Waterproofing

Industrial Waterproofing

Industrial waterproofing
Written by David J

Table of Contents

We are now emerging from the most significant recession in our lifetime, and commercial construction is significantly better than during the slowdown. The deadlines for the implementation of projects have become more stringent. Budgets for the construction of buildings and facilities are being tightened.

The codes emphasize energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, durability, and reliability of building structures. Land prices force developers to “fill in” areas where there is high groundwater or industrial chemical pollution, and this, in turn, serves as an impetus for the development of innovative systems to protect buildings and structures from water penetration and exposure.

Features of waterproofing of industrial buildings

Today, manufacturers of waterproofing materials for protection from water and aggressive environments have developed new products that solve problems with the construction of industrial structures in difficult conditions, such as high groundwater and the presence of an aggressive environment.

The leading positions are occupied by several new classes of polymers: silicones, silanes, polyureas, and others. For example, compositions are now available that offer an “instant” polymerization (curing) time capable of achieving the desired thickness of the waterproofing coating in one pass. These new industrial products also have high-performance characteristics— adhesion, tensile coefficient, etc. This is important for building construction.

When protecting industrial facilities, it is necessary to pay attention to the waterproofing of the following structures:

  1. Waterproofing of the foundation;
  2. Waterproofing of the walls of buildings located below ground level;
  3. Sealing of seams;
  4. Sealing of communication entry points;
  5. Waterproofing of the roof.

For the arrangement of high-quality and durable waterproofing of large industrial structures and buildings, it is recommended to use effective waterproofing systems with the following qualities:

  • Application rate. Some materials such as Liquid rubber, are applied by spraying, which allows them to be applied to areas of 500-700m2 per day, which reduces construction time and is very important when performing work on a large construction site.
  • Elasticity. The high coefficient of elasticity of the applied material is very important, since it is thanks to it that the waterproofing coating stretches, and it is not disturbed in time by shrinkage or building dynamics.
  • No suture. Seams — are the weakest points in any waterproofing system and their absence is the key to reliability and durability of protection against water penetration. 
  • Adhesion. The material should have 100% of adhesion to the surface so that no cavities and voids are formed under it, through which water can pass from one place to another.

Waterproofing of industrial facilities and their types

The complexity of the industrial waterproofing products currently available creates a new level of water protection and a new level of productivity for waterproofing firms.
with the help of modern technologies, contractors can perform more complex work during the construction of a building, and reduce labor costs. Weather-related delays can be eliminated or significantly reduced. Further, some types of industrial facilities:

  • Industrial structures, factories, buildings, and multifunctional complexes – All these projects are on an industrial scale and require an appropriate approach to issues related to their waterproofing.
  • Underground parking lots and multi-level parking lots– Waterproofing of parking and underground parking. Multi-level underground parking is one of the most difficult structures for performing waterproofing works, as it is located below ground level and has many features.
  • Hydraulic structures – Have constant contact with water and require special attention to the issue of their protection.
  • Buried tanks – There are several types of tanks, for example, fire technical, for drinking water, etc… Waterproofing of tanks should take into account their purpose, location, and what they will be filled with (water or chemicals).
  • Tunnels – are located underground and are subject to constant exposure to water, which makes the waterproofing of tunnels quite difficult.

When building designers and general contractors are worried about providing maximum protection and faster turnover with tighter budgets, they can take advantage of the latest waterproofing materials in the industry. Further, you can get acquainted with some of these materials.

Materials for industrial waterproofing, their characteristics, and types

Waterproofing — is a very important element in the construction of new facilities. Waterproofing technologies are developing in their numerous segments. New materials and know-how help to create structures, projects, and buildings that are more efficient and economical than ever before. Such innovative technologies include materials such as:

  1. Single-component and double-component liquid rubber – liquid rubber has several advantages, such as 100% of adhesion (adhesion) with concrete, brick, and rolled surfaced membranes. Liquid rubber is used for waterproofing foundations and walls of many industrial buildings, warehouses, hangars, and factories.
  2. Polyurethane waterproofing – Forms a UV-resistant coating without seams and with 100% adhesion to the surface. Polyurethane compounds are used to insulate tanks, industrial roofs of warehouses, factories, and other commercial and industrial buildings.
  3. Polyurea – An expensive coating is mainly used to protect roofs and technical tanks.
  4. Injection waterproofing – Used mainly from inside a room or building to eliminate leaks and perform repairs.

Calculator or the cost of waterproofing industrial buildings

About the author

David J

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