Concrete Slab Waterproofing: Definition, Types, and Benefits

Waterproofing a concrete slab is a crucial step in protecting the building's surface from the risk of leaks and water seepage. Although still not widely known, this waterproof coating technique plays a major role in maintaining the durability of various types of constructions, both for residential and commercial buildings.

By coating the slab using special materials, the surface becomes waterproof and more resistant to extreme weather. To understand more about the definition, types, and benefits of concrete slab waterproofing, check out the following explanation.

What Is Concrete Slab Waterproofing?

Concrete slab waterproofing is a technique or procedure that aims to prevent leaks in the concrete slab by applying a leak-proof coating. This layer works by closing or coating the pores on the surface of the concrete slab so that water cannot enter and permeate.

This procedure is generally carried out in areas that are prone to leaks, such as concrete roofs, bathrooms, balconies, walls, basements, and groundwater tanks.

Types of Concrete Slab Waterproofing

It is important to know the various types of waterproofing available so you can adjust them to the conditions and functions of the building. Here are some types of waterproofing that are commonly used in concrete slabs:

1. Integral Waterproofing

Integral waterproofing is a leak-proof mixture that is directly inserted into the concrete mix, increasing water resistance by 30%, strengthening the structure so that it does not crack easily, and is commonly used in swimming pools and basements.

2. Self-Adhesive Flashband

Self-adhesive flashband is a type of two-layer sheet-shaped leak-proof coating. The first layer functions as an adhesive, while the second layer is responsible for controlling water from seeping into the building surface, thus preventing leaks.

3. Crystallizing Waterproofing

Crystallizing waterproofing is a waterproofing method that can be applied to the concrete surface or mixed directly into the concrete mixture before casting.

This concrete slab waterproofing material permanently turns concrete into crystals, making it resistant to water seepage. This technique is commonly used for high-pressure concrete floors and walls.

4. Waterproofing Coating

Waterproofing coating is a paint-like anti-leaking coating with a thicker and chewier texture that is applied using a brush or roller. It is commonly used on concrete gutters, water tanks, concrete roofs, toilets, balconies, and sidewalls.

Based on the base material, coatings are divided into three types, namely:

Cement-based coating: Consists of two components, namely cement-like powder and liquid. Suitable for areas such as toilets, balconies, or medium-sized water tanks.
Acrylic-based coating: Only one component, resembles paint but is more viscous. Diluted with water and has better elasticity than cement-based coating.
Solvent-based coating: A one-component liquid that needs to be diluted with thinner. This type has excellent elasticity, making it ideal for swimming pools and large-scale building roofs.

5. Waterproofing Membrane

Waterproofing membrane is an anti-drip coating in the form of sheets or rolls that are divided into two types, namely fiber and polyester. Polyester membrane is usually more expensive but more durable than fiber and is often used for the roofs of large buildings.

Membrane installation is quite complicated and should be done by a professional. If the installation is improper, leaks can occur. Based on how it is applied, the membrane is divided into:

Torching membrane: Installed by burning the adhesive layer so that it sticks to the substrate.
Cold-applied membrane: Can be applied without burning because the adhesive layer is self-adhesive.

Benefits of Concrete Slab Waterproofing

Although often neglected, concrete slab waterproofing has many important benefits for buildings. The application of this leak-proof layer has several important benefits, such as:

Protects the concrete slab from leaks by creating a waterproof layer that extends the life of the roof and reduces the risk of damage due to water seepage.
Prevents the concrete from rotting quickly due to water ingress and sun exposure, thus maintaining the strength and durability of the building structure.
Reduces renovation and repair costs by preventing damage caused by concrete slab leaks, while saving time and labor.
Increase property value by keeping the building in good condition and free from damaging water seepage.
Protects concrete slab surfaces from damage such as mold, mildew, and weather-related cracking, because it protects from water and UV rays.
Beautify the appearance of the concrete slab with a choice of waterproofing coating color, making it suitable for rooftops or activity areas on top of buildings.

Tips for Concrete Slab Waterproofing to Prevent Leaking

To ensure that your concrete slab waterproofing functions optimally and lasts for a long time, there are several important tips that need to be considered. Here are some important tips that you can apply.

1. Patch Cracks

Before applying the waterproofing layer, it is very important to patch all gaps or cracks in the concrete slab using cement or special patching products. If left untreated, these cracks will become a pathway for water to enter, making the waterproofing ineffective and not durable.

2. Clean Before Applying Waterproofing

Before applying waterproofing, make sure the concrete slab area is completely clean. After the cement patches on the cracks have dried, clean the surface of dust, oil, or other dirt. This cleaning is important so that the waterproofing layer can stick perfectly and function optimally.

3. Apply Waterproofing

Once the concrete slab surface is ready, start applying the waterproofing. Make sure that the product you are using requires a primer layer to stick perfectly. Apply waterproofing in several layers. For maximum results, paint each layer in a different direction, for example, the first layer from north to south, then the second layer from west to east, and so on.

4. Choose the Right Product

For optimal concrete slab waterproofing results, use high-quality products that are specifically designed for concrete slabs.

Although the investment may be larger at the beginning, choosing the right product will greatly help you save on repair costs and prevent damage due to leaks in the future, especially since concrete slabs are directly exposed to heat and rain.

5. Use Expert Services or Labor

Considering the complexity of the work, you may have difficulty doing the concrete slab waterproofing alone.

For efficient and maximum results, it is highly recommended to use the services of experts who understand the standards and procedures for waterproofing concrete slabs correctly. Workmanship that is not up to standard can make waterproofing prone to failure.

6. Check Periodically

To anticipate leaks, check the concrete slab regularly. This is important to quickly identify and address any cracks or damage, even in areas that are rarely seen. Pay particular attention to the sides of the concrete slab, which are often the starting point of cracks.

Things to Avoid in the Concrete Slab Waterproofing Process

To maximize the longevity of your concrete slab waterproofing, avoid the following common mistakes:

Not covering after application: Always cover the concrete slab with a tarp or other cover after waterproofing is complete. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause the film to crack.
Using waterproofing products for skim coat, plaster, or grout: Waterproofing products have different functions and viscosities than skim coat, plaster, or grout, so do not use them as a substitute.
Not following product usage rules: Always follow the instructions for use and mix proportions indicated on the waterproofing product packaging to ensure the quality of the mixture is up to standard.
Only applying one coat: For optimal results, apply a minimum of two or more layers of waterproofing.
Ignoring corner areas: Don't forget the often hidden corner areas, as these are the parts that are prone to cracking and potentially causing leaks.

That is a complete explanation of concrete slab waterproofing, ranging from definition, type, to its benefits for building durability. Although problems such as seepage and damp walls are often considered trivial, their impact can damage the building structure in the long run.

To prevent this from happening, you need to choose building materials that are not only strong but also have optimal waterproofing capabilities. One solution is to use Semen Merah Putih Watershield, a super premium multipurpose cement equipped with Water Repellent Technology.

This product is able to provide Triple Protection against water seepage from outside, inside, and soil or capillary water, so it is ideal for applications on concrete slabs, foundations, castings, and skim coat, and has many advantages over ordinary cement.

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