The building industry has evolved rapidly in the last decade, and a big trend in 2025 is contractor preferences for waterproofing. Across commercial construction, residential building, and remedial waterproofing, liquid waterproofing membranes are now the go-to solution for speed, versatility, and long-term durability.
Here's why — and what the latest trends tell us about where the industry is heading.
Want to understand more about how liquid waterproofing membranes work and when to use them? Read our full guide here.
1. Seamless Protection = Fewer Failures
Traditional sheet membranes rely on overlaps and seams, which can be the most common points of failure. Liquid-applied membranes cure into a seamless barrier, removing risk in corners, penetrations, and complex shapes. This means:
- No joins or weak points
- Excellent waterproof continuity
- Perfect for irregular surfaces and tight details
2. Faster Installation Times (A Top Trend for 2025)
Construction schedules continue to tighten. In 2025, the market shows a clear preference for fast-curing, single-component liquid membranes.
Speed advantages of SEMCO Works Liquid Membrane:
- Roll-on, brush, or spray-on application in just two coats
- Suitable for large surfaces and small details alike
- Faster re-coat times due to the 1-hour* dry time
The fast drying times also mean reduced delays from weather variability on the day of application, although liquid membranes won’t be able to cure in wet weather conditions. Read about this and more mistakes to avoid.
*Depending on site temperature and humidity
3. Compatibility With Modern Construction Materials
Today’s builds use a wide range of substrates — from concrete, FC sheeting, screed, and timber to hybrid substrates. Liquid waterproofing offers excellent substrate adhesion without the complications of heat welding or mechanical fixing. Our membrane also has crack-bridging and anti-fracture benefits, with 1300% elongation to reduce the risk of cracks transferring through to overlay materials as substrates move.
Compatible with:
- Balconies and rooftops (for use over or under timber)
- Preparation for resurfacing with microcement
- Wet areas such as primary waterproofing for bathroom tiles
- Retaining walls
- Planter boxes
- Below-grade structures
Discover what substrates you can waterproof with liquid membranes.
4. Improved Product Technology in 2025
Liquid membranes have come a long way. Recent innovations at SEMCO Works focus on:
- High elongation (1300% — unmatched!) to tolerate movement
- Crack bridging capabilities
- Safe formulas that meet sustainability requirements
- Enhanced UV resistance for exposed areas
This upgraded chemistry gives contractors more confidence, especially in exposed environments like rooftops.
5. Easier Quality Control On-Site
Paying attention to installation quality and compliance is a non-negotiable onsite. Liquid membranes offer exceptional visibility during application — we have super bright colourways designed specially so you can literally see where the product has been applied.
Don’t worry; we also have semi-clear and neutral colours if you’re using the membrane as a finishing coat — because our membrane offers waterproofing and sealing in one. Learn more about coloured waterproofing membranes for existing surfaces.
6. Better Performance in Complex or High-Risk Areas
Liquid systems excel in high-risk areas where other systems struggle, like:
- Drain penetrations
- Balconies with complex falls
- Vertical + horizontal junctions
- Shower recesses
- Retrofit or remedial work
Liquid membranes flow where sheets cannot, creating a continuous barrier even around difficult angles. Compare Liquid and Sheet Waterproofing Membranes.
7. A Shift to Spray-Applied Systems
One of the biggest 2025 trends is the rise of spray-applied waterproofing, which offers:
- Ultra-fast coverage
- More consistent film thickness
- Reduced manual labour
- Better results on large commercial projects
Most next-generation membranes (like ours) are now available in spray-ready formulations — making them attractive to contractors upgrading their equipment.
8. Lower Long-Term Costs for Builders & Clients
While some liquid systems may cost more upfront, they almost always deliver better value across the life of the building because they result in:
- Fewer repairs
- Lower risk of water ingress
- Longer lifespan
- Better UV and movement resistance
- Less maintenance over time
So, are Liquid Membranes the future?
Contractors, builders, and handy homeowners increasingly agree: liquid-applied membranes offer unmatched performance, speed, and reliability.
The benefits include:
- Seamless protection
- Faster turnaround
- Better adhesion
- Increased versatility
- Reduced risk of failure
If you install waterproofing systems, liquid-applied membranes are not just easier — but they can deliver better results across the entire project lifecycle.