Waterproofing agents and things you might not know

The phenomenon of water leakage not only ruins aesthetics but also seriously affects the structural integrity of a building, increases repair costs, and reduces its lifespan. Therefore, using waterproofing solutions becomes essential to comprehensively protect your home. In this article, we will explore the harms of water leakage, the reasons to choose waterproofing solutions, and the most effective waterproofing methods.

Waterproofing agents and things you might not know

1. The damages caused by leaks
Water leakage is a common issue but poses many serious dangers, affecting both the quality of the construction and human health. Below are the specific consequences that leakage can cause:
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Weakening the structure of concrete and steel, and if this condition persists for a long time, it will lead to cracking, reduced strength, and a shorter lifespan of the structure.
Cracks due to seepage create conditions for moisture and bacteria to penetrate, causing rust on the steel reinforcement inside the concrete.
The walls of the house show yellow stains, peeling paint, or mold, losing their original beauty.
Mold growing on the walls and ceiling leaves an unpleasant smell, creating discomfort for the occupants.
Structures that suffer from leaks often require much higher repair costs compared to preventing them from the beginning.
A house or building with leaks is often valued lower in the real estate market. Buyers are often wary of water leakage issues due to the repair and maintenance costs involved later.

The walls of the house are severely leaking if not waterproofed.
2. Why should waterproofing agents be used?
Waterproofing is not just an option, but a necessity for modern constructions. Using waterproofing agents brings many outstanding benefits, helping to ensure the quality and longevity of the construction. Here are the main reasons why you should use waterproofing agents:
Preventing water infiltration from the outside: Waterproofing agents form a protective layer that helps prevent water from penetrating the surface of concrete, floors, ceilings, or walls.
Protection of steel and concrete: When water cannot penetrate, the internal steel will avoid rusting, helping to maintain the structure's solidity.
Increase the lifespan of the structure: Waterproofing agents help the structure become more resilient against environmental factors such as rain, humidity, or temperature changes.
Limit cracking and shrinkage: Due to the expansion of the material when it comes into contact with water or moisture.
Enhance aesthetics: Keeps wall and ceiling surfaces clean, free from yellow stains, mold, or peeling paint, providing a beautiful and safe living space.
Cost savings on maintenance: Using waterproofing agents helps reduce repair and maintenance costs in the future.
Adaptable to various types of projects: Cement waterproofing paints are suitable for all weather conditions and terrains, providing long-lasting effectiveness.

Using waterproofing materials for construction is an extremely important factor.
3. Common waterproofing methods
Below are the most popular waterproofing methods today, which help ensure the quality and longevity of construction projects:
3.1. Waterproofing with hot-applied Bitumen membrane
This is a type of waterproof membrane that requires high temperatures to soften and adhere to the surface needing waterproofing, commonly used for basements, roofs, and areas under high water pressure.
Advantages:
High durability, suitable for structures subjected to significant water and humidity impact.
Absolute waterproofing capability when constructed according to the correct procedure.
Disadvantages:
The construction process using this method is quite complex and requires high technical skills.
There is a high risk of fire and explosion if the torch is not used properly.

Hot-applied Bitumen waterproofing requires high technical skills.
3.2. Waterproofing with self-adhesive Bitumen membrane
This type of membrane is designed to adhere directly to surfaces without the need for heat, thanks to the self-adhesive layer on the membrane, and is commonly used for residential buildings, factories, or areas that are easy to construct.
Advantages:
This method is easy to implement and time-saving.
No need to use a torch tool, ensure safety during the work process.
Disadvantages:
Adhesion can decrease in areas exposed to excessively high or low temperatures.
The waterproofing effectiveness is not as high as that of hot air membranes in groundwater or high-pressure environments.

Self-adhesive bitumen waterproofing is very easy to install.
3.3. Waterproofing with cement-based waterproofing additives
This method uses waterproofing additives mixed directly into cement or concrete, helping to improve waterproofing properties and enhance durability. This is an extremely simple, effective, and cost-saving waterproofing solution.
Advantages:
The method is easy to implement and suitable for various types of projects.
Increase durability, resist abrasion, and effectively prevent seepage.
Disadvantages:
It is necessary to mix in the correct ratio to ensure effectiveness.
In this segment, you can refer to LEMAN's waterproofing additive product lines with outstanding functionalities such as:
LEMAN Latex A1: Waterproofing additive and bonding agent with shrinkage reduction, enhanced adhesion, and superior waterproofing capabilities. Suitable for thin plaster layers, floors, and walls in contact with drinking water.
LEMAN AT-11 GUARD: Specialized cement waterproof paint, completely prevents water infiltration, suitable for house walls and concrete floors.
LEMAN AT-11 PLUS: An improved product with a formula that enhances durability, easy to apply, suitable for structures frequently exposed to water.
LEMANT AT-15 PRO: Deep waterproofing for special areas such as basements, bathrooms, and swimming pools.

LEMAN's cement-based waterproofing agents
3.4. Polyurethane Waterproofing
Polyurethane is a modern waterproof material widely used due to its elasticity and excellent adhesion. This is a popular method for complex, uneven surfaces.
Advantages:
UV and chemical resistant.
High durability, no cracking when the temperature changes.
Disadvantages:
The cost of this method is higher compared to other methods.
Requires a longer drying time in humid conditions.

Polyurethane waterproofing is suitable for complex surfaces.
3.5. Waterproofing with Epoxy Paint
Epoxy paint not only waterproofs but also creates a protective surface layer against abrasion, scratches, and chemicals. This method is often applied to workshops, industrial floors, or areas exposed to chemicals.
Advantages:
Helps enhance the hardness, durability, and load-bearing capacity of the surface.
Create a beautiful glossy layer on the surface, easy to clean.
Disadvantages:
More difficult to construct on vertical surfaces.
The cost of materials is higher than traditional methods.

Waterproofing with Epoxy paint gives a beautiful glossy surface
4. Why does mixing waterproofing agents with cement yield high effectiveness?
Walls and floors in construction projects are often made of cement and mortar, which are solid inorganic salt compounds. To ensure good adhesion with other materials, it is necessary to use substances with properties similar to cement. The waterproofing agent is developed in the form of a liquid solution that can chemically react with the components in the cement, thereby forming a solid membrane.
This membrane layer has one end firmly bonded to the cement surface due to its chemical similarity. The other end, with its hydrophobic properties, creates an effective protective layer for the structure. This water-repellent layer prevents water infiltration, reducing leakage by preventing water from adhering to or penetrating the surface. This is the mechanism that helps the waterproofing agent provide sustainable protection for walls and floors, especially in harsh weather conditions.
Waterproofing is an essential factor that cannot be overlooked in the construction and protection of structures. With the support of modern waterproofing products from the LEMAN brand, you will completely resolve the issue of leaks, keeping your construction beautiful and durable over time. Please contact LEMAN for free and detailed consultation.