When it comes to protecting surfaces from water damage, liquid waterproofing is a popular solution for both residential and commercial projects. Whether you're waterproofing a bathroom, pool, or roof, understanding the benefits and limitations of liquid waterproofing can help you make the right choice for your project.
What is Liquid Waterproofing?
Liquid waterproofing involves applying a liquid membrane, which dries to form a seamless barrier that prevents water from penetrating surfaces. It's typically applied in 2-3 coats and can be used across a variety of applications, most commonly balconies, decks, roofs, pools, and bathrooms.
Pros of Liquid Waterproofing
1. Seamless Application
One of the standout advantages of liquid waterproofing is its seamless application. Since the membrane is applied as a liquid, it eliminates the risk of joints or seams where water could potentially leak through. This provides continuous coverage, which is particularly beneficial for areas prone to water pooling or cracks.
2. Versatile and Adaptable
Liquid waterproofing can be applied to a wide range of materials, including wood, tiles, concrete, interior & exterior cladding, sheeting, fibreglass, metal, aluminium, plaster, villaboard, asphalt, MDF & bricks. Its adaptability makes it a go-to solution for easy DIY repairs, saving you money and time on resurfacing. Additionally, it can conform to the shape of irregular surfaces or complex architectural designs, ensuring full coverage even in hard-to-reach areas.
3. Quick and Easy Installation
Unlike sheet membranes or other types of waterproofing systems, liquid waterproofing is quick to install. The application process is straightforward and only takes one day, making it easy for both DIY enthusiasts and labourers working on projects of every shape and size. You can apply our product using a roller, brush, or spray, making it an accessible option for homeowners. Each coat only takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to dry. This means you can finish the standard two-coat system in just a couple of hours.
4. Durable and Long-Lasting
Once cured, liquid waterproofing membranes form a durable, flexible, and weather-resistant barrier. A liquid system is UV-resistant and can withstand varying temperatures and conditions, making it a solid choice for exterior applications like roofs or balconies. Some products also have the added benefit of being resistant to chemicals and abrasion — like ours.
5. Anti-Fracture Protection
SEMCO Works Liquid Membrane™️ provides waterproofing and anti-fracture protection in one. You can use it to stabilise a damaged substrate before resurfacing, or to ensure crack reduction and waterproofing in every coat. It also boasts 1300% elongation — meaning it stretches up to 13 times its original size! Other membranes are around 800%. This makes it the best choice if you want to ensure lasting anti-fracture protection and waterproofing as your building settles.
Limitations of Liquid Waterproofing
1. Requires Proper Surface Preparation
One of the key considerations with liquid waterproofing is that it demands meticulous surface preparation. Any dirt, moisture, or debris can affect adhesion and lead to poor performance. If the surface isn’t properly cleaned and primed, the membrane may not adhere effectively, resulting in leaks or failure over time. It also may require you to use a sealer as a finishing coat, depending on your application.
How is SEMCO Works better? As per our detailed application instructions, we have a range of cleaners for quick and easy substrate preparation. You can confidently prepare your substrate for Liquid Membrane™️ to ensure the best possible application.
2. Multiple Coats May Be Necessary
While liquid waterproofing is relatively easy to apply, it can require multiple coats to achieve the desired level of protection. Each coat needs adequate drying time, which can prolong the installation process. If you're working on a large-scale project, this may increase labour and material costs.
How is SEMCO Works better? SEMCO chemists have developed the Liquid Membrane™️ system to be quicker than ever. It only requires 2 coats (or 3 for pools) with a 45-minute drying time each. This means even larger waterproofing projects can be completed in one day.
3. Cost Can Vary
While liquid waterproofing can be cost-effective for small or simple projects, the overall cost can add up for larger areas requiring multiple coats or professional installation. High-quality liquid membranes can be more expensive upfront compared to other methods like sheet membranes or bituminous coatings.
How is SEMCO Works better? Liquid Membrane™️ is very cost-efficient thanks to its excellent coverage. A little goes a long way; each litre provides 2-3m2 of coverage at 2 coats (0.75mm each coat). It’s around $13 per m2 based on 10L bucket. Our aim is to provide a user-friendly professional-grade waterproofing solution to homeowners at an affordable price.
4. Rubber vs. Silicone vs. Water-based
There are a few different types of liquid waterproofing formulas, and using the wrong one can be detrimental to your project. A hybrid elastomer blend like SEMCO Liquid Membrane™️ ticks all the boxes compared to rubber and silicone formulas. See our comparison chart below.
Liquid waterproofing is a versatile and highly effective solution for preventing water damage in a range of settings. Its seamless application, flexibility, and durability make it an excellent choice for both DIY and professional projects. Ultimately, you need to choose the right liquid waterproofing product to ensure you can reap the benefits.