What is Cementitious Waterproofing?
When you look for resources online with a question about buildings or moisture problems, you might come across search results, such as waterproofing or cementitious waterproofing.
Cementitious waterproofing applications are often found in bridges, dams, marine cargo ports & docks, parking structures, river channels, railway & subway systems, sewage treatment plans, tunnels, and water treatment plans.
In this article, we’ll learn more about cementitious waterproofing and its benefits.
Cementitious Waterproofing
It is a method used to protect commercial and residential properties against water incursion and moisture problems. Moreover, installing cementitious waterproofing systems helps strengthen the foundation of the building or house, and reduce its energy costs.
Cementitious waterproofing systems are available in four types, namely acrylic-modified, chemical additive, crystalline, and metallic.
Acrylic-modified
This system is widely used for the protection of concrete structures, water tightness works, waterproofing of construction materials, and more. It contains acrylic emulsions, which are responsible for improving its waterproofing properties. The benefits of acrylic-modified cementitious waterproofing are good adhesion to surfaces, seamless, non-toxic, and excellent waterproof capabilities.
Chemical additive.
This type of waterproofing is commonly used in concrete and masonry substrates. It consists of organic & inorganic chemicals and silicate derivatives, which help prevent water incursion.
Crystalline.
This technology involves the use of crystals to help prevent water transmission through the structure and achieve watertight concrete structures. It is recommended to use in water reservoirs, concrete and masonry, subway tunnels, concrete and block foundations, underground vaults, and elevator pits.
Metallic.
As its name suggests, it is a mixture of cement and sand and incorporates finely graded iron particles. The latter oxidizes with the addition of water, and such oxidization causes the expansion of the waterproofing membrane. And as a result, it effectively seals the surface and prevents water penetration.
Benefits of Cementitious Waterproofing
Easy to use.
What’s interesting about cementitious waterproofing products is that they are easy to use. Plus, they are readily available in the market. They are likewise easy to mix and apply without any hassle. And if you decide to choose an acrylic-modified cementitious waterproofing system, expect to have a more durable and solid coating.
Resist mould and prevent water infiltration damage.
These are primarily the benefits of using waterproofing products. It prevents moulds from growing in your property; thus, minimizing the risks of moisture and mould problems. At the same time, it keeps water from leaking or infiltrating your property. This can save you repair expenses.
Additional benefits.
Other benefits of using cementitious waterproofing are the following: decrease of water absorption, prevention of crack formation, an increase of the lifespan of solid construction, prevention of dampness in the property, prevention of seepages from the walls, reduction of building maintenance costs, increase of property value, establishment of a clear living workspace, and protection of the property and people occupying it.
Conclusion
Cementitious waterproofing is an important part of any construction project. And regardless of the system you’ll choose, be sure to work with experienced and trustworthy waterproofing specialists. Contact at least three waterproofing specialists or companies and decide which one meets your requirements.
