Check out the best techniques for waterproofing pools

Antonio Neves
Written by
Antonio Neves
Published on
9/3/2024
Updated on
5/6/2024
Check out the best techniques for waterproofing pools

Infiltration and leaks are the nightmares of construction workers. Controlling the effect of humidity in areas that are in direct contact with water can be even worse. A good result requires technique, knowledge and application of the best products. To know How to waterproof swimming pools, you have to roll up your sleeves and understand what the market has to offer.

In this article, we will provide guidelines regarding the most efficient techniques for repairing wet areas, such as swimming pools. If you want to learn how to waterproof pools and similar areas, keep following.

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What are wet areas?

Many do not know, but the service of waterproofing it is so important that there are specific regulations to ensure the complete safety of its execution. They are: NBR 9574/2008, NBR 9575/2010 and NBR 15575/2013. The last mentioned standard determines the guidelines for working in wet areas and wettable, conceptually separating them.

Thus, the wet areas are those where water slides may appear during use, such as bathrooms with showers, swimming pools, reservoirs, water tanks, outdoor areas and service areas. Wettable areas, on the other hand, are areas that only receive water splashes, such as bathrooms without showers, kitchens, toilets and covered balconies.

How to waterproof a pool?

If you've come this far, it's because you want to evolve your learning about how to waterproof a pool. Let's get right to the point.

This type of waterproofing is done at the time of construction by applying a layer of product waterproof on the smoothing mortar on the surface. Some examples of specific techniques and products are polymer mortars and Asphalt blankets.

Before waterproofing the pool, it is important that the entire surface is regulated according to NBR 7200 and that, after curing the mortar, all installed pipes are covered and then the pool is filled, so that the structure can accommodate the weight of the water. This step is essential so that, if there are any problems with the regularization mortar, it is corrected before applying the waterproofing agent.

The waterproofing of the substrate must be done continuously before the installation of the coating. At this time, take the opportunity to waterproof the entire surface, paying special attention to the drains and pool drains.

Speaking of the drain, note that it is always susceptible to rework if the procedures are not performed properly. Therefore, the waterproofing of this area deserves close attention.

It is worth noting that all of these waterproofing systems will wear out over time. There's no getting away, nothing lasts forever. To alleviate the expense, the replacement of the system can be done with the embellishment work, when you think it is necessary to change the coating, or if it comes loose over time.

Waterproofing complete? It doesn't end there. Um good watertightness test will ensure the quality of the work. To do this, simply close all drains and water drainage points on the floor, and fill the pool with water. After 72 hours, check that there have been no leaks.

With the success of the proven test, it's time for adhesive mortar for laying the coating. This application will ensure the gluing of the coating, which must be properly seated.

Care is taken when applying the grout, as it is responsible for preventing water from seeping between the waterproofing and the coating. A good tip is to consult the manufacturer before buying, since the coatings vary in terms of the type of grout necessary and there are specific grouts for swimming pools.

The service must be performed by a professional in the area, able to comply with the recommendations of the manufacturer of the products, considering that these rules may change according to the brand purchased.

What are the existing waterproofing systems?

There are two major groups of standardised waterproofing agents in Brazil. Each type of waterproofing agent has its specific application, which must take into account the waterproofing project and the structural design of the site. But do you know which two systems exist? Keep following up to understand the difference between them.

Flexible system

The flexible system gets its name because it is able to monitor the movement of structures, within the limits stipulated in the project.

Membranes molded on site:

  • polymer mortar
  • asphalt emulsion;
  • acrylic membrane;
  • polyurea membrane;
  • thermoplastic resin;
  • polyurethane membrane.

Prefabricated blankets:

  • asphalt blanket;
  • synthetic membranes.

The flexible system is suitable for places subject to movement and cracking, such as:

  • balconies;
  • terraces and roofs;
  • upper water reservoirs;
  • mixed or precast;
  • massive slabs;
  • large gutters;
  • suspended or buried pools and water features;
  • roof slabs and marquees;
  • cold bathroom floors, kitchens and service areas.

Rigid system

The rigid system gets its name because it uses the following options to waterproof:

  • polymer mortar;
  • waterproof mortar with water repellent additives;
  • crystallizing cement;
  • cement modified with polymer and epoxy resins.

The rigid system is applied in places with stabilized structural load, such as buried water reservoirs and elevator wells; and small structures without changes and with constant temperature, such as galleries, basements and underground pools.

Highly recommended for sealing and eliminating leaks and strongly combating moisture, Blok ST is the ideal product for those who want to know How to waterproof swimming pools. O Blok ST acts as a flexible waterproofing coating perfect for wet areas such as, slab, pool, Baldrame, underpinning, water tank and reservoirs.

What is the best product for waterproofing pools?

Considering that pools, underground or suspended, are structures subject to movement over time, it is always recommended to use waterproofing agents flexible for its waterproofing.

In this way, the waterproofing system will accompany the structure, without any type of leak.

Waterproof only from the inside?

When we think of pool waterproofing, we immediately imagine preventing water from leaking out. Without a doubt, this is the main objective, but not the only one.

In the case of inground pools, we also need to think about waterproofing the outside of the pool. But how is that?

The idea in waterproofing is always the protection of structures, so in this case, we need to think both about protecting them from the inside and from the outside.

This protection from the outside will ensure that the pool structure is not affected by moisture coming from the leaning earth. With this, we will completely protect the pool and prevent it from having pathological manifestations as a result of this infiltration.

What are the benefits of waterproofing?

Proper and professional waterproofing is the best way for those who want to guarantee construction safety in areas exposed to any degree of humidity. We have separated the main advantages of waterproofing. Check it out!

Avoid future problems

A complete waterproofing service, respecting the applications and drying times, as well as applying certified quality products, prevents moisture and water leakage from appearing in the future. Those who neglect these steps may see their work seriously jeopardized with regard to structural stability.

Guarantees economy

It may even seem that dispensing with the waterproofing phases will be cheaper, or even using a rigid waterproofing agent. However, at the end of the day, when problems arise, the account will exit much more expensive than expected. Waterproofing the structure, in the correct way, is a preventive measure that must be taken seriously before problems appear. This thinking bias will prevent disorders and interventions in the work that will cost much more money and rework.

Increases durability

The durability of the construction is also in question. Good waterproofing ensures greater durability of the work, preserving its aesthetics and making it safer. Needless to say, the reputation of the person responsible for the work will be maintained, with good consequences.

With quality products combined with the correct technique, the waterproofing service will have everything to work with extreme quality.

Now that you've seen how to waterproof your pool professionally, Get in touch with us and discover the best solutions for your work.

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