Five things about waterproofing
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Waterproofing
When people think about waterproofing, they often imagine a quick coat of paint or a sealant applied just before tiling. In reality, effective waterproofing is a critical performance layer that protects structures, finishes, and even occupant health for years to come.
Whether you’re a DIY renovator or a construction professional, these five lesser-known facts might change the way you think about keeping water out.
1. Waterproofing Isn’t Just for Bathrooms
Bathrooms and wet rooms are the obvious candidates, but waterproofing also plays a vital role in:
- Balconies and terraces
- Basements and retaining walls
- Roofs
- Beneath concrete floors and slabs
Water damage doesn’t always come from standing water. Moisture vapour can migrate through substrates, causing deterioration, mould growth, and structural issues over time. The smartest approach is to waterproof before damage occurs.
2. Not All Waterproofing Systems Are Flexible
Buildings are not static. Temperature changes, structural movement, and natural settlement can cause cracks to form. If a waterproofing layer cannot accommodate this movement, it will fail.
Flexibility and crack-bridging capability are just as important as water resistance. Waterproof Blue is designed with high crack-bridging properties, allowing it to flex and adapt while maintaining a continuous waterproof seal.
3. Corner Reinforcements Aren’t Always Necessary
Traditional waterproofing systems often require additional tapes or corner reinforcements, increasing time, labour, and cost. Modern liquid-applied membranes have evolved.
Advanced products like Waterproof Blue are engineered to seal complex details, junctions, and corners without additional reinforcement, delivering a continuous and reliable waterproof barrier.
4. Poor Waterproofing Can Affect Your Health
Waterproofing failures don’t just damage buildings; they can impact health. Moisture trapped behind finishes creates the perfect environment for hidden mould growth.
- Respiratory issues
- Allergies
- Worsening asthma and other conditions
Proper waterproofing is as much about protecting people as it is about protecting materials.
5. Waterproofing Is Only as Good as the Preparation
Even the best waterproofing system will fail if the surface beneath is not properly prepared. Dusty, greasy, or uneven substrates prevent good adhesion.
Professionals always focus on preparation, using the correct primer and applying multiple coats to form a seamless membrane
Choosing the Right Waterproofing Product for the Job
Not all waterproofing challenges are the same. At Intelligent Membranes, each waterproofing solution is designed for specific applications.
Poseidon – Best for bathrooms and internal wet areas. Provides flexible waterproofing behind tiles and finishes.
Waterproof Blue Liquid DPM – Ideal as a replacement damp proof membrane beneath concrete floors and slabs.
The GOAT – Designed for roofing and exposed external areas, delivering durable and weather-resistant waterproofing.
