Why Is Concrete Waterproofing So Important?

Antonio Neves
Written by
Antonio Neves
Published on
9/3/2024
Updated on
9/6/2024
Why Is Concrete Waterproofing So Important?

All concrete has a degree of porosity that can increase considerably when exposed to moisture from the soil and frequent rains, since the risks of infiltration increase. A waterproofing concrete is a technique that solves this problem by applying an impenetrable barrier to walls and floors.

Many professionals ignore this technique or develop the steps incorrectly. However, it is practically impossible to have good quality concrete over time without using suitable waterproofing agents. Follow this article to understand how concrete waterproofing works.

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How to do the waterproofing of concrete?

There isn't much mystery in this procedure. Concrete waterproofing agents can be applied easily and are not expensive for the work.

These products are effective in preventing water from penetrating the surface. In this way, they can be seen as polymer-based coatings, whose direct spraying on concrete already provides excellent results.

There are different application methods, according to the manufacturer's instructions. At the time of applying, it is necessary to carry all necessary personal protective equipment.

Before applying any type of waterproofing to concrete, it is very important to pay attention to the previous surface cleaning procedures.

The norm ABNT NBR 7200, in section 8.4.1, describes the process of cleaning the base, although it is a standard aimed at the execution of coatings with inorganic mortars.

Cleaning the application surface is paramount to the successful application of any waterproofing agent. In this way, the application surface of the concrete must be clean, free of dust, grease, oil, efflorescence, loose materials or any products or incrustations that may impair the adhesion of the coating, in our case, of the waterproofing agent.

What are the main waterproofing systems?

Among the different waterproofing systems, let's mention the main ones used in concrete terms. Consider them according to your work.

Membranes

The membranes feature a flexible process and can be applied cold with the use of rollers and brushes. In this system, the acrylic polymers are seen as core material. The protection is applied in an easy and practical way.

A disadvantage of this type of protection is that the applied membrane completely alters the appearance of the concrete, taking away its original characteristics.

Varnishes

Varnishes are an option compared to membranes, in the sense that they alter the appearance of the concrete less. In some cases, it can even highlight the color and brightness of the material.

Water repellants

Os water repellents they are the favorite options for those who seek to repel water from concrete without altering their visual appearance. By increasing the surface tension of the structure, they give waterproofness to concrete surfaces. They can also be used in cement floors or in vertical surfaces.

What are the benefits of waterproof the concrete?

Much is heard about the application of waterproofing to walls due to humidity and the incidence of rainwater. Despite the importance of this technique, it cannot be ignored that the durability of concrete is also compromised by infiltration, which initiates the corrosion process of the reinforcement when it is not protected by a waterproofing agent.

Does concrete waterproofing treat the disease of seepage At the root, after all, moisture is one of the agents that compromise concrete structures and construction as a whole, initiating a series of other pathological manifestations in construction.

When you pay attention to this stage, you prevent the danger from taking on greater proportions, affecting other structures, to start the conversation.

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