Sustainable building practices are gaining popularity. And green roofs, with their ability to improve energy efficiency, reduce urban heat, and support biodiversity, are leading the way in eco-conscious design.
Liquid waterproofing solutions are specially designed to meet the demands of green roofs because of their durability, flexibility, and environmental compatibility. They are not just an investment in advanced waterproofing technology but also a contribution to a more sustainable future.
Curious to learn more about how liquid waterproofing supports green roofs and sustainability? Keep reading to explore the details!
Contents
What is Liquid Waterproofing?
Liquid waterproofing is the process of applying liquid waterproofing membranes to surfaces to form a waterproof barrier. It is a building practice becoming a preferred choice among architects and builders.
A popular choice of sustainability these days is green roofs. Green roofs are environment-friendly roofing systems that house living vegetation to create an aesthetic and functional layer on top of buildings. This is why liquid waterproofing is a good choice of waterproofing for green roofs as it protects underlying structures while allowing for soil and plant growth.
Why Is Liquid Waterproofing in Green Roofs a Sustainable Building Practice?
1. Eco-Friendly Compounds
Liquid waterproofing products usually have low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They also utilize renewable resources, making them eco-friendly materials. It ensures these materials do not leach harmful substances into the environment.
Traditional bituminous membranes and polyurethane-bituminous combinations have high VOC content, making them less suitable for green roofs. But acrylic membranes and certain low-VOC polyurethane membranes are environmentally friendly choices for green roofs due to their low VOC emissions.
2. Compatibility with Vegetation
Liquid waterproofing membranes are designed so that water vapour can permeate them. This allows moisture to escape from the substrate while preventing water ingress, promising healthy plant life on green roofs. Moreover, many liquid waterproofing products are also root-resistant, preventing plant roots from penetrating the membrane and causing leaks. This feature ensures the long life of both the green roofs and the plants on them.
3. Rainwater Management
Storms in Indian urban areas can often lead to overflowing drainages. Green roofs equipped with liquid waterproofing can retain up to 75% of rainwater, which reduces rainwater runoff. Subsequently, it contributes to better drainage systems in urban areas and saves water.
4. Durability
With proper roof waterproofing services, liquid waterproofing can last over 15 years. It protects materials such as wood, concrete, and metal from moisture exposure. This durability minimizes repairs or replacements, material waste, environmental footprint, and the extraction and manufacturing of new materials.
While foam-based waterproofing systems fill gaps effectively, they often require additional sealing measures for complete waterproofing, which can lead to increased material use and waste. But liquid waterproofing can cover complex shapes without the need for additional materials or layers.
5. Energy Efficiency
Buildings that experience water damage often require more energy to manage dampness and mould. Liquid waterproofing membranes enhance building energy efficiency. These systems maintain indoor temperatures by preventing water ingress. This reduces the need to switch on your ceiling fans or air conditioners for heating and cooling, lowering energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Healthier Indoor Air Quality
Liquid waterproofing prevents moisture buildup which hinders mould growth. No mould means no spore-related allergies and respiratory issues. The improved air quality leads to better health outcomes for inhabitants. Plus, it reduces the need for mechanical ventilation systems that consume additional energy.
Types of Liquid Waterproofing for Green Roofs
1. Polyurethane (PU) Membranes
- Properties: Elastic, durable, resistant to UV radiation, able to accommodate structural movements and minor cracks.
- Applications: For extensive green roofs due to their flexibility and root resistance.
2. Acrylic Membranes
- Properties: Water-based, low in VOCs, quick-drying, flexible, UV-resistant. But may not be as durable as polyurethane options.
- Applications: For areas with moderate exposure to moisture; used with other waterproofing roof coatings for added protection.
3. Cementitious Waterproofing
- Properties: Composed of cement-based materials, highly resistant to water ingress. But may not be as flexible as PU membranes.
- Applications: Used in areas requiring additional structural support or chemical resistance; used with other waterproofing methods.
Sunanda Global’s Liquid Waterproofing Solutions for Green Roofs
SUNPRUFE PU1K
SUNPRUFE PU1K is a single-component polyurethane waterproofing and sealing membrane, ideal for green roofs. It offers seamless, durable, and flexible protection for concrete surfaces.
Features
- Single-component system; no mixing required.
- Strong adhesion to concrete with flexibility in extreme temperatures.
- Seamless waterproofing eliminates issues common with sheet membranes.
- Thick, flexible membrane removes the need for reinforcing layers.
User Guidelines
- Clean the surface of dirt, dust, oil, and grease.
- Fill cracks and level surfaces with repair mortar.
- Cure the mortar for 24 hours.
- Prime with SUNPRIME PU and air cure for 30 minutes.
- Apply SUNPROOF PU 1K in two coats (1.2–2.3 kg/m²).
- Let the first coat cure until tack-free.
- Air-cure the final coat for 12–48 hours.
SUNROOF PU
SUNROOF PU is an eco-friendly waterproofing and sealing membrane designed for green roofs. Its durable, non-toxic formulation ensures efficient protection and easy application.
Features
- Thick, flexible membrane eliminates the need for reinforcement.
- Does not stain tiles or marble; UV-resistant.
- Can be applied on damp, visibly dry surfaces without blistering.
- Non-odorous, suitable for confined areas.
- Environmentally friendly, free of harmful fumes or gases.
User Guidelines
- Clean surfaces thoroughly; treat cracks and construction joints.
- Prime the surface with SUNPRIME adhesion promoter primer.
- Apply SUNROOF PU in two coats: 1 kg/m² for the first coat, 0.5 kg/m² for the second.
- Allow 4–6 hours between coats.
- Ensure a thin, continuous layer over the entire waterproofing area.
- Finish with a protective course specified by the client to safeguard the membrane.
As the best waterproofing company, Sunanda Global is committed to promoting sustainable building practices through advanced solutions like liquid waterproofing for green roofs. Our expertise and supreme products ensure that your projects are durable and eco-friendly, aligning perfectly with modern construction needs. Our expert waterproofing contractors in Delhi and other cities of India are here to assist you, offering professional services to ensure your green roof remains a strong barrier for years to come.
Contact us today to find out how our expert waterproofing solutions can elevate your project!
