Waterproofing – Frequently Asked Questions

Waterproofing – In This Article, You Will Learn:

• What is waterproofing?
• What is the purpose of waterproofing?
• When should waterproofing be performed?
• Types of waterproofing
• Waterproofing of foundations and basements
• Waterproofing of roofs
• Waterproofing of bathrooms
• Waterproofing of balconies/terraces
• Which type of waterproofing should you choose?
• Where is waterproofing applied?
• How much does waterproofing cost?
• Which waterproofing materials should you choose?
• Where to buy waterproofing materials? (Kraków, Wieliczka, Bochnia, Olkusz, Chrzanów, Katowice, Sosnowiec, Bytom, Chorzów)

What Is Waterproofing?

Waterproofing is one of the essential steps in constructing a safe and durable home. It protects the building’s structure, facade, and interiors from the harmful effects of water and moisture. It’s important to remember that water acts as a carrier of substances (such as salts) that can have a destructive impact on the insulation itself and the elements it protects. Aggressive chemical compounds in water—resulting from the natural decay of plants, chemical reactions, or mineral salts found in soil and fertilizers—penetrate the ground and affect the foundations.

However, this issue isn’t limited to foundations. The cyclical freezing and thawing of water throughout the year also damages hollow blocks, bricks, plaster, and paint coatings.

Waterproofing should also be applied to roofs (including green roofs, flat roofs, pitched roofs, and ballast roofs), basements, wet rooms (such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and spa rooms), balconies or terraces, external stairs, and garages to ensure comprehensive protection against water-related damage.

What Is the Purpose of Waterproofing?

A building should be protected from water, moisture, and the substances they carry. The harmful effects of water and moisture can lead to structural damage as well as the growth of mold, fungi, and infestations. Proper waterproofing during construction ensures long-term protection. Conversely, the absence of waterproofing or poorly executed waterproofing often results in costly repairs, which can far exceed the cost of proper waterproofing during the building phase.

The crystallization of salts and the cyclic freezing and thawing of water—along with the resulting damage to construction materials—are additional reasons to invest in high-quality waterproofing materials and effective foundation protection technologies for your dream home.

Waterproofing applied during construction prevents dampness in the building, while waterproofing an existing structure can eliminate moisture and its visible effects, such as peeling and cracked plaster, mold, and fungi. Properly waterproofed walls will remain durable for decades, ensuring a safe and long-lasting structure.

When Should Waterproofing Be Done?

Waterproofing is a fundamental construction requirement and should ideally be carried out during the building phase. However, each year, many people report new damages linked to faulty or insufficient waterproofing. If water and moisture are not addressed in time, they can lead to serious structural issues.

Faulty waterproofing can be difficult to detect at first glance, with its effects often becoming visible only after a prolonged period. Common signs of damp walls include stains on plaster, salt deposits, peeling paint, detached or cracked tiles, and crumbling plaster. These damages are most frequently observed on basement walls, lower sections of ground-floor walls, and occasionally on higher levels.

In damp rooms, you may notice a persistent sense of moisture, a cold atmosphere, and an unpleasant, musty smell typically associated with basements.

Types of Waterproofing

Waterproofing materials can be categorized based on how the waterproofing layers are applied:

• Vertical waterproofing: For external walls and foundation walls.
• Horizontal waterproofing: For foundations, floors, and roofs.

Another classification is based on the type of threat:

• Damp-proofing: Protects against moisture.
• Waterproofing: Protects against water exerting hydrostatic pressure.

Additionally, waterproofing is often described as:

• Lightweight waterproofing: Protects against moisture penetration.
• Medium waterproofing: Shields against direct rainwater, capillary water, and water seeping into horizontal or vertical barriers.
• Heavy-duty waterproofing: Defends against water exerting pressure.

Waterproofing materials are also grouped by their composition into the following categories:

• Bituminous materials
• Mineral-based materials
• Hybrid materials
• Synthetic materials

Types of Waterproofing

The choice of a waterproofing system depends on the area where it will be applied (e.g., foundations, bathrooms, roofs, basements, garages, balconies, terraces, pools) and the level of exposure to water and moisture in that location.

Water and moisture pose risks to a building not only in the form of rain, snow, and fog. For foundation waterproofing, it’s crucial to consider the fluctuating groundwater levels throughout the year. If you’re unsure about which type of waterproofing to choose, it’s recommended to opt for waterproofing against water pressure (heavy-duty waterproofing), which provides significantly better protection compared to damp-proofing.

Waterproofing Foundations and Basements

Every construction project should include a soil analysis and recommendations for waterproofing the building's underground sections. If your house has a basement, proper waterproofing for it is equally essential.

Modern waterproofing materials available on the market can fully protect a building’s underground parts from water damage. Innovative technologies allow for effective application in a wide range of conditions and are characterized by their ease of use and fast application.

Materials used for waterproofing underground parts of a building can be categorized into:

• Bituminous materials: Solutions, emulsions, asphalt-based compounds, polymer-bitumen sealing masses (KMB masses), roofing felt.
• Mineral-based materials: Bentonites, micro-mortars.
• Hybrid materials: Next-generation sealants combining the advantages of bituminous and mineral waterproofing.
• Synthetic materials: Films, membranes, polymer dispersion sealants (commonly referred to as liquid membranes), resin coatings.

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Waterproofing Roofs

Proper waterproofing is essential to protect a roof from water and moisture. The choice of waterproofing materials depends on the roof’s finish. Commonly used materials include roofing felt and membranes such as TPO/FPO, PVC, and EPDM.

The pitched roof system primarily protects against atmospheric precipitation. However, pitched roofs with attic systems often create living spaces, requiring additional thermal and acoustic insulation. Wool insulation is commonly used for this purpose, which necessitates enhanced protection against precipitation and improved ventilation. Ventilation is achieved by creating a gap between the insulation and the waterproofing layer.

For flat roofs, waterproofing can be applied using either:

• Traditional method: The lower part of the structure contains thermal insulation, with waterproofing installed on top.
• Inverted method: Waterproofing is placed in the upper layer.

Flat roofs can also be transformed into green roofs, providing an environmentally friendly and functional space.

If you want to learn how to waterproof green roofs, check out our detailed article.

Dachy zielone

Waterproofing Wet Rooms (Bathrooms, Laundry Rooms, Drying Rooms)

The bathroom is the most vulnerable space in a home to water exposure. It’s important to note that grout does not protect tiled areas from moisture. Unprotected areas exposed to direct water contact allow moisture to penetrate deep into the walls.

Unfortunately, bathrooms often develop unsightly dark stains and a musty odor, indicating mold growth. To prevent such issues, waterproofing must be applied across the entire floor with overlaps on the walls and specific waterproofing around the shower tray or bathtub.

The best solution for bathroom waterproofing is liquid membrane. It’s essential to apply the membrane in two layers, with each layer applied in a different direction for maximum effectiveness.

If you’re wondering how to waterproof your bathroom yourself, check out our guide for step-by-step instructions.

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Waterproofing Balconies, Terraces, and External Stairs

Architectural elements located outside the building’s outline, along with external waterproofing systems such as roofs, are highly exposed to weather conditions. Temperature fluctuations, UV radiation, frost, rain, hail, and wind pose significant threats to balconies and terraces. Improper waterproofing of these areas can lead not only to an unsightly appearance but also to material corrosion, cracking, dampness, and leaks.

To properly secure balconies and terraces, you must choose materials tailored to your selected finishing type. Additionally, consider whether the terrace or balcony is in contact with the ground, situated above a heated room, or covered with a roof.

If you want to select the right materials and learn how to waterproof your balcony or terrace, check out one of our guides for detailed instructions.

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Hydroizolacja balkonu lub tarasu na płytkach na dystansach

Hydroizolacja balkonu lub tarasu z żywicy poliuretanowej

Where Is Waterproofing Applied?

Waterproofing is essential for protecting the underground parts of a building, such as foundations and basements. Equally important is waterproofing for roofs (e.g., pitched roofs, flat roofs, green roofs). Additionally, elements such as balconies, terraces, and bathrooms must not be overlooked, as they are also highly susceptible to water and moisture damage.

How Much Does Waterproofing Cost?

The cost of waterproofing depends on several factors, including the level of risk (e.g., groundwater levels) and the chosen waterproofing system. Different materials are required for waterproofing foundations, wet rooms, roofs, or balconies. Waterproofing existing buildings may also involve additional work, such as injection processes.

For an accurate estimate of material costs and the scope of work, consult a specialist. During the consultation, you can discuss the problem in detail either in person or by sending photos and a description of the issue via email through our website.

We invite you to contact a SANIER specialist, who will assess the problem and recommend appropriate solutions, materials, and technologies. With our help, you can avoid issues associated with a damp home, which can lead to structural damage and the growth of health-hazardous mold and fungi.

Which Waterproofing Materials Should You Choose?

Selecting the right building and waterproofing materials can be a challenging task. The effectiveness of waterproofing depends on the quality of the materials and how well their properties match your specific needs. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it’s advisable to consult an expert who can help assess which products are most suitable and recommend materials that fit your budget.

If you prefer to choose the materials yourself, we invite you to read our article, where we explain the differences and characteristics of various material groups.

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