Liquid waterproofing refers to a method of creating a protective waterproof barrier through the application of a liquid-based coating. These coatings, which can be applied similarly to paint or spray, cure to form highly flexible, monolithic membranes. They are known for their excellent waterproofing capabilities, adapting to various surfaces and shapes. This makes liquid applied waterproofing suitable for a range of construction applications.
Types of Liquid Waterproofing
Liquid waterproofing membrane come in various formulations, each suited for specific applications and surfaces. The following is a list of a few common types of membranes.
Acrylic Water-based Waterproofing Membranes
Acrylic water-based waterproofing membranes are composed of a water-based emulsion of acrylic resins and various additives. These membranes are eco-friendly and stand out for their ease of application, offering a practical solution for waterproofing needs. They possess remarkable flexibility and excellent crack-bridging abilities, making them ideal for surfaces that Experience movement or settling. Additionally, their breathable nature allows moisture trapped within structures to escape, while also being resistant to UV rays, ensuring durability and longevity.
Two-Component Polyurethane Liquid Membranes
Polyurethane liquid membranes are a two-component liquid system formulated with polyurethane resins. These membranes are characterized by their high elasticity and durability, ensuring long-lasting protection. They adhere strongly to a variety of surfaces, providing excellent water resistance. Additionally, they are resistant to chemicals and extreme temperature variations, making them suitable for harsh environments.
Single-Component Polyurethane Liquid Membranes
Single-component polyurethane liquid membranes offer all the advantages of a two-component polyurethane membrane with additional ease of application as there is no batching and mixing involved at the job site. The product being a single component is ready to use, thereby reducing the number of operations at the site and increasing the user-friendliness of the product.
Polyurea Liquid Membranes
Polyurea liquid membranes are a spray-applied waterproofing solution composed of fast-reacting polyurea resin and an isocyanate hardener. These membranes offer superior chemical and abrasion resistance, along with extreme durability and high tensile strength. They form a seamless and highly elastic coating and cure very rapidly. Consequently, they require a high degree of applicator expertise and the correct use of equipment for their application. These membranes cannot be applied manually and must be applied by a two-component, heated, airless spray.
Features of Liquid Waterproofing
Waterproofing using liquid-based solutions offer unique and effective solutions for protecting various surfaces from water infiltration. Compared to traditional methods of waterproofing, the liquid-based method has several significant features. The appropriate waterproofing liquid depends on the application, surface, and required performance.
Ease of Application
They can be applied similarly to paint, using standard tools like brushes, rollers, or sprayers. This straightforward method doesn’t require specialized equipment or extensive training. However, the application method for a liquid for waterproofing depends on its formulation, as systems such as polyurea require specialized spray equipment and applicator expertise.
Quick Coverage
The fluid nature of these membranes enables faster coverage of large areas compared to sheet-based or other waterproofing methods. This is particularly beneficial for areas like bathrooms and waterproofing shower areas, where time is often of the essence.
Self-Leveling Properties
Many liquid-based waterproofing solutions have self-leveling qualities, which help in achieving a uniform thickness and finish without extensive manual effort.
Cost-Effectiveness
While the initial cost of some liquid-based waterproofing systems might seem higher than traditional methods, their long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements often make them more cost-effective in the long run.
Choosing the Right Waterproofing Liquid
Selecting a waterproofing liquid depends on the surface, application requirements, exposure conditions, and the properties required from the finished membrane. Acrylic, polyurethane, and polyurea systems have different characteristics, so the best waterproof liquid should be selected according to the specific requirements of the project.
For roof applications, a waterproof liquid for roof surfaces should be selected based on the substrate and exposure conditions. The suitability and application requirements of the liquid waterproofing membrane should also be considered before selecting the system.
Sunanda Global’s Projects with Liquid Waterproofing Products
ELASTOROOF PU: 1K polyurethane waterproofing and sealing membrane
Elastoroof PU is a single-component, liquid-applied, moisture-cured, polyurethane elastomeric membrane for waterproofing and sealing various kinds of surfaces. It can be easily applied and it adheres strongly to the surface of concrete. It can be applied using a brush or a roller, due to this easy application procedure, there is a significant reduction in labor costs and application time.
A well-known case study for Elastoroof PU is its use in the prestigious Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad India. The coating is applied over a primer in two layers after perfect surface preparation. In the end, the membrane is protected with geotextile before laying tiles or other protective surfacing. This polyurethane liquid membrane waterproofing made the stadium one of the spectacles in the cricket community.
FLEXIROOF PU: Single component modified polyurethane elastomeric membrane
Flexiroof PU provides seamless waterproofing, unlike sheet-type membranes. It adheres strongly to the surface of concrete and remains flexible under extreme temperature conditions. We delivered Flexiroof PU to the beautiful Harvard Business School India campus at Mumbai in India.
At the Harvard Business School – India campus, the waterproofing process involved a meticulous application of Flexiroof PU, ensuring the durability and integrity of their structures. Initially, a primer coat of Flexiroof PU primer is applied on the cleaned RCC slab surface. Following this, the first coat of the primer is evenly spread by brush, roller, or spray at a rate of 1.5 – 2.2 kg/sq.m. in two coats. Post curing, a protective screed / IPS is laid after a 2-3 day drying period. The screed, enhanced with SUNPLEX anti-shrinkage admixture, is then cured. This comprehensive waterproofing process is pivotal in maintaining the structural resilience of the esteemed institution.
Conclusion
Sunanda Global has an extensive range of liquid-based waterproofing solutions including polyurethane waterproofing and sealing membranes, polyurea membranes, hybrid polyurea membranes, acrylic membranes, etc., from numerous compounds to fix the leakages. Sunanda Global’s expertise in creating tailored waterproofing solutions ensures reliable and long-lasting protection for a wide array of construction needs, safeguarding structures against water damage with state-of-the-art technology.
The appropriate liquid for waterproofing should be selected according to the application and required system performance. Sunanda Global’s range provides options for liquid applied waterproofing across different construction requirements.
FAQs
Q1. What is liquid waterproofing?
Liquid waterproofing involves applying a liquid-based coating that cures to form a flexible, monolithic membrane, creating a protective barrier against water infiltration.
Q2. What are the different types of liquid waterproofing membranes?
A liquid waterproofing membrane may be acrylic, single or two-component polyurethane, or polyurea. Each formulation offers different properties and application requirements.
Q3. How is liquid applied waterproofing applied?
Liquid applied waterproofing may be applied using brushes, rollers, or spray equipment, depending on the formulation. Some systems, such as polyurea, require specialized equipment.
Q4. How do I choose the best waterproof liquid?
The best waterproof liquid depends on the substrate, application, exposure conditions, and required properties. Different acrylic, polyurethane, and polyurea systems suit different requirements.
Q5. Can liquid waterproofing be used on roofs?
A waterproof liquid for roof applications should be selected according to the roof substrate, exposure conditions, and required performance of the waterproofing system.
Q6. What are the advantages of using a waterproofing liquid?
A waterproofing liquid can provide seamless coverage, flexibility, ease of application, and efficient coverage. Specific features vary according to the formulation and waterproofing system selected.
