Penetrating waterproofing for concrete: the best way to protect against moisture

Penetrating waterproofing for concrete is a mixture that is used to protect foundations and other parts of a building from moisture. It is used in both private and industrial construction. The composition of such a mixture includes cement, sand, and various chemical components. The depth of penetration of active substances into concrete is 10-12 cm. This allows you to reliably protect the foundation from moisture and extend its service life.

Penetrating waterproofing is a substance that protects concrete from moisture

Penetrating waterproofing for concrete protection: how it works

The concrete blocks that are part of the foundation are exposed to moisture throughout the entire operation. Precipitation contributes to the erosion of the base of the building, which can lead to serious consequences. Concrete has microcracks through which moisture penetrates, getting into the basement.

The waterproofing mixture penetrates into concrete by 10-12 cm, protects it from moisture and prolongs its service life

It is also worth noting that water passes not only through microscopic cracks in the concrete structure, but also through the seams that are located between the individual structural elements. These places are vulnerable and also need reliable protection. Brickwork is not self-resistant to moisture.

In order to protect the foundation or any other structure (for example, a garage floor made of cement), it is customary to use a penetrating waterproofing for concrete. It is most often applied during the construction phase of a house. But in the case when the house has already been built and there is a problem with moisture in the basement, then the waterproofing is applied from the inside.

The principle of operation of the protective composition is simple and straightforward. After its application to concrete, the process of absorption of chemical additives through microcracks begins. In case of contact with water, the mixture that filled the capillaries of the block crystallizes.These crystals fill the empty space and prevent subsequent moisture penetration. It is important to note that they are not water soluble.

Helpful information! In addition to waterproof qualities, such an impregnation strengthens the concrete material, making it more durable and wear-resistant.

The waterproofing compound fills microcracks in concrete and prevents moisture penetration

To apply such a mixture, a wet surface is required, which distinguishes it from roll coatings and bitumen-based mastics. Before you buy a penetrating waterproofing for concrete, you should clearly understand the principle of its action.

Penetrating mixtures protect the foundation not only from moisture, but also from mold and mildew. The process, which is based on the interaction of free lime and moisture, allows you to reliably close the pores in the concrete structure and protect the structure from destructive factors.

When is concrete waterproofing used?

To accelerate the process of penetration of waterproofing substances into the concrete material, it is necessary to apply the composition to a wet surface. This method is very popular in cases when it is necessary to carry out the reconstruction of the premises. Often, penetrating compositions are used when it is not possible to apply another method of protection.

Penetrating substances are actively exploited to protect the foundations of private residential buildings from moisture. Industrial buildings are also included in the list of objects that are treated with this type of waterproofing. Objects can be exposed to high humidity:

Most often, penetrating waterproofing is used in the case of reconstruction of a building or room.

• cellars;
• wells;
• swimming pools;
• bathrooms.

This waterproofing material for concrete is not very popular, as some people simply do not know about its existence. However, the application of bituminous mastics is accompanied by certain difficulties, since they harden very quickly. In turn, roll materials do not guarantee one hundred percent protection of concrete from the damaging effects of moisture.

It should be noted that penetrating mixtures are recommended to be used to block microporous material. This means that such a tool is not suitable for buildings made of foam blocks.

Basic characteristics of penetrating waterproofing for foundation

Waterproofing of any structure can be carried out even at the construction stage. Moreover, many experts recommend using this particular method. It takes into account the addition of dry matter to the cement slurry. Such a mixture affects the structure of the future foundation, the waterproofing properties of which are manifested from the very beginning.

In addition to protecting it from moisture, the waterproofing mixture makes concrete more durable, prevents the spread of fungus and mold.

Concrete additives for waterproofing help to protect the foundation from the effects of precipitation and water in the ground at all points without exception. The service life of this insulation will be equal to the shelf life of the foundation itself, since they are a single whole.

Note! Crystals that form in microscopic pores are resistant to water. They can collapse, allowing water to pass through, but even then, over time, they recover. This type of regeneration ensures a high degree of foundation protection.

Advantages of penetrating waterproofing for foundation

An important advantage of such additives is their ability to speed up the process of building a house. This is because their use eliminates the need for concrete drying. Thus, time is saved due to the penetrating waterproofing for concrete. Reviews of such formulations are mostly positive.

When applying the mixture to a concrete surface, you need to know that it must be wet. Moreover, the higher this indicator, the faster the crystallization reaction occurs inside the pores. The material itself does not lose its properties after processing, retaining all useful technical characteristics, such as:

Penetrating waterproofing reduces construction time

• breathability;
• vapor permeability;
• resistance to temperature fluctuations;
• mobility.

The only indicator that changes after waterproofing is applied is water resistance. Such insulation is the most acceptable solution in the case when it is necessary to protect the foundation of an already finished structure from moisture. This is due to the fact that it eliminates the need to excavate the base. You can buy waterproofing for concrete in a specialized store or place an order online.

The penetrating composition provides reliable waterproofing protection, regardless of which side it was applied to the foundation. The groundwater pressure in this case also has no effect on the quality of protection. The insulated surface, as well as all seams and butt points, become immune not only to moisture, but also to an aggressive environment with different Ph values.

Penetrating waterproofing for concrete: disadvantages

Any of the currently existing insulation has some disadvantages. The high performance of penetrating compounds makes them the most suitable for protecting foundations and other structures, but they are not ideal. The main disadvantage of such mixtures is that they are recommended to be used in combination with other waterproofing agents. For example, to protect the foundation joints from moisture, it is recommended to purchase a special substance designed for this.

One of the disadvantages of waterproofing mixtures is the rather high cost.

Another disadvantage of penetrating water insulation is that it is quite expensive. Depending on the brand and specialization of the mixture, the price of concrete waterproofing can vary from 50 to 350 rubles. for 1 kg.

Note! Typically, this type of insulation is sold in bags weighing 25 kg.

Before starting work on applying such a composition to the surface, it is necessary to carry out preliminary preparation. It is very important to clean the wall so that no (even minimal) dirt remains on it. Otherwise, the composition will not be well absorbed into the material. And it is also worthwhile to degrease the surface in advance. Experts recommend using a garden hose to clean the wall, as the water that comes out of it under pressure does this very well.

The cost of a waterproofing material can vary greatly depending on its type and brand. The most economical and reliable option is Lakhta penetrating waterproofing. You can buy such a mixture for a very reasonable price (80-100 rubles per 1 kg).

In order for the composition to be well absorbed into the concrete, it is necessary to carry out high-quality surface preparation

All of the above manipulations are necessary in order to provide free access to microscopic pores. If there are large gaps and cracks in the concrete walls, they must be repaired. It is recommended to cover such defects with cement mortar. This option is the most acceptable and simple.

It should also be noted that waterproofing mixtures of this type do not work if they are used to protect the surface of the brickwork. With their help, you can only protect and strengthen the seams in such a structure. Thus, for brickwork, it is better to apply the more common and familiar protection options.

Nevertheless, taking into account all the disadvantages, today there is no more effective means for waterproofing concrete structures. Before purchasing this composition, it is recommended to study the companies that manufacture it. This will allow you to choose the most reliable product at a very reasonable price.

Penetrating waterproofing: an overview of popular brands

Currently, the construction market abounds in various materials designed to protect the foundation. Penetrating insulation for concrete is no exception. It is implemented by different companies, each of which has its own pros and cons. Experts do not recommend buying the cheapest formulations, since they are often not of high quality.

The construction market offers a wide range of waterproofing mixtures for concrete

The middle price range is the most acceptable, since it includes good, high-quality brands of compositions. When choosing the right product, you should consult with the seller. And also before you buy penetrating waterproofing, it will be useful to study reviews about it on the Internet. Today, the following brands of penetrating mixtures are most common and effective:

• Penetron;
• Lakhta;
• Kalmatron.

The first option is the most common. It has been used for about half a century all over the world. Lakhta is distinguished by a variety of choices. And the mixture of the Kalmatron brand is considered the most versatile penetrating waterproofing. Pools, wells, cellars and balconies - all of these structures can be protected using the products of this manufacturer. There are many other brands that differ in their composition, application and action. However, the aforementioned companies have proven themselves best in the production of concrete protection products.

Penetron penetrating waterproofing: characteristics

Penetron brand building compounds are used not only for private, but also for industrial purposes. These mixtures have appeared quite a long time ago, and the effectiveness of their use has been tested by time. This mixture contains sand (quartz) and active chemical compounds.

The composition of Penetron mixtures includes quartz sand and chemical compounds

The cost of such a penetrating composition is quite high - 250-300 rubles. for 1 kg. However, its technical characteristics fully justify the price. Penetron penetrating waterproofing allows you to protect not only the foundation, but also walls and floors made of concrete. Penetron consumption is quite simple to calculate, since about 1 kg of composition is required to protect 1 m².

Note! Be careful, as domestic markets are filled with all sorts of fakes, which can cost much less than the original. The quality of such mixtures is in question, so you should not save on waterproofing the foundation and other concrete structures.

Penetron penetrating waterproofing for concrete is used to protect wells, pools, floors and walls in bathrooms and garages from water. Before using such a composition, it is advisable to read the instructions and watch a training video, which will describe in detail all the nuances of the work.

Related article:

Waterproofing the foundation with roll materials

Performing waterproofing work on the foundation with roll materials of various types: detailed instructions.

Features of penetrating waterproofing Lakhta

The Lakhta brand is domestic, and its distinctive feature lies in a wide range of dry mixes used for concrete waterproofing. The products of this brand are used for various tasks, including for strengthening the waterproofness of the seams.

Mixes for waterproofing Lakhta are used both in private and industrial construction

The principle of operation of such mixtures is the same as in the case of Penetron waterproofing material. Active chemical components penetrate into the pores of the concrete structure and crystallize when interacting with water. Before proceeding with the application of Lakhta waterproofing, it is necessary to prepare the concrete surface.

The cost of this mixture is lower than the previous composition, but the products have pretty good reviews. The price for 1 kg of the substance is approximately 120-180 rubles. In terms of technical characteristics, such insulation is practically in no way inferior to the composition of Penetron. The price of penetrating waterproofing Lakhta determines its popularity and prevalence in the construction market.

This mixture is used to protect industrial and domestic concrete structures from moisture. With the help of such waterproofing, you can strengthen the waterproofing of the walls and floors in the cellar or garage. It is also actively used to protect swimming pools, bathrooms and balconies.

Penetrating waterproofing Kalmatron: price and properties

The composition of this brand allows you to quickly and effectively eliminate small leaks that destroy the foundation of the building. This mixture helps to strengthen the surface strength of the concrete material. A feature of the Kalmatron waterproofing substance is its versatility. Compositions of this type are used to isolate the following materials from moisture:

The cost of penetrating waterproofing Kalmatron varies from 80 to 100 rubles. per 1 kg

• concrete;
• reinforced concrete;
• bricks;
• foam concrete;
• aerated concrete.

The price of penetrating waterproofing for concrete of this brand is the most attractive of all the brands presented. The cost of 1 kg of the product is about 80-100 rubles. Thus, for a bag, the volume of which is 25 kg, you will need to pay approximately 2000-2500 rubles. Similar compositions can be used both during construction and during the operation of concrete structures. Domestic consumers note the rather good waterproofing properties of Kalmatron compounds.

Helpful information! Before purchasing this waterproofing material, there is one important point to consider. It is not recommended to use it if the Ph level at the object is in the range from 3 to 11.

Liquid waterproofing for concrete: characteristics

In addition to dry mixes, there are other ways to protect concrete structures from the harmful effects of moisture. One of them is the use of liquid waterproofing. Today you can find a variety of liquid materials of this type, but the most common are the following:

In addition to dry mixtures for waterproofing, there are also liquid compositions

• liquid rubber;
• liquid glass.

These materials have both advantages and disadvantages. Before purchasing one of them, it is recommended to study the specifics of their use. Liquid products are much easier to work with, especially when compared with bituminous mastics, membrane films and roll products.

You can buy liquid waterproofing for concrete on the construction market, in a store or on the Internet. The cost of such formulations is about 2 times higher when compared with dry mixtures. Liquid substances that ensure the water resistance of concrete are also convenient because they can be applied to an uneven surface.

The nuances of using liquid waterproofing for concrete

The process of applying a protective composition itself is quite simple. It does not involve heating the mixture, as is the case with bituminous mastic. It should also be noted that the quality of this type of waterproofing is very high. Among other advantages of a liquid mixture, one can highlight the fact that it does not cause any harm to human health, since it does not emit active chemical compounds.

Liquid waterproofing for concrete must be applied by brush or roller

Liquid water insulation is resistant to high temperatures, so in summer you should not be afraid that it will start to melt. Such material is an excellent alternative to roll and other insulators.

Liquid glass for waterproofing concrete is applied using the following tools: brush, construction roller. The viscosity of the composition resembles the density of PVA glue. Such a mixture is applied in a thin layer, which, after drying, requires additional protection. This is due to the fact that the finished layer has poor resistance to mechanical stress.

This type of penetrating insulation achieves excellent results. Impregnations based on dry mixes increase water resistance, and liquid formulations make the concrete structure practically invulnerable to water. But this method also has some disadvantages. For example, making a layer of the required thickness with your own hands is quite difficult. Therefore, it is better to use the services of a professional.

Characteristics of waterproofing coatings for concrete

Many people confuse impregnation with lined insulation. This is not surprising, since they are very similar in their properties. Both of these types of waterproofing must be applied to the surface of the structure, after which they penetrate through microcracks deep into the concrete. The difference between the impregnation and the coating mixture is that it protects the concrete from moisture, penetrating quite deep into the blocks. In turn, the mortar makes only the concrete surface waterproof.

Lubricating waterproofing does not penetrate into the depth, but protects only the concrete surface

Helpful information! Penetrating coating waterproofing is absorbed into the concrete material shallowly, just enough to ensure a reliable and effective adhesion to it. This is the main difference between impregnation and coating.

A very important point is that a layer that has such a small thickness must be applied correctly. Otherwise, it will not cope with its functions.

The requirements for modern coating materials that ensure concrete impermeability to moisture are very high. It is important to note that in the case of applying a waterproofer from the side that resists the movement of moisture, claims to the material increase. This is due to the fact that it must withstand the pressure of the liquid. This composition must have the following characteristics:

• good adhesion;
• water resistance;
• elasticity.

It is necessary to apply the coating mixtures according to all the rules, otherwise they will not perform their functions

The latter characteristic is very important, since the concrete foundation wears out over time and cracks appear in it. In such a situation, a good coating type should not be damaged.

Features of waterproofing concrete paint

The waterproofing of concrete can be achieved using another means. It is waterproofing paint. It has many benefits. For example, it is very easy to apply it to the surface on your own, which makes it popular among people.

Depending on the amount of constituent substances that make up such a paint, it can be one-component or two-component. A paint that has a water-repellent effect is most often one-component. This composition is enamel and has high technical characteristics. If desired, it can be used as a joint penetrating waterproofing.

These compositions have a high degree of waterproofing, therefore they are most often used to protect the walls of pools and other tanks that are constantly in contact with water. The application of such paint is carried out using special spray guns. Thus, it becomes possible to independently regulate the jet coming out of the tool.

Waterproofing paints for concrete are extremely convenient to apply

Features of applying concrete waterproofing

The application of waterproofing material for concrete is carried out strictly in accordance with the instructions. This process is conventionally divided into several stages. Experts do not recommend deviating from them. Of course, it is much easier to use concrete additives for waterproofing, but water insulation is not always made during the construction phase of a building. Consider the algorithm of actions, which must be guided by when working with waterproof compositions.

First of all, you should prepare the surface on which the penetrating material will be applied. The surface is thoroughly cleaned, after which it must be degreased. And also it will be necessary to carry out a preventive check of the waste communication. It shouldn't be damaged in any way.

Helpful information! If you want to waterproof a surface that is many years old, then in this case it may be necessary to remove the old cladding. After that, a layer of plaster is applied. In some situations, it may be necessary to organize a new reinforcement.

Places that match the seams require special attention. They should be punctured carefully. The same applies to wide cracks (more than 4 mm). Finished channels are sealed using special sealing compounds. It is very important not to forget to close the slots at the points corresponding to the passage of pipes through the wall. For this, sealants are also used.

Before applying concrete waterproofing, thoroughly prepare the surface

It should be noted that for the organization of penetrating waterproofing of the floor, the algorithm of actions will be somewhat different. In this case, the work is simplified, since there is no need for gutting the seams. But in general, both processes are similar to each other, since they involve thorough surface preparation and application of the composition in the most convenient way in accordance with the instructions.

The next step is to prepare a solution of penetrating water insulation. In this case, it is necessary to carefully study the instructions, which describe all dosages and method of using the mixture. Next, the composition is applied to a previously prepared surface. For this, different tools are used, such as a brush, roller or a special spray gun (depending on the properties of the waterproofing mixture).

Penetrating compounds are modern means that make the foundation waterproof, thereby increasing its service life. These mixes can be very different from each other, but they all do their job better than traditional materials for protecting concrete structures. When choosing a penetrating waterproofing for building foundations, as well as other concrete structures, you need to pay attention to its price, composition and method of application.