Did you know that water damage has increased by 72% over the past five years? This has, therefore, skyrocketed the demand for waterproofing materials in Singapore and across the country. Waterproofing is a pivotal aspect of any home construction or renovation. Whether erecting a new home or maintaining an existing house, selecting a suitable waterproofing material is key to protecting your home from mold growth, moisture damage, and structural issues. If you’re looking forward to selecting waterproofing material for your roof or bathroom waterproofing material, RSF Waterproofing has got you covered.
We’ve explored the key factors to consider before choosing the best waterproofing material, the different types of waterproofing materials, and professional advice to help you make an informed decision.
Let’s dive in.
What is Waterproofing?
Generally, waterproofing is the process whereby a structure is made impermeable to water entrance. Similarly, materials used for waterproofing act as protective measures to prevent water from seeping into the floors, walls, and house foundations, which can cause mayhem and severe destruction over time.
Research done by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) has shown that water damage is one of the leading causes of home insurance claims, thus costing homeowners lump sums per incident. Proper home waterproofing is therefore necessary to avoid damage and deaths.
Look no further; RSF Waterproofing has all the expertise and knowledge to help you prevent water damage in your house before it’s too late.
Now that you know what waterproofing is, let’s discuss some of the best materials for waterproofing basement walls or floors.
Common Types of Waterproofing Materials
We at RSF Waterproofing have done intensive research to bring you common waterproofing materials available in Singapore for your house renovation. Each material has unique properties suited for different areas in your home project. The following is a waterproofing material name list you should know in 2024:
Cementitious Waterproofing
Cementitious Waterproofing
Are you looking for the best waterproofing material for water tanks, bathrooms, or basements? Cementitious waterproofing is the best choice for these occasions. It is typically a well-known choice for its ease of use and affordability.
Cementitious waterproofing is the best choice for bathrooms, water tanks, and basements because of how it’s made. This waterproofing material is made from sand, cement, and other additives.
Cementitious waterproofing is a good choice for areas with continuous water exposure, such as basements and bathrooms. Its resistance to water pressure and durability make it reliable for bathroom waterproofing projects.
Liquid Waterproofing Membrane
Liquid waterproofing membrane is deemed to be the top choice for roofing terraces and balconies. If your roofing has a leak, worry less. RFS Waterproofing understands all waterproofing projects and is ready to seal all the loopholes in your patio, roof, or terrace.
As the name suggests, this type of waterproofing material is applied as a liquid, forming a seamless and flexible membrane. Other materials that constitute liquid membrane waterproofing include acrylic, bitumen, and polyurethane.
Similarly, if you want to seal surfaces requiring movement and flexibility, liquid membrane waterproofing material is your ideal choice. It tends to adapt well to the contraction and thermal expansion of building materials.
Bituminous Membrane Waterproofing
If you’ve stumbled upon this post in your frantic search for the best foundation or basement waterproofing material, look no further; bituminous membrane waterproofing material is the best choice.
Additionally, bituminous membrane waterproofing materials work well in retaining walls and can also be applied as a liquid spray or sheets. Primarily, bituminous membrane waterproofing employs the use of bitumen-based products, which are generally known for their amazing waterproofing capabilities.
Conversely, bituminous membrane waterproofing provides strong protection, especially underneath structures with high water pressure. The materials used for waterproofing in bituminous membranes are also resistant to a wide range of chemicals, thus making them ideal for harsh environments.
Polyurethane Waterproofing
Polyurethane is deemed one of the best waterproofing materials for flat roofs, roof decks, and balconies. It is a high-performance material with robust durability and flexibility.
Similarly, it is mostly applied in areas exposed to harsh weather conditions because it offers strong resistance to UV radiation and high temperature. Polyurethane also resists detergents and various chemicals. These attributes make it one of the most versatile and best waterproofing materials.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Rubber
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Rubber is an excellent waterproofing material for roofs, green roofs, and ponds. Durability and flexibility are the core benefits of EPDM waterproofing, as it can expand and contract continuously due to temperature variations.
Generally, its flexibility and resistance to weathering make it the most popular choice for waterproofing and roofing applications. RSF Waterproofing can help you cure your leaked roofing with EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Rubber.
The table below shows the complete comparison of the different types of waterproofing materials
| WATERPROOFING MATERIALl | Suitable for | Ease of Application | Advantages | Disadvantages | Environmental Impact |
| Cementitious Waterproofing | Bathrooms, Basements | Easy | Excellent adhesion, durable | Requires skilled application, expensive | Moderate |
| Liquid Waterproofing Membrane | Roofs, Terraces | Moderate | Easy to apply, durable | May not withstand extreme weather | High |
| Bituminous Membrane | Foundations, Walls | Difficult | Cost-effective, durable | Susceptible to punctures, harmful fumes | Low |
| Polyurethane Waterproofing | Decks, Flat Roofs | Moderate | Flexible, durable, resistant to chemicals | Expensive, requires ventilation | Moderate |
| EPDM Rubber | Roofs, Ponds | Difficult | long-lasting | Requires proper application, may not suit all conditions | High |
Top Factors to Consider When Choosing Waterproofing Materials-All You Need to Know
How do you choose the best waterproofing materials for your home? This is where most Singaporeans mess when choosing which waterproofing material to use. Therefore, it is essential to keep some factors in mind as a roadmap to guide you when selecting the suitable waterproofing material for your project;
Here is a breakdown of what to look for when selecting the best waterproofing material in 2024;
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions or climate, in general, play a central role in determining the type of waterproofing material to use. Areas experiencing heavy rainfall or high humidity, like bituminous membranes or polyurethane coating, may need more robust waterproofing solutions, unlike regions with less rainfall.
Knowing the climate of your area will instruct you on which waterproofing material is best for your project. Nonetheless, should you have difficulties selecting the waterproofing material according to your weather conditions, reach out to RSF Waterproofing for assistance.
Where to Apply
When choosing the best waterproofing material for your house, you can’t ignore the application area. The waterproofing material used in the bathroom and roofing should be different.
Bathrooms and basements require materials that can firmly withstand constant water exposure, unlike other areas such as roofing and balconies, which might require materials that can handle extreme UV rays and thermal expansion.
Affordability
Your budget is a greater determinant of the type of waterproofing material you choose from the shelves. Depending on the type of material and method of application, materials used for waterproofing can range from pocket-friendly prices to premium ones.
Cheap is always expensive. Go for high-quality materials, which will save you money in the long run by curbing unnecessary repairs.
Ease of Application
You don’t want to buy something you’re clueless about how to use. Some materials used for waterproofing are straightforward to apply, while others, like liquid membranes, may require expertise for better results.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best waterproofing material for your home is a decision that requires careful consideration of certain aspects, such as cost, how and where to apply it, and weather conditions.You can always contact RSF Waterproofing, to help you with waterproofing projects and renovate your house as per your taste and preference.