous to the environment.
No odor: The bitumen membrane is odorless hence suitable for many construction projects.
Hot Asphalt: This is easy and economical to apply on large areas. It is best suitable for large building projects.
Easy Maintenance: Unlike other types of waterproofing membrane, bitumen membrane is easy to maintain. It has one layer that has a sticky substance on one side and a waterproof substance on the other side. It reduces installation error because there is no multiple layer installation.
SBS modified bitumen is more long lasting: SBS reduces the membrane’s fatigue that is common with bitumen. It also resistant to cold and durable for many years. Bitumen works best when mixed with other polymers.
Liquid membranes are applied on surfaces like a pant. Once it cures, it forms an elastic membrane with powerful capabilities of withstanding abrasion. This type of membrane is composed of various waterproofing elements like silicone, polyurethanes, cement, resins, and acrylic copolymers.
Why you should Consider Liquid Membrane
Can withstand abrasion: liquid membrane can be applied to surfaces that are accessible to people because it has a high resistance to human traffic.
It has high levels of protection: The coat that forms after the membrane has cured provides a long lasting solution to the surface. It will protect your roof or foundation from mechanical damages.
High level of compatibility: The liquid membrane can be mixed with more than one substance to strengthen the membrane. The materials added to increase resistance and durability.
Breathability: The membrane is permeable to release moisture and water content that has been trapped. This is an important characteristic of the waterproofing membrane. If the trapped water and moisture are not released into the environment, it can cause negative effects in the building.
Flexibility in the application process: It does not require a flat surface to be installed. The liquid can reach on to any joint on the surface. Since it is sprayed like paint, it can reach areas that the bitumen membrane cannot reach.
It has a high level of elasticity: Due to the sunlight exposure, concrete surfaces expand. The liquid membrane expands with the concrete walls to prevent cracks and water from reaching the surface.
There are two common types of liquid membrane waterproofing:
- Polyurethane liquid waterproofing membrane.
- Liquid rubber membrane.
- Elastomeric Waterproofing
Elastomeric waterproofing is relatively expensive than the normal paints because of its ability to protect surfaces from water invasion. It works well for the exterior finishing because it is a significant weather barrier. Unlike other paints, elastomeric provides a tough and durable membrane. The membrane is elastic and flexible making it ideal for crack repairs.
Advantages of Elastomeric
It forms a waterproof membrane: Elastomeric paint is one of the best paints that have the ability to protect your house from water and moisture attack. By using this paint, you will be assured that your house is safe from water leakages and accumulation.
It forms a thick coat: It is thicker than the traditional paints. This extra thickness makes it ideal for exterior protection of wall surfaces.
It is flexible: It can stretch to fill in cracks on the walls. Also, it can expand and contract according to climatic conditions.
It is durable: Compared to other conventional paints, it can last up to 10 years. The other paints can last up to 2 years.
The cementitious membrane consists of sand, dry cement, and liquid latex. These products are usually mixed at the site during construction. The mixture forms a cementitious fluid that is applied to the surfaces by use of a brush or a roller. The liquid latex is significant in this membrane because it provides the flexibility and waterproofing aspect of the final product. The liquid latex mix composition is determined by the level of flexibility required.
Advantages
- It is long lasting and has a proven record of its usage over the past years.
- It is suitable for any kind of water pressure, either positive or negative water pressures.
- It does not need heavy duty machinery to be installed.
- The materials used in the mixture are environmentally friendly.
- It has good elasticity level.
Conclusion
These waterproofing membrane types can either be installed on the interior, exterior or at the blindside regions. The choice of location depends on the building structure and the need for waterproofing membrane. Out team at Waterproofing Singapore are well equipped with the necessary skills to recommend the best place for installing waterproofing system, and the best membrane to install.
Contact us today to find out more!
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License Number: HB-09-5474D