TERRACE WATERPROOFING

A common problem in residential buildings is the waterproofing of recessed floors or terraces. The choice of waterproofing material must meet the external conditions to which the terrace is constantly exposed (sudden temperature changes, frost, very high temperatures, etc.). Additionally, the waterproofing selection must not compromise the terrace’s aesthetics, as these parts of the building are used frequently throughout the year. The finishing layers are most often ceramic tiles or some type of decking. There are several technical solutions available:

  1. Polyurethane Coatings over the applied leveling layer (usually a cement screed)

A very simple solution to apply if the existing substrate is in good condition. It prevents moisture and water penetration into the cement screed and eliminates the possibility of ceramic tiles detaching due to excessive moisture in the substrate. The waterproofing cures very quickly and is ready for water exposure within an hour.

The drawback of this technical solution is that it requires suitable climatic conditions (temperature and air humidity) for application.

An additional advantage offered by some manufacturers is that polyurethane coatings can also be used as waterproofing adhesives for ceramic tiles. The first layer of adhesive is applied on the prepared substrate as the primary waterproofing layer, and after 24 hours, ceramic tiles are installed using the second layer.

  1. Waterproofing membranes (PVC, FPO, TPO) under the applied leveling layer

The membrane is extended up the perimeter walls of the terrace to the required height, creating a „bowl effect.“ The execution of this solution is not overly dependent on climatic conditions (provided there is no heavy rainfall and temperatures do not fall below freezing).

A drawback of this technical solution is the need for a „secondary“ waterproofing layer (usually polymer-cement coatings) over the leveling layer to prevent possible detachment of ceramic tiles from the substrate, i.e., the cement screed.

  1. Bituminous membranes under the applied leveling layer

A traditional solution that has existed for decades in local construction. The main drawback is very poor moisture permeability. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the substrate structure is as dry as possible before laying the membrane.

Polyurethane Coatings

Synthetic Membranes

Bituminous Membranes