Why shouldn’t waterproofing be overlooked?

Ar. Gaurav Sanghavi outlines why waterproofing should not be considered just a means of shielding structures from water damage but a more important function influencing energy efficiency and the life of a structure.

Why waterproof your buildings?
Among other preventive measures, waterproofing is essential to preventing structural demolition because it protects buildings from water intrusion, which causes material deterioration, corrosion, and health risks for building occupants. By preventing these, waterproofing ensures structural longevity and reduces the likelihood of costly repairs and safety issues.

Current trends
Liquid membranes and bituminous coatings, particularly in high-rise structures, ensure stability because such structures pose unique challenges. The primary method for waterproofing buildings depends on the application and location, but the most versatile and effective methods are liquid membranes and cementitious waterproofing. While cementitious waterproofing offers a strong and impenetrable barrier against water infiltration, liquid membranes—primarily polyurethane and acrylic—are frequently perfect and can readily allow movement in the structure. Bituminous waterproofing is another popular method that can be applied as a coating or membrane. The method uses bitumen, a sticky black substance, and is particularly popular for roofs and foundations.

Waterproofing chemicals
Waterproofing chemicals are especially important in monsoon-prone areas because they reduce water ingress and moisture-related damage during heavy rains. They act as a barrier, intercepting water intrusion through surfaces, protecting walls, roofs, foundations, and other structural components from water damage, extending the life of structures and reducing the need for frequent renovation and maintenance.

Chemicals used for waterproofing include polymers, commonly used as roof coatings or membrane sheets and are extremely water-resistant and durable; cementitious coatings; liquid rubber waterproofing, which is flexible and thin, making it easy to apply; thermoplastic and PVC waterproofing membranes, which are UV-resistant and commonly used for roof waterproofing; and crystalline epoxy coatings, which prevents water ingress by forming a crystalline barrier within concrete.

Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology redefines waterproofing techniques through incredibly thin (nanoscale), durable, and water-impermeable coatings. Unlike traditional methods, these coatings penetrate deeply into materials, forming a strong barrier against water intrusion while still allowing for breathability.

Nanotech coatings have several advantages over traditional waterproofing methods, including superior water repellence, increased durability, lower maintenance costs, and potential environmental benefits.

Application areas of nanotech coatings
Nanotech coatings strengthen basement structures. By preventing corrosion and water ingress, they can extend the life of concrete structures. Nanotech coatings are also suitable for protecting metal and wood surfaces from water damage and deterioration.

Compared to primaeval methods, recently developed waterproofing techniques improve protection and resilience by utilising liquid-applied coatings, novel and flexible membranes, and intelligent leak detection systems. These advancements include drainage and cavity wall systems, hydrophobic materials, and novel solutions such as PVC membrane pool liners and green roof technology.

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