Melbourne’s Leading Remedial Waterproofing Company

Key Points: Waterproofing Balconies Without Removing Tiles

1. Tile Removal is Recommended for Effective Waterproofing
   • Applying a membrane over existing tiles is generally discouraged. It’s best to strip the balcony back to the base, especially if there’s long-term leakage, to assess and repair any structural damage.
2. Importance of Sound Substrate
   • Loose or “drumming” tiles can compromise waterproofing efforts, causing the membrane to detach. A stable, modern base like Scyon board is ideal for supporting the waterproofing process.
3. Rebuilding Process for Optimal Waterproofing
   • Apply a reinforced membrane on the base. Add a screed layer over the membrane to ensure proper water flow to drainage.
4. Misconceptions About Water Flow on Balconies
   • Water doesn’t just run off the tile surface but can seep through grout lines, which shrink and crack over time, allowing water infiltration. A robust membrane beneath the tiles is essential to contain ponding water and prevent leaks.
5. Use of Specialized Materials
   • Submersible adhesives are required to withstand prolonged water exposure. Membranes should be capable of handling ponding, like Liquid Rubber, designed for high water exposure in ponds and pools. Many standard membranes degrade under ponding water, emphasizing the need for suitable materials.
6. Importance of Understanding the Waterproofing System
   • Selecting the right materials and using correct techniques ensures durability and effectiveness, protecting against potential leaks and degradation over time. For more information please see our website: https://www.waterproofingfew.com.au

For more waterproofing FAQ videos click the link below: HOW TO WATERPROOF in CONSTRUCTION – FAQs

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Best Practices by Findlay-Evans Waterproofing for Basement & Retaining Walls

1. Key Focus: “Live” Joint Protection
   • Primary area for leaks: the joint between the slab or footing and the wall.
   • This “live” joint is meticulously treated to prevent future leaks.
2. Methodology
   • Hands-On Detailing: Applicators work hands-on, thoroughly brushing material into the joint.
   • Multiple Coats: Two to three coats of waterproofing membrane are applied to ensure durability.
   • Reinforcement Barrier: A polyethylene fabric is embedded in liquid rubber over clean junctions for added strength.
   • Overall Membrane Coating: Final membrane application adds a total of five to six layers, creating a robust waterproof barrier.
3. Protection Sheet Application
   • Sticky-Back Material: A peel-and-stick protection sheet is applied to prevent membrane shifting during backfilling.
   • Purpose: Protects against punctures from vines, stones, and debris that can damage the membrane.
4. Common Mistakes
   • Insufficient Protection: Using inadequate protection sheets leads to membrane leaks.
   • Improper Backfilling Materials: Scoria or crushed rock can damage membranes, causing leaks.
5. Importance of Attention to Detail
   • Ensuring the membrane is protected and properly applied is essential, as inadequate protection or poor materials can compromise waterproofing effectiveness, leading to costly leaks and repairs.

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Key Points: Types of Waterproofing Membranes

1. Main Types of Waterproofing Membranes
   • Sheet Waterproof Membranes include:
     1. Torch-On Membranes: Welded with heat torches.
     2. Bituminous Sheet Membranes: Bonded with adhesives.
   •  Liquid Applied Membranes: Can be applied with spray, brush, or trowel for flexibility and seamless coverage.
2. Liquid Rubber as a Preferred Option
   • Properties: Elastomeric, seamless, and flexible.
   • Application: One-coat spray-on system suitable for roofs, balconies, retaining walls, and basements.
3. Application Suitability
   • Roofs, Balconies, Retaining Walls, Basements: Liquid Rubber is particularly effective for these areas due to its flexibility and durability.
4. Choosing the Right Membrane
   • Selection should be based on specific needs and applications, as each membrane type has strengths suited to different environments and requirements.

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Key Points: Waterproofing Footings of Basements and Retaining Walls

1. Key Focus: “Live” Joint Protection
   • The joint between the slab or footing and wall, known as the “live” joint, is highly prone to leaks and requires careful treatment.
2. FEW Methodology for Waterproofing
   • Hands-On Detailing: Applicators meticulously brush the material into the joint.
   • Multiple Coats: Two to three coats of waterproofing membrane are applied.
   • Reinforcement Barrier: Polyethylene fabric reinforcement is added in clean junctions, embedded in liquid rubber.
   • Overall Membrane Coverage: Total of five to six coats on the joint for maximum protection.
3. Protection Sheet Application
   • Sticky-Back Material: A peel-and-stick protection sheet adheres to the membrane, preventing shifting during backfilling.
   • Purpose: Shields the membrane from potential punctures by vines, stones, and debris.
4. Common Mistakes in Waterproofing
   • Inadequate Protection Sheets: Using subpar sheets can lead to leaks.
   • Improper Backfill Materials: Using materials like scoria or crushed rock can damage the membrane.
5. Emphasis on Proper Membrane Protection
   • Detailed attention and correct materials are crucial to prevent leaks, highlighting the often-overlooked need for membrane protection during installation.

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Key Points: Advantages of Spray-On Liquid Waterproofing Membranes

1. Flexibility
   • Liquid membranes are elastomeric and highly flexible, allowing them to move and adapt with the building, unlike rigid sheet membranes.
2. Broad Applicability
   • Effective in areas where sheet membranes cannot be applied, including complex surfaces and around penetrations like balconies and roofs.
3. Strong Bonding Ability
   • Forms a durable, long-lasting bond to surfaces, sealing and waterproofing thoroughly, preventing de-bonding issues that may occur with sheet membranes.
4. Speed and Efficiency
   • Quick application with spray equipment allows large coverage—up to 1000m² in a day under optimal weather conditions.
   • Fast-curing properties provide a quick waterproof seal.
5. Durability and Leak Detection
   • Provides a robust, long-life waterproofing solution.
   • Simplifies leak detection, as any punctures directly indicate leak locations, making repairs straightforward.
6. Suitable for Various Applications
   • Ideal for commercial and industrial applications on balconies, roofs, retaining walls, basements, and concrete walls, especially in areas requiring durable, seamless coverage.

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