What is penetrating waterproofing for concrete, where it is used and how to apply to the surface

When it comes to preventing water damage to concrete surfaces, penetrating waterproofing is revolutionary. This kind of waterproofing is very effective for long-term protection because, in contrast to conventional coatings, it seeps into the concrete and forms a barrier from within. You can maintain dry and resilient surfaces on any concrete structure, including basements and foundations, by being aware of how this process operates.

Applications for penetrating waterproofing range from industrial floors to basements in homes. It is perfect for moist areas because of its resistance to water pressure and ability to stop leaks. When used properly, it increases the longevity and durability of the concrete, sparing you money on future, expensive repairs.

Although it’s simple to apply, penetrating waterproofing needs careful planning. Before applying, the concrete surface must be dry and clean. When the waterproofing solution is ready, it is applied to the concrete using a brush or roller to enable deep penetration. For optimum efficacy, the surface must be given enough time to cure after application.

Principle of operation

Because of its fluid composition, the substance can seep into the structure of various materials. This characteristic forms the basis of the waterproofing mixtures’ mechanism of action. The structure of concrete is made up of numerous capillaries. These are the tiniest openings that allow liquid to enter deeply.

Liquid waterproofing interacts with water as it permeates the concrete’s structure. The process of crystallization consequently takes place. The capillaries are completely closed off, making it impossible for liquid to pass through them. By doing this, you can prevent the structure from being destroyed.

Concrete waterproofing that penetrates deeply into the surface to prevent water from leaking through and causing damage is known as penetrating waterproofing. This kind of waterproofing is frequently applied to concrete structures exposed to moisture, such as foundations and basements. Cleaning the surface, putting the waterproofing product on, and waiting for it to cure completely are the steps involved in applying it. Through the prevention of water-related problems like cracks and deterioration, this technique helps increase the lifespan of concrete.

In what cases is it used

Concrete penetrating waterproofing is employed in several situations:

• processing of wet surfaces, additional drying is not required;
• increasing the service life of reinforced concrete structures, while reducing the likelihood of metal rusting, since. . moisture does not penetrate deep into the material;
• restoration of the surfaces of concrete walls, floors, supports, if the process of their destruction has begun due to frequent contact with moisture (building material crumbles, cracks appear);
• waterproofing of above-ground and underground parts of the facility;
• constant undermining of the foundation of a concrete building with groundwater, flooding of the facility, which leads to the erosion of the foundation material, destruction of the building;
• sealing of water tanks.

Main characteristics

The properties of the composition and its impact on the facility’s foundation must be taken into consideration when using deep penetration waterproofing as the primary protective measure. The benefits and drawbacks of employing penetrating mixtures are considered when contrasting them with alternative insulation techniques.

The primary attribute of this composition is its capacity to replenish the shield that was created during the chemical reaction between the penetrating mixture and the concrete. The crystals may be destroyed if they come into constant contact with water. They do, however, gradually recover.

Moisture protection therefore keeps working for a very long time.

Advantages

• the composition can be used at the construction stage and in cases where the facility has long been commissioned;
• it is allowed to treat a moistened concrete surface, while the material does not lose its properties, on the contrary, upon contact with moisture, the penetrating insulation immediately begins to act;
• after applying the composition, the period of operation of the facility increases several times;
• this method of protection is suitable for any type of building;
• the installation work is accelerated, because. k. often after applying the penetrating composition, other types of insulation are not used;
• the risk of corrosion of metal elements of reinforced concrete structures is eliminated;
• resistance to chemical influences is noted;
• air permeability of the processed material;
• high degree of mobility;
• resistance to temperature fluctuations;
• the material can withstand a wide range of temperatures.

Disadvantages

The use of penetrating compounds has far fewer drawbacks. Take note:

• it is not advisable to use this method of waterproofing for processing brick structures and buildings made of foam concrete, foam blocks, since. . the chemical crystallization reaction will not occur in the brick structure, and foam concrete is too porous a material, when using a penetrating composition, not all capillaries will be filled;
• high cost;
• when performing certain types of work, it is necessary to use a penetrating composition for waterproofing concrete simultaneously with other types of moisture-proofing materials;
• the surface must be carefully prepared: it is cleaned, dusted and degreased, and then moistened.

Types of compositions

A concrete structure’s protection strategy is determined by comparing various materials based on their respective qualities. This enables you to choose the right choice. Furthermore, this technique is employed to choose a substance for extra defense of the concrete surface that has been penetrated with a penetrating compound.

Liquid

This group consists of:

• liquid glass;
• liquid rubber.

These materials are readily available in ready-made form and are safe for human use. Following processing, a coating is created that offers concrete a high level of protection. The liquid glass or rubber layer prevents moisture from penetrating, but this is only possible if the surface has been adequately prepped. Consequently, there is an improvement in material adhesion. In this instance, water does not pass through the concrete’s layer of liquid waterproofing.

In contrast, unlike bitumen, this kind of material doesn’t need to be heated beforehand. It’s also much simpler to work with rubber and liquid glass. Among the benefits is the composition’s adaptability to uneven surfaces.

For waterproofing concrete surfaces, however, a dry mixture is far less expensive than liquid rubber and glass.

Coating type

This group of materials is distinguished by their viscosity. Among them is bitumen mastic. High concrete and waterproofing adhesion during processing ensures that the structure is water-tight. The absence of moisture protection, which has a detrimental effect on concrete when it appears, is the drawback.

This is because bitumen mastic cannot pierce through the concrete to a deep enough level. However, compared to using these materials separately, more dependable moisture protection is offered when coating and penetrating waterproofing are combined.

Concrete paint

This class of materials includes paints that are impervious to water. Since special paint application knowledge is not needed, this option is frequently selected in cases where finishing work experience is lacking.

Concrete processing is completed quickly. To do this, a sprayer is used, allowing you to control the amount of coloring material and prevent smudges.

The foundation’s joints can also be shielded by the paint. This type of waterproofing is applied to tanks that come into contact with water when finishing a swimming pool.

Adhesive type

In this instance, the task is completed in two phases:

• bitumen mastic is applied to the prepared surface (leveled, cleaned, treated with a primer);
• when the layer of coating insulation dries, the roofing felt is unrolled, as this happens, a gas burner is used to heat the bitumen, resulting in a durable coating that reliably adheres to the concrete and does not allow water to pass through.

This protection approach is better than the one that relies solely on roll material. Consequently, this type of coating deforms rapidly, meaning that nothing remains fixed on the surface. Furthermore, when backfilled, the roofing material—which is frequently used as roll insulation—quickly deforms.

Application Features

Guidelines for carrying out waterproofing:

1. The quality of the concrete structure surface is checked if the object is old. If necessary, remove the plaster layer. Then apply the finishing material to level the surface.
2. If the foundation is severely damaged, it may be necessary to reinforce the structure, which is done by additional reinforcement.
3. When large cracks form, they are widened and then sealed with a cement composition.
4. The joints of the foundation and concrete slabs of other buildings are partially expanded, for which the chasing method is used. These areas are protected with a sealing composition. The same principle is used to fill in the gaps around the communications that come out through the concrete structure.
5. After preparation, the surface is cleaned, and it is important to remove not only dirt, but also dust.
6. The concrete structure is degreased on the side where the penetrating composition is planned to be applied.
7. Prepare the waterproofing material. To apply it, use a spray gun, brush or roller.

The joint joints are only widened when the penetrating waterproofing method is applied if the concrete crumbles in these areas.

One useful method for preventing water damage to concrete surfaces is penetrating waterproofing. It is perfect for a variety of applications, including foundations, basements, exterior walls, and parking decks because of its capacity to permeate into the concrete and create a barrier against moisture.

It is essential to properly prepare the surface before applying penetrating waterproofing. Make sure there are no contaminants or loose materials in the concrete, and that it is dry and clean. Applying the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions will help guarantee long-lasting protection and the best results.

In general, penetrating waterproofing can improve the durability and lifespan of concrete structures. Investing in this efficient solution will protect your concrete surfaces from water-related problems and help them keep their integrity for many years to come.

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