Waterproofing membranes are an essential part of protecting your home or building from water damage. However, even with the best materials and installation techniques, waterproofing membranes can fail. In this article, we will discuss the top 15 reasons why waterproofing membranes fail and how to prevent these issues from occurring.
We will look into the following reasons why waterproofing membranes fail:
- Improper surface preparation
- Using the wrong type of membrane
- Not using enough membrane
- Using damaged or expired membrane
- Poorly installed membrane
- Not sealing edges and penetrations
- Not inspecting and maintaining the membrane
- Exposure to chemicals
- Exposure to UV light
- Not allowing for expansion and movement
- Dust, oil, or other contaminants on surface
- Insufficient overlap
- Punctures and tears
- UV degradation
- Improper installation
- Inadequate drainage
- Insufficient seam welding
- Exposure to high temperatures
- Not considering traffic or load
- Using subpar materials
1. Improper Surface Preparation
One of the most common reasons for waterproofing membrane failure is improper surface preparation. Before the membrane is installed, the surface must be cleaned of any dirt, debris, or old coatings. Any cracks or holes in the surface must also be repaired. Failing to properly prepare the surface can lead to the membrane not adhering properly and eventually failing.
2. Using the Wrong Type of Membrane
Another common reason for waterproofing membrane failure is using the wrong type of membrane for the specific application. Different types of membranes have different properties and are designed to be used in specific situations. Using the wrong type of membrane can lead to the membrane not performing as intended and ultimately failing.
3. Not Using Enough Membrane
A third reason for waterproofing membrane failure is not using enough membrane. If the membrane is not applied thick enough, it will not have enough strength and flexibility to withstand the movement and expansion of the surface it is protecting. This can lead to the membrane cracking and ultimately failing.
4. Using Damaged or Expired Membrane
Using damaged or expired membrane is another common reason for waterproofing membrane failure. Membranes have a shelf life and should not be used after they have expired. Additionally, if the membrane is damaged, it will not perform as intended and will likely fail.
5. Poorly Installed Membrane
Poor installation is another common reason for waterproofing membrane failure. The membrane must be installed according to the manufacturer\’s instructions to ensure proper performance. If the membrane is not installed correctly, it will not perform as intended and will likely fail.
6. Not Sealing Edges and Penetrations
Failing to seal the edges and penetrations of the waterproofing membrane is another common reason for failure. Water can seep through these areas and cause damage to the membrane and the surface it is protecting.
7. Not Inspecting and Maintaining the Membrane
Not inspecting and maintaining the waterproofing membrane is another common reason for failure. The membrane should be inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Any damage or wear should be repaired immediately to prevent the membrane from failing.
8. Exposure to Chemicals
Exposure to chemicals is another reason for waterproofing membrane failure. Certain chemicals can react with the membrane and cause it to degrade or fail. It is important to ensure that the membrane is compatible with any chemicals that may come into contact with it.
9. Exposure to UV Light
Exposure to UV light can also cause waterproofing membrane failure. UV light can cause the membrane to become brittle and crack over time. It is important to protect the membrane from UV light to prevent this from occurring.
10. Not Allowing for Expansion and Movement
Not allowing for expansion and movement is another reason for waterproofing membrane failure. The surface the membrane is protecting will expand and contract with temperature changes and the movement of the building. The membrane must be flexible enough to accommodate this movement to prevent it from cracking and failing.
11. Improper Surface Preparation
One of the most common reasons for waterproofing failure is improper surface preparation. The surface must be clean, dry, and free of debris before the membrane is applied. Any dust, oil, or other contaminants can weaken the bond between the membrane and the surface, leading to leaks and failure.
12. Insufficient Overlap
Another common reason for waterproofing failure is insufficient overlap. The membrane must overlap the previous layer by at least 2 inches to ensure a secure seal. If there is not enough overlap, water can seep through the gaps and cause leaks.
13. Punctures and Tears
Punctures and tears in the membrane can also lead to failure. These can be caused by a variety of factors, including construction equipment, foot traffic, and even weather. It is important to regularly inspect the membrane for any damage and repair it as soon as possible.
14. UV Degradation
UV radiation from the sun can cause the membrane to degrade over time. This can weaken the membrane and make it more prone to leaks and failure. To avoid this, it is important to choose a membrane that is specifically designed to resist UV degradation.
15. Improper Installation
Improper installation is another common reason for waterproofing failure. The membrane must be installed according to the manufacturer\’s instructions and by a trained professional. Failure to do so can lead to improper overlap, punctures, and other issues that can cause the membrane to fail.
16. Inadequate Drainage
Inadequate drainage can also cause waterproofing failure. The membrane must be installed in such a way that water can flow away from the structure and into a drainage system. If this is not done properly, water can accumulate and seep through the membrane, leading to leaks and failure.
17. Insufficient Seam Welding
Insufficient seam welding can also cause waterproofing failure. The seams of the membrane must be welded together to create a secure seal. If the seams are not welded properly, water can seep through and cause leaks.
18. Inadequate Slope
Inadequate slope is another common reason for waterproofing failure. The surface must be sloped in such a way that water can flow away from the structure and into a drainage system. If the slope is not adequate, water can accumulate and seep through the membrane, leading to leaks and failure.
19. Chemical Exposure
Chemical exposure can also cause waterproofing failure. The membrane must be able to withstand exposure to chemicals commonly found in construction, such as solvents, acids, and alkalis. If the membrane is not resistant to these chemicals, it can become weakened and more prone to leaks and failure.
20. Lack of Regular Maintenance
Finally, a lack of regular maintenance can cause waterproofing failure. The membrane must be inspected regularly for any damage, punctures, or tears. Any repairs must be made as soon as possible to prevent leaks and failure.
In conclusion, waterproofing membranes can fail for a variety of reasons, including improper surface preparation, insufficient overlap, punctures and tears, UV degradation, improper installation, inadequate drainage, insufficient seam welding, inadequate slope, chemical exposure and more. Get a professional waterproofing company to have a look at your waterproofing.