Integral Waterproofing

Integral waterproofing is a system or method that can make concrete structures watertight and can protect and maintain the durability of structural concrete. Integral waterproofing is typically used in wet areas or those in direct contact with soil, such as swimming pools, ground water tanks, basements, and so on. The main concept of integral waterproofing is to seal as many pores as possible in the structural concrete. Giving the concrete impermeability against external water penetration, making the concrete structure more durable and long-lasting.

There are 2 types of systems used in integral waterproofing:

1. Hydrophilic A system that uses a crystallization method that replaces water in concrete with sea crystals.
2. Hydrophobic A system that uses fatty acids to block pores in concrete and prevent water entry.

It’s important to know that integral waterproofing offers many other advantages, especially for building structural elements, including:

1. Can save construction time because implementation occurs simultaneously with concrete pouring
2. Waterproofing costs are much more economical because there’s no longer a need for protective paint or waterproofing coatings
3. Improved concrete quality
4. Increased concrete resistance to aggressive gases and liquids
5. Seals pores in concrete making it impermeable

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, integral waterproofing is also easy to apply. However, there are several requirements for integral waterproofing work to ensure maximum concrete impermeability. The first thing to pay attention to is ensuring the concrete slump aligns with the work plan, and the work procedures must adapt to the type of waterproofing material used. Integral waterproofing materials come in powder or liquid admixture form for concrete mixtures that react with cement in the concrete mix. By forming networks that cover small pores in the concrete, making the concrete more dense and waterproof after the drying process.

Visit www.consolindonesia.com to learn more about products for integral waterproofing and their application methods.

Also read our other article about: USING CONCRETE ADHESIVE FOR JOINING OLD AND NEW CONCRETE