What Does
Waterproofing Membrane Mean?
A waterproofing membrane is a thin layer of material used to prevent water from contacting another material that it is placed over. Waterproofing membranes may be adhesive or simply laid on top of the material they are supposed to protect. Waterproofing membranes are made from many different materials and are commercially available in various sizes and thicknesses.
Waterproofing membranes are used for many applications, such as covering concrete while it is being formed to prevent water from compromising the structural integrity of the concrete, or coated on products that are submerged under water where corrosion is a concern.
Corrosionpedia Explains Waterproofing Membrane
There are several different types of waterproofing membranes, including:
- Cementitious coatings are polymer coatings that are sprayed or rolled on. They are commonly used in water treatment plants.
- Asphalt coatings are commonly used on cement.
- Polyurethane waterproof membranes are frequently used on flat roofs.
Care must be taken when waterproofing membranes are applied to a substrate. It is important to know what substrates do and do not work well with waterproofing membranes. It is also necessary to give consideration to the environment where the waterproofing membrane will be applied because some membranes are very sensitive to moisture during the application phase and will be ineffective if not applied under the proper conditions.