Water Proofing of Concrete

 

Water Proofing of Concrete

One of the most common problem that occurs in concrete structure is Dampness, seepage or leakage. Water proofing the concrete, particularly for roof slabs and bathroom floors is highly advisable. Concrete is porous and, if not waterproofed, absorbs water, waterborne contaminants and chemicals that can cause deterioration. If you want to protect your concrete and ensure it has a long, serviceable life, waterproofing is essential. Let’s see the methods to execute it effectively.

There are several methods of providing water proofing to concrete surfaces. Let us now see a method of membrane coating, called Elastomeric Membrane Coating. The water proof coating using ‘Seal and Dry’ Cement, which are easily available in the market, based water proofing compound is explained:

• In case of sunken slabs, bathroom floors and water tanks, all works like grooving, piping, chipping and patchworks should be completed before application. 
• The surface should be cleaned thoroughly to remove all loosely adhered material and washed with clean portable water so as to remove dust. 
• The surface should be free from oil, grease and algae etc. The surface should be dried before application of the product.
• Most of the Seal and Dry products require 30% to 35% of water by weight of the powder for making a food application mix. 
• A small quantity of water is to be poured into the mixing container followed by the ‘Seal and Dry’ and then the remaining quantity of water. 
• It shall be mixed thoroughly to get uniform, thick and slurry preferably, by using mechanical stirrer. 
• The material should be consumed within two hours. The application can be done by using a brush with soft bristles.
• Water proofing coating is applied in two coats, with a gap of two hours between the two coats. The second coat must be applied perpendicular to the first coat.
• When applying the membrane coating, care shall be taken to treat the joint of slabs and wall properly. 
• The portion of the wall to a height of 250 millimetres from the junction of wall and slab shall also be coated with the product.