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BellMont Blog

Why Waterproof?

22/2/2019

2 Comments

 
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Why Waterproof?
One of the most common building defects that our engineers come across day-to-day, are related to a lack of, or failure of waterproof membranes. You may be wondering, what exactly is a waterproof membrane and how do they help?

Well, as you may have thought, a waterproof membrane is something that is applied across the surface of the structure to prevent or lessen the effects that water may have on it. Why is it important to have an appropriate membrane though? The reasons are many, but the short answer is that water often leads to many difficult and expensive to fix problems within structures. Anything from the corrosion to the steel reinforcement in concrete, erosion, swelling of timber, to the delamination of materials and efflorescence.

One of the most common surfaces that these are applied to is concrete. Unlike what you may be thinking however, it is not only applied to areas that are at obvious risk of being affected by water, such as bathrooms and kitchens, but is usually applied universally. Other areas that are at particular risk include rooftops, balconies and basement areas.

There are a few different kinds of membranes, and its important to make sure that you apply the right one for the right job. Types of membranes, along with their general use include:
  • Cementitious Waterproofing Method is very commonly used for wet areas such as toilets and bathrooms. It is a semi-flexible or rigid type of waterproofing and not exposed to weathering or sunlight. 
  • Bituminous Coating Waterproofing Method is basically a coating of a flexible asphalt layer or in general practice we call it coal-tar.
  • Polyurethane Liquid Membrane Waterproofing Method is an expensive method and less used at site. It is very flexible membrane that is carefully applied to avoid peeling after some time. Used for roof /terrace and the areas that are exposed to weathering.

​If you are experiencing any leaking water, or an accumulation of efflorescence, get in touch with us today so we can help you build a better solution.
2 Comments
Sarah Smith link
30/4/2021 07:27:09 am

Thanks for explaining the need to waterproof. I don't think my basement is waterproof. I'll start looking for a service.

Reply
basement waterproofing link
15/11/2022 04:46:02 am

There are several reasons why a waterproof membrane might fail. If the membrane is not properly installed, it can develop leaks over time. If the membrane is damaged, it can also develop leaks. Weather can also play a role in the failure of a waterproof membrane, as heavy rains or snow can put pressure on the membrane and cause it to fail.

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  • Services
    • Civil and Structural Engineering
    • Heritage Buildings
    • Expert Witness Services
    • Waterproofing
    • Concrete Repair Investigations
    • Project Management
    • Rope Access
    • Design Building Practitioner
  • Our Team
  • Case Studies
    • Facade Case Studies >
      • Bondi
      • Marrickville
      • Darling Point
    • Heritage Buildings Case Studies >
      • Chinatown Gate Refurbishment
      • St Sophia Church
      • Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
      • Fortune of War Hotel
      • Spectacle Island
      • Ashfield
    • Waterproofing Case Studies >
      • Neutral Bay
      • Mascot
      • Summer Hill
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      • King Street Wharf
      • Rockwall Apartments, Potts Point
      • Kirribilli
  • Blog
  • BULLETIN
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