When it comes to the interior waterproofing of your residential or commercial building, there are generally two main options: liquid membrane waterproofing and sheet membrane waterproofing. While they might sound similar, there are quite a few differences that can determine which one is right (or wrong) for your particular building. Before you make a decision, it is important that you are properly informed when it comes to the strengths of each system. Here is a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each type that should give you peace of mind when you make your choice.
What Is The Difference?
Before you start looking at the pros and cons of each, it is important to establish what the major difference between the two types is. Liquid membrane waterproofing is done by applying a liquid material similar in texture to paint to the area you want to waterproof. You then must leave it to dry before applying a second coat over the top of the initial coat, and sometimes a third or even fourth coat is necessary. Sheet membrane, however, comes in prefabricated sections that are simply laid down and bonded to the surface you want. If liquid membrane is similar to paint, then sheet waterproofing is reminiscent of wallpaper.
Sheet Membrane Waterproofing
There are a few main advantages of sheet membrane waterproofing that are fairly easy to spot such as the ease of application, the promise of an even surface with no bumps or potholes and the promise of safety from any structural problems that can affect waterproofing, such as cracks in the concrete beneath it. On the other hand, sheet membrane can be quite unwieldy to use, especially in tight areas. It is also a lot more expensive, and applying it without a professional is a recipe for disaster.
Liquid Membrane Waterproofing
Probably the more popular of the two types, liquid membrane waterproofing is great because you can easily choose exactly how much area of your bathroom, garage or kitchen that you want to waterproof. There is no need to spend time cutting out sections of a sheet; simply apply, leave to dry and reapply. It is also the more budget-friendly option, and when done right by a professional, there is virtually no risk or difference between that of the sheet membrane. The only problem is you will pay more in labour costs, due to the length of time needed to apply it. Still, you will more than likely come out ahead financially, and there are ways to touch up problems with liquid waterproofing while your options to fix sheet membrane waterproofing are limited.
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