EnglishWater damage in a building can become a serious issue because toxic molds and mildews may thrive and can put the entire structure at risk. A lot of residential and commercial buildings use waterproofing to prevent water seepage from happening and causing issues particularly in the basement areas. Waterproofing can also lower the energy costs and it strengthens the foundations of structures.
What Are Cementitious Waterproofing Products?
Cementitious coatings, as the name implies, rely on cement-based coatings to provide a waterproof barrier. These systems combine Portland cement with a waterproofing agent, typically a synthetic emulsion polymer. They can be applied behind tile, over masonry patching and over concrete surfaces. Cementitious coatings are popular because they’re easy to apply, create breathable barriers and offer superior bonding strength. Plus, they function equally well in both above- and below-grade applications.
Cementitious coatings can be classified either by the surface onto which they’re applied or by the number of components used in the system. In the former category, cementitious coatings can give concrete and masonry surfaces positive- and negative-side waterproofing. A positive-side surface refers to the surface exposed to positive hydrostatic pressure for example the water pushes the barrier against the structure. A negative-side surface is just the opposite for example the water tries to pull the barrier away from the structure. On a foundation, for example, the positive-side surface would be the outside surface closest to the soil. The negative-side surface would be the inside surface of the basement wall. Cementitious coatings can also be classified as either one component or two component systems.
Advantages of cementitious waterproof coating
Cementitious waterproof coating types are two-component blends. Cementitious waterproofing method is used for substrate control movement.
Some of the advantages are;
- It is easy to apply and it is available at any hardware store or masonry supply shops.
- These coatings are handled similarly to cement, mix it in with water until it achieves the right consistency and can be applied using a stiff-bristled brush.
- It is seamless and adds to the aesthetic quality of the structure it’s applied to.
- It is chemical resistant as well as abrasion and weather resistant including frost.
- It is good at bonding porous and non-porous surfaces, as well as old and new concrete.
- Improves the watertightness of water-containing concrete tanks, reservoirs, and clearwells.
- Protects against water penetration, yet water vapor permeable (breathable).
- Excellent freeze/thaw resistance.
- Good adhesion to sound, prepared substrates.
- Easy and fast mixing and application.
- Good abrasion resistance.
- Can be mixed to slurry or trowelable consistency.
- Improves concrete/masonry appearance.