Waterproofing is a process that involves making a structure or surface water-resistant or waterproof so that it is unaffected by water or resists water damage under special conditions. Waterproofing is done on external and internal surfaces, including underwater materials to specified lengths.
It is used in your clothing items, in your vehicle, in your home, or else it will flood. Because waterproofing has so many applications, not all waterproofing materials are appropriate for all of them. As a result, you must make certain that you obtain the appropriate type of waterproofing for your specific needs. Given below is a comprehensive guide of different types of materials used in waterproofing and their purposes.
Polyurethanes
The creation of Polyurethanes is through a chemical reaction of a polyol with either a polymeric isocyanate or a diisocyanate. Appropriate catalysts and chemicals aid the reaction. Polyurethanes come in two types, thermosetting polyurethanes, and thermoplastic polyurethanes. Thermoplastic polyurethanes melt when heated, while thermosetting polyurethanes do not possess the same quality.
Hence, there are different uses in the production sector of both these materials. Thermosetting polyurethanes come in a variety of forms, including soft foam and hard foam. Hard foams are used as isolation materials, while beds, packaging materials, and quilts are produced by soft foam.
Cementitious coating
Portland cement is one of its key components of cementitious coating and is clasped on the surface by a binder to give it its shape. This coating forms an alkaline and extremely elastic coating on the substrate providing corrosion resistance; for instance, steel is protected by maintaining the pH level above 4.0.
Cementitious coating also protects from the effects of moisture, aggressive acid gases, chloride, and chemical attacks. This coating has excellent adherence to both concrete and steel, making it ideal for application on concrete in sulfate-affected areas. Cementitious coatings not only improve the durability of reinforced concrete but can also help protect highways and coastal structures from the adverse effects of chloride.
Roofing Felt
Roofing felt is one of the most old-school ways of waterproof coverings in residential and commercial roofs. Roll roofing and roof shingles use roofing felt like the basic component in carrying out the processes. Roofing has two layers that ensure maximum waterproofing. The self-protective top layer is made up of mineral granules, while the first underside polymer membrane is used as a farm background.
The under layer is often reinforced with glass fibers, and finally, a bituminous mixture is poured between the two layers to encapsulate the layers. It is commonly used during construction as a safety barrier, as it protects the roof deck against any other materials or processes being carried out. You can try https://oriolebw.com/ if you need professional help.
Liquid applied membranes
As the name suggests, Liquid applied membranes naturally exist in liquid form, which is then brush-applied on the surface or sprayed. This type of waterproofing is often referred to as liquid roofing. As the applied substance dries, it forms a waterproof, joint-free, and coherent covering, and for this reason, they are widely renowned at a high level as compared to sheet-based membranes. Special care is taken with regards to the right thickness, as the membrane may break or tear if it is too thin.
To ensure maximum adherence, a process called sand broadcasting is carried out. Sand broadcasting involves applying a thin coating of sand to the wet membrane (before it has fully set) by hand so that the sand adheres to the membrane and offers a rough surface for the concrete to cling onto. Due to its efficient technology and waterproofing qualities, it is most commonly used in green, buried, and inverted roofs.
Bitumen
One such substance is Bitumen which consists of different carbon-based fluids that are very gluey, viscous, and waterproof. Bitumen is highly effective in waterproofing several products, such as in the production of roofing felt and the sealing of flat roofs.
However, Bitumen has the tendency to change with the temperature, meaning that there is a definite range where the thickness allows suitable compaction by providing a fair amount of lubrication between particles during the compaction process. Short levels of temperature block the collective particles from moving forward, which causes the necessary density to be unattainable.
Mastic Asphalt
Another substance that plays a vital role in the waterproofing of different objects is Mastic Asphalt, otherwise known as ‘MA.’ This is a thick, rough collection of various other materials such as limestone, sand, filler, or Bitumen. The binder is designed in a way that allows all the ‘holes’ to be entirely occupied. Fortunately, mastic asphalt can be easily poured and can also evenly branch out in its original temperature state.
Its sturdiness and easy application prove that it is one of its kind as it allows the passage of heavy traffic smoothly, without losing its waterproof abilities. Due to its easy application, in the case of any damage taking place, the repair isn’t such a difficult task. Another huge upside of mastic asphalt is its ability to dry rapidly.
Thermoplastic
Thermoplastic becomes flexible at a particularly high temperature and attains its solid form once cooled down. This specific material has a list of outstanding abilities. For starters, it is scratch-proof; this allows for it to remain clear. It is also tear-resistant and has great twisting and malleable power. Resistance to low temperatures, along with its resistance to chemicals such as oxygen, fuel, oil, and ozone, makes thermoplastic extremely durable in the long run. Materials coated in thermoplastic are not only UV resilient but can also withstand harsh weather and environmental factors. Moreover, when combined with glued or welded seals, their water retaining qualities are top-notch.
Sheet waterproofing membrane
Sheet waterproofing membranes are delivered to the construction site in the form of rolls of sheets. After arrival, they are unrolled and placed on a hard, flat surface.
Using blowtorches, this sort of membrane adheres to the surface with a blazing hot tar-based adhesive. In order to create a waterproof seamless joint, the sheets are overlapped by 4 inches. Some membranes are joined by melting their sides with a hot blowtorch by hand and then laying them on top of one another. The same adhesive is used for the sheets as well as the joints. Joints between the membranes are to be done carefully to ensure leakage. The most common uses include the lining of walls, roofs, and buildings.
In the above-stated paragraphs, there are countless types of waterproofing materials readily available. Each one of these materials is specifically designed to carry out a function, and some are designed to offer alternatives in the market. Take the time to carefully select which material works best to cater to your needs.