Water damage is one of the most frustrating (and expensive) problems a homeowner can face. Whether it’s a leaking balcony, a rotting planter box, or a musty bathroom, the culprit is usually the same: poor waterproofing. Luckily, you don’t need to be a tradie to take waterproofing into your own hands. Liquid waterproofing membranes — like SEMCO Liquid Membrane™ — make it easy for DIYers to tackle waterproofing projects around the home with confidence. Versatile, durable, and easy to apply, they create a seamless watertight barrier that lasts.

Here are the most popular and practical ways homeowners are using liquid membranes in DIY projects.

1. Bathroom Waterproofing

If you’re tackling your own bathroom renovation, you’ll probably already know that waterproofing is required by building codes — as well as being crucial for longevity. To be safe, every surface should be protected, from showers to sink areas and even your ceilings. With a brush, roller, or even a spray gun, it’s easy to apply Liquid Membrane™ to shower walls, floors, corners, and around plumbing penetrations before tiling.

*The same goes for laundries, saunas, pool houses, or al fresco dining areas — anywhere your surfaces are frequently exposed to water.

2. Balconies & Decks

Outdoor areas are exposed to rain, UV, and movement in temperature changes, which can cause cracks, leaks, and structural damage. Good thing Liquid Membrane™ is UV resistant, rainproof, and extremely flexible to withstand substrate expansions and contractions. After preparing the surface with the relevant cleaning method based on the substrate, apply the membrane under the final finish (tiles, pavers, decking) to protect the structure below. Or, you can even use it as a top coat to seal existing materials, like this customer:

3. Rooftop Waterproofing

Rooftops are often the first thing to be impacted in heavy rain, bearing the full force of water, wind, and debris. Without proper protection, water can quickly seep through cracks and weak points, leading to structural damage, mould growth, and costly repairs. A high-quality waterproofing system acts as the first line of defence against a leaky roof, saving you money on expensive repairs not to mention extending the lifespan of the entire building — because a leak in a roof means damaged walls, which leads to damaged floors… you get the picture!

Liquid membranes can be applied directly onto a prepared roof surface, whether it’s concrete or metal.

4. External Walls

Like your rooftops, exterior walls are constantly exposed to the elements. A good waterproofing system not only shields the walls from damage, but also helps maintain the building’s appearance and structural integrity (ours has anti-fracture protection worked into the innovative formula). Luckily, protecting external walls yourself is easy with a liquid membrane.

6. Underground Spaces (Basements, Garages)

Basements, cellars, and subfloors are naturally prone to moisture — especially in older homes. Because of its high elongation (meaning how much it can stretch without breaking), our Liquid Membrane™ has been used to repair cracked basement flooring to prevent against future leaks without having to entirely demolish the surface.

7. Caravans

Yep, whether it’s a caravan restoration, a converted bus, or a brand new mobile home: you can coat it in a liquid waterproofing membrane to protect it against the elements. Pay special attention to seams, joints, and gaps in exterior panels. A well-sealed caravan not only ensures a dry, comfortable living space but also preserves its structural integrity and resale value.

Why DIYers Love Liquid Waterproofing Membranes

• Adheres to almost any surface – including concrete, metal, painted surfaces, and more
• Easy to apply – just a brush, roller, or spray gun needed
• Flexible and crack-bridging – perfect for damaged surfaces or those that move or shift
• UV- and weather-resistant – great for outdoor use
• Seamless and watertight – no joins, no weak points

Tips for First-Time DIY Waterproofers

• Prep is everything: Clean the surface according to supplier instructions, address damage, and make sure it's dry.
• Follow the specs: Apply at the recommended thickness and allow full cure time.
• Reinforce joints: Use reinforcing fabric or mesh for corners and cracks over 6mm.
• Inspect regularly: Recheck your waterproofing each season for signs of wear.

Discover our liquid waterproofing membrane that makes professional-grade waterproofing accessible to DIYers. Shop EMCO Liquid Membrane™ now — the go-to waterproofing system for home owners and professionals.