Waterproofing failures can sometimes stem from confusion between waterproof cement and cementitious waterproofing systems. While both address water protection, they work through different mechanisms and suit different applications.
Keep reading to understand when to specify each system.
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What Is Waterproof Cement?
Waterproof cement contains additives that reduce concrete permeability during mixing. It provides protection through the concrete’s inherent properties rather than relying on surface treatments or applied membranes.
Standard concrete, while strong, is naturally porous and will absorb water over time. Waterproof cement protects against this, preventing water damage and structural decay.
When Waterproof Cement Works Best
Structural Integration Requirements: Waterproof cement suits applications where waterproofing must integrate with structural concrete. Water tanks, retaining walls, and basement foundations benefit from this.
Construction Sequence Simplification: Projects with tight schedules or limited access benefit from waterproof cement because waterproofing occurs during concrete placement. No additional waterproofing trades or curing delays are required.
High Water Table Conditions: Permanent hydrostatic pressure conditions favour waterproof cement because the protection exists throughout the concrete thickness.
Aggressive Soil Conditions: Waterproof cement with appropriate chemical resistance additives protects from within the concrete matrix. This resists chemical attack from sulfates, chlorides, or acidic soils.
Limitations of Waterproof Cement
Crack Bridging Capacity: Waterproof cement cannot bridge structural cracks that exceed its inherent flexibility. Settlement cracks or thermal movement can compromise the effectiveness of waterproof cement.
Quality Control Challenges: Proper mixing, placement, and curing become critical for waterproof cement performance. Variations in water content, mixing time, or curing conditions can reduce waterproofing effectiveness.
Repair Complexity: Localized failures in waterproof cement require concrete removal and replacement rather than simple membrane repairs. This makes remedial work expensive.
Movement Accommodation: Structures with big thermal movement or load deflection may exceed the waterproof cement’s integrity.
What Is Cementitious Waterproofing?
Cementitious waterproofing systems are coatings/membranes applied over concrete substrates. These waterproofing coatings create a barrier as a separate layer that bonds to the concrete substrate.
Modern cementitious waterproofing systems can stretch and recover from substrate movement that would crack conventional concrete.
When Cementitious Waterproofing Excels
Movement Tolerance Requirements: Structures subject to thermal cycling, strong winds, or seismic movement benefit from flexible cementitious systems.
Maintenance and Repair Accessibility: Surface-applied systems allow easier inspection and localized repairs compared to waterproof cement that requires concrete replacement.
Phased Construction: Cementitious systems suit projects done in phases. They can be applied to finished sections while work continues nearby. This shows better flexibility than waterproof cement, which must be integrated during the initial pour.
You should also know another excellent waterproofing solution: HDPE membrane, a self-adhesive waterproofing membrane. See why HDPE membranes are suitable for these 8 industries. Head to this blog to see if your industry is one of them.
Waterproof Cement or Cementitious Waterproofing? Here Are Some Examples
Basement Waterproofing: Basement waterproofing faces unique challenges from hydrostatic pressure and limited access for maintenance.
Waterproof cement works well for new construction basements with stable soil conditions and minimal movement. And, the integral protection handles hydrostatic pressure effectively. Cementitious systems suit basement renovations and applications with expected thermal movement.
There are more options you can consider for basement waterproofing. Here is a guide on basement waterproofing tips & products like sump drains, polyurethane injections, HDPE, and more.
Water Tank Construction: Potable water storage requires special considerations for health safety and maintenance access.
Waterproof cement provides excellent chemical resistance for water tanks while eliminating concerns about membrane degradation. Cementitious systems offer superior crack bridging for tanks subject to temperature-related movement.
Monsoon Conditions: Waterproof cement performs reliably under sustained water exposure without degradation concerns. Cementitious systems require proper surface preparation and curing before monsoon exposure. However, their repair accessibility allows easy maintenance after extreme weather events.
Temperature Extremes: Waterproof cement relies on concrete’s thermal properties for movement accommodation. Large temperature swings can exceed its flexibility limits and cause cracking. Cementitious systems handle temperature-induced movement better through their elastomeric properties.
Sunanda Global’s Cementitious Waterproofing Solution
POLYKOTE 2C provides advanced cementitious waterproofing through its elastomeric coating system designed for demanding waterproofing applications.
This system retains flexibility even when continuously submerged, making it ideal for water tanks and swimming pools. Good chemical resistance handles exposure to domestic wastewater and agricultural applications involving manure contact.
POLYALK WP can be easily mixed with cement forming an impermeable co-matrix film. It can be applied in moist and damp conditions, e.g., exteriors, and terraces in wet spells of monsoon. Known for its high flexural strength and ability to resist carbonation, POLYALK WP is an excellent waterproofing choice.
Why Choose Sunanda Global for Waterproofing Solutions?
With over 45 years of expertise, Sunanda Global leads in waterproofing innovation. We invest 5% of annual revenue in R&D, focusing 60% of our efforts on LEED-compliant and eco-friendly products. We hold the unique ISO 9001:2015 certification among Indian construction chemical manufacturers.
As the best waterproofing company, our low-VOC, environmentally conscious waterproofing systems deliver top performance while minimizing ecological impact. Moreover, Sunanda Global provides full support: from technical advice to premium membranes and vetted application partners. With us, you can expect reliable on-site execution through trusted waterproofing contractors in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and other major cities.
Reach out today and have a free consultation. Let Sunanda Global safeguard your projects.
