Liquid Applied Waterproofing Frequently Asked Questions from GCP

Liquid applied waterproofing is a fast-growing market. Globally, liquid applied waterproofing is projected to experience a compounded annual growth rate of 8.7% through 2025, due to cost efficiency and high levels of performance. Read on to learn more about liquid applied waterproofing membranes.

1. What are the advantages of liquid waterproofing?

Contractors find liquid applied membranes advantageous for many reasons, including:

• Effectiveness. Liquid applied waterproofing membranes are typically spray or hand applied onto a substrate, and cure to form a solid material. Because they form one single membrane, there are no seams. This is an advantage since seams are typically the most vulnerable areas where water can penetrate.
• Speed of application. It is usually much faster to apply a liquid than to place sheet applied membranes.
• Ease of detailing. Liquid applied waterproofing is especially helpful in areas where there are many details and penetrations. Instead of having to cut sheet-applied membranes to fit each detail, the waterproofing applicator simply sprays or rolls on the waterproofing material.

2. What should I look for when evaluating liquid waterproofing solutions?

Not all liquid waterproofing systems are the same. They are made of different materials, each with their own properties. Key questions to ask include:

• What preparation is needed prior to applying the liquid waterproofing?
• Is the waterproofing membrane sprayed or hand applied in one coat or several?
• Does the waterproofing membrane require any reinforcement? (Some products require fleece reinforcement.)
• What is the cure time? (The faster the cure time, the quicker you can move the project along.)
• Is the waterproofing membrane UV resistant?
• What is the product's temperature tolerance? (i.e., what are the limitations on the application temperatures?)

3. How do you determine whether to use spray applied or hand applied liquid waterproofing?

GCP's experienced Field Services team can help you make that decision. Typically on small jobs or in confined spaces, it is easier to hand apply liquid waterproofing. For large jobs, it is often best to use a spray to help accelerate project completion.

4. How do you make sure the liquid you're applying goes on thick enough?

Some products like Aquagard M UVR liquid waterproofing are self-leveling material and applied using notched trowels, squeegees, or gauged rakes. This ensures proper thickness is achieved. An applicator or inspector will also always confirm thickness by doing spot checks with a wet film thickness gauge during application.

5. What training is needed to apply liquid membranes?

Chemspray 690 and 790 are sprayable liquid waterproofing, which should only be applied by experienced, trained contractors. Effective liquid waterproofing application requires adequate surface preparation of the substrate. Failure to properly prepare the substrate will negatively impact the waterproofing performance. GCP typically provides onsite training and runs a national training several times a year.

Learn more about GCP's liquid waterproofing solutions at gcpat.com.au.