At the initial stage of any construction, a very topical issue is the waterproofing of the foundation. If the base is affected by moisture in the form of heavy rainfall or groundwater, this will lead to the destruction of the monolithic structure. Corrosion of the metal elements of the foundation will begin, the integrity of the support of the building will be violated. The strength of the foundation largely depends on the hydraulic materials used to protect the underground part of the base. The range of these materials is quite wide. But quality, efficiency and cost are different. One of the universal and practical solutions is a waterproofing film for the foundation.
Requirements for materials for waterproofing
High humidity and its impact can destroy all elements of the building. To protect buildings from the harmful effects of moisture, waterproofing is required. There are certain requirements for it.
So, the material must have high hydrophobicity or water resistance. The product must neither absorb nor leak liquid. In addition, the materials must be sufficiently strong and flexible. A high-quality product is able to effectively protect the foundation over a wide temperature range, to be vapor-proof and UV-resistant.
All these requirements are common to many types of films for waterproofing the foundation. The main condition is that the material should “breathe” and not cause condensation.
Features of the polymer film
In the calculations, which are necessarily done before any construction, one of the priority issues is the maximum cost reduction of work, as well as materials. At the same time, affordable prices should not affect quality. Experts recommend using polymer films for waterproofing. Consider the main types and their features. Among the general list, one can single out flat polyethylene or PVC materials, reinforced and membrane films.
Building waterproofing films for the foundation are significantly different from traditional materials used for the roof. This is roofing material, mastic. First of all, we can highlight the simplicity and ease of installation, as well as the ability to combine layers. Waterproofing using a film provides reliable protection against moisture, and durability is proven and proven over the years. The only negative feature is that the film does not withstand the effects of ultraviolet radiation.
Some types of these materials are reinforced with a layer of rubber or bitumen. They are more stable and withstand not only moisture, but also aggressive liquids. These are various salts and acids. These types of waterproofing films for the foundation are widely used in problematic soils and in severe industrial conditions.
Types of films
Materials intended for waterproofing works on the modern construction market are represented by both domestic and foreign manufacturers. There are several types of these products:
- Roll.
- Reinforced.
- Diffuser
- Membrane
Consider the main types of this product.
Simple roll
The thickness of this film can vary in the range from 0.6 to 2 millimeters. In addition to waterproofing works, the material is also widely used in household needs as a coating for greenhouses and greenhouses. What is the popularity of this waterproofing film for the foundation? Price is a major plus. The cost of the material is very affordable (380 rubles / m 2 ). But it should be noted that the use of simple films requires favorable conditions, because the material is easily damaged. Due to its vulnerability to UV rays, this material is placed only underground, on the ground.
A plastic film for waterproofing the foundation can withstand certain loads. But in the process of pouring the solution, it can clump and collapse. To work with it you need special attention. Manufacturers are now adding various polymeric substances and additives to the composition, designed to increase the strength characteristics of the product.
Reinforced films
These materials are supplied in the form of a roll, and the film itself is multilayer. The central part is made on the basis of a non-woven base or polypropylene mesh. Between the outer layer, the film is carefully sealed.
Now a perforated waterproofing film for the foundation or non-perforated is being produced. They vary in technical specifications and quality. Therefore, their price is different.
The first product has very small holes, responsible for transmitting a small amount of moisture. This film is most often used only for waterproofing works on pitched roofs.
Non-perforated film does not allow moisture to pass through. The reinforcing layer allows you to protect the product from various deformations - this significantly increases the service life. Reinforced films intended for roofing and waterproofing the foundation are also made in the form of rolls and have different colors.
When choosing, you should consider parameters such as surface density, but not thickness. So, the density should be from 100 to 200 grams per square meter.
Diffuser membranes
It is also a multilayer material. Among the features - the product passes hydride vapor, but at the same time remains completely waterproof. These types of waterproofing films for the foundation are widely used for roofing. The material has a distinctive feature - steam is removed from a special insulating layer to the outside. Due to this feature, the product protects the foundation from moisture, various kinds of damage and putrefactive processes. These products are used in very humid rooms. These are saunas, baths, restaurants, cafes.
There is also a superdiffuser film on sale, which is distinguished by high technical characteristics and protective capabilities. The price between a conventional membrane and its “super” modification differs little. Therefore, for greater reliability and the guarantee of maximum protection, experts recommend purchasing superdiffuser types.
Membrane materials
Such waterproofing is a product of the latest generation. Membranes are a self-adhesive film consisting of three layers. The first is ordinary plastic film. Next comes the bitumen-polymer layer, and then a special adhesive layer.
These solutions are not afraid of sudden temperature changes. They are easy to stack, they do not require maintenance. To connect the membrane you need to use a hairdryer. Due to heating, monolithic waterproofing is obtained.
Advantages and disadvantages
Consider the pros and cons of waterproofing films for the foundation. These materials are a worthy alternative to coating waterproofing compounds. So, films are widely used to provide protection for vertical and horizontal walls of the foundation. But before installation, it is still recommended to conduct geological research.
Among the disadvantages of the films, a high degree of risk of damage to the material due to low strength can be distinguished. Also, the surface must be well prepared before laying. Docking seams are problem areas. Damage to the film due to exposure to aggressive components in the water. The film may be damaged by rodents.
Conclusion
Despite all the shortcomings, it is an excellent waterproofing material with high characteristics and low price. These are the most popular products in the process of constructing residential and industrial buildings. Many people choose films because of the ease of installation. If you fully comply with the laying technology, the material will provide reliable protection for a long time. You just need to choose the right waterproofing film for the foundation. The types and features of it are different and are suitable for specific situations.
So, we examined the types and properties of waterproofing films.