One of the most common structural problems in civil construction is infiltration. Humidity, facilitates the proliferation of mold, stains and fungi, causing paint peeling and even serious damage to the building. To avoid these annoyances, waterproofing supple it is the most used in projects, in places where there is structural movement and where performance requirements are greater.
A waterproofing It is the essential stage of a work and protects the building from the harmful effects of infiltration, ensuring more durability for the structure. This process is carried out at various stages of construction, from the base to facades, gardens, indoor environments, Water tanks and pools.
So, a good project of waterproofing is able to guarantee more safety, durability and savings for your business. In this article, we will show you the different types of waterproofing systems and how to apply them to your work. Have a good read!
Types of waterproofing
Waterproofing is omnipresent in the most varied types of projects, from the simplest, such as residential, to others that are more daring and elaborate. It provides protection for the building against the damaging effects of water and other aggressive agents found in the atmosphere that, together with humidity, can cause serious anomalies in the concrete.
Os waterproofing systems are divided between rigid and flexible. The choice of the most suitable one depends on some factors, such as the incidence of water, tendency to move, exposure to inclement weather, and interface with other construction methods.
O rigid system uses products, such as mortar waterproof and polymeric, and is not recommended for structures subject to structural and thermal movement, since it can cause cracks and major deformations. This system is suitable for basements, buried water reservoirs, elevator wells, Baldrames and small retaining walls.
Already flexible system it is capable of stretching across the structure and is suitable for places exposed to climatic variations and subject to movement, such as terraces, balconies and large retaining walls. Within this system, it is necessary to pay attention to the different technologies and waterproofing products, that guarantee more efficiency to the work. Therefore, it is always essential to have the help of qualified professionals when choosing the system that will best suit your project.
Flexible waterproofing
Flexible waterproofing allows the formation of a protective sheet that prevents water from penetrating the structure. This waterproofing method is the most used in Brazilian civil construction and stands out for its resistance to contractions and thermal expansion.
There are two types of flexible waterproofing products: molded in place, called membranes, and prefabricated ones, known as blankets. This system can be applied to terraces, massive slabs, suspended pools, upper reservoirs, verandas, roofs, gardens, water features, and floors in wet areas, such as washrooms and kitchens.
Generally, the products used in the flexible system are made on the basis of polymers and elastometers. In prefabricated methods, asphalt blankets have thicknesses defined by the manufacturers, allowing for easier and faster application. The site-molded system, on the other hand, has different thicknesses and requires application in several layers, respecting the drying period, according to the guidance of each manufacturer.
Main flexible systems
The system of flexible waterproofing it is the most used in Brazil, due to its elasticity properties and because it accompanies possible pathologies that the structure may suffer over time. See the most common systems used by civil construction.
Polymer mortar
Polymeric mortar is one of the most used systems in Brazil. It consists of a mixture between acrylic polymers and cement, which forms a weatherproof waterproofing and is the most compatible with coatings that will require bonding with adhesive mortars.
This type of waterproofing is suitable for places such as retaining walls, slabs, flower boxes, swimming pools and drinking water reservoirs.
Asphalt blanket
The asphalt blanket is the most famous system in the country and is composed of modified asphalt, reinforced with various materials, such as polyester, rubber, polyethylene and glass fibers. It is a prefabricated method, sold in rolls, and must be applied hot during the execution of the work.
The waterproofing system with asphalt blanket is suitable for places subject to heavy movement, such as gardens, slabs, gutters, terraces and cold areas. But beware: some type of coating or subfloor is needed to protect the asphalt sheet against mechanical shocks, abrasion and the sun's rays.
Polyurea
Polyurea is a type of resistant elastomer, the result of a chemical reaction between polyamine and isocyanate. The main advantages of this system of waterproofing are their high resistance to abrasion and chemical attacks and high flexibility. The application of this system requires the hiring of specialized labor due to its complexity and to avoid errors during the application. In addition, large and heavy machinery is required, which makes it impossible to apply in hard-to-reach areas.
Polyurea is not recommended for surfaces exposed to frequent rain, strong winds, or high temperatures. This system is suitable for aggressive locations, such as industrial floors, soccer stadium bleachers and reservoirs. The value of polyurea is higher compared to other methods, and it does not allow for a customized finish.
Acrylic emulsion
O waterproofing system with acrylic emulsion it is the result of acrylic and thermoplastic polymers in an aqueous medium. It is considered the best solution for regions that are difficult to reach and on surfaces that will not receive another type of coating. The application is easy and done with the coat of the product interspersed with another type of structuring agent, such as reinforcing screens or specific fabrics for waterproofing.
This system has a lower resistance to abrasion and, therefore, is not suitable for places with a high flow of people and vehicles. It is important to pay attention to the drainage of water in the places where this system will be applied, in order to avoid compromising the waterproofing agent.
Appropriate choice and technical standards
To make the appropriate choice of the best waterproofing system, the other systems that make up the building must be taken into account, such as concrete, grouts and adhesive and coating mortars. To do this, it is necessary to have trained professionals, who will be able to indicate the system that will best suit the construction project.
Proper waterproofing ensures that the best results are obtained on the job. For this, it is essential to follow the rules established by the ABNT - Brazilian Technical Standards Association. There are several regulations that regulate the use of waterproofing and the most important are: NBR 9574/2008 And the NBR 9575/2010.
Therefore, use quality products and hire trained professionals when it comes to performing flexible waterproofing in your construction. In this way, it is possible to guarantee more durability, safety and efficiency in the work.
Blok has a complete line of waterproofing products for various functions. Discover the most suitable products for your construction!
.webp)
![[Free Book] Negative and Positive Pressure Waterproofing](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/5b5694df76451f74367f58e3/65a9d1278079f3bf14823e7e_impermeabilizac%2525CC%2525A7a%2525CC%252583o-pressa%2525CC%252583o-negativa-e-positiva---BLOK.webp)
