Terrace waterproofing is a procedure in which a protective layer of waterproofing membrane is applied on the surface to prevent leakage from the terrace to the floor below. The membrane not only stops water leakage from the terrace but also prevents the formation of fractures and cracks on the surface.

Water leakage usually happens on a flat surface as a flat surface hinders proper drainage of water. The accumulated water then starts seeping through fractures on the terrace surface. Therefore, waterproofing a flat terrace is compulsory to prevent leakages.

Slanting rooftops and terraces with suitable slopes have a lower rate of leakage. Yet, the chances of leakages happening are only relatively low. Waterproofing of the terrace ensures that such kinds of leakages are avoided for at least a decade.

Materials Used In Waterproofing Terrace Floor

There are a variety of materials and methods that can be effectively utilised to waterproof a terrace. Below are some of the best industry-tested examples:

1. LIQUID MEMBRANE TERRACE WATERPROOFING

A liquid terrace waterproofing membrane is a coating of rubber which uses a primer coat. The coating process consists of multiple top-layer coats. When applied, the coats are liquid but turn into rubber upon curing.

2. CEMENT-BASED TERRACE WATERPROOFING

It is a chemical substance which is a specific cement mixture of additives like masonry, concrete, metals, PVC, HDPE, etc. Multiple waterproofing companies offer cement-based products. It is imperative to make sure that you choose a brand that offers lump-free and easily soluble products.

3. BITUMINOUS COATING TERRACE WATERPROOFING

Bituminous coating is an acrylic or polyurethane-based terrace waterproofing solution. It is also known as asphalt coating in the waterproofing industry. It is also used to coat the outer layer of underground pipes. The only drawback is that this coating becomes fragile and brittle when exposed to sunlight.

4. BITUMINOUS MEMBRANE TERRACE WATERPROOFING

The bituminous membrane consists of asphalt, filler, and polymers, making it self-adhesive. The bituminous membrane is a black sticky sheat whose layers are as defined:

1. The top layer comprises aluminium, slates, sand, talc, or polyethene foil.
2. The second layer consists of the bitumen itself.
3. The third layer is a reinforcement layer composed of fibreglass, polyester, aluminium, etc.
4. The fourth layer is backed with a thick layer of bituminous material.
5. The final layer is an underlayer composed of foil (torch layer) or removable film (fully self-adhered or strips).

5. POLYURETHANE LIQUID MEMBRANE TERRACE WATERPROOFING

Polyurethane is basically a UV-resistant membrane. It demonstrates excellent adhesion to the substrate, flexibility and high resistance. However, it is ultra-sensitive to moisture, so while it is in the application stage, the coating will incur severe damage in the long run if the concrete is not completely dry. Its material is, as the name itself states, aliphatic polyurethane.

COST OF WATERPROOFING A TERRACE

The cost for waterproofing a terrace using the above procedures is usually Rs 200/- to Rs 400/- per square foot. These costs can be variable as the material and labour charges vary from season to season.

What is the cheapest method of waterproofing?

A polymer coating known as Mastic coating is the cheapest method of waterproofing. Once this polymer, i.e. mastic coating is applied, you do not need to worry about significant work (breaking / concrete work, etc.). But. It’s a temporary solution that will last for 5-7 years only.

What is the best way to waterproofing a tiled terrace?

Manufacturers usually offer two solutions for the best-tiled terrace waterproofing membrane: wet/liquid and rolled/sheet membranes. However, the quality of terrace waterproofing work depends on following the manufacturer’s instructions properly.

How Long Does Terrace Waterproofing Last?

The life of terrace waterproofing depends on several factors, such as the materials’ quality, the application method, environmental conditions, and maintenance practices. A well-applied and properly maintained terrace waterproofing system typically lasts 5 to 20 years.

Rate Of The Terrace Waterproofing In Sq Ft In Kanpur

Terrace waterproofing rates in Kanpur range from Rs 200/- to Rs 400/- per square foot. There are cheaper terrace waterproofing providers in Kanpur who provide a super attractive rate of Rs 40/- to Rs 50/-, but their coating won’t have a long life(coating life range of 1 yr to 2 yr).

How Can We Repair Cracks In Concrete Roofs?

Cracks on concrete roofs are not uncommon in a building as the roof faces a harsh environment and extreme temperature, which causes the expansion of concrete in the roof.

The simplest method to repair a crack in concrete roofs is to fill the cracks and apply a quality terrace waterproofing coating, which prevents concrete expansion, too. 

What Happens If It Rains After Waterproofing?

Rain could affect the coating. When using spray-on waterproofing coatings, you must ensure the polymers and elastomers bond with the substrate surface. To make this happen, you must ensure the substrate is clean.

Is Mosaic Flooring A Good Option For A Terrace?

Mosaic flooring is one of the worst options for a terrace, especially if done by inexperienced and unprofessional people. Mosaic tiles have the highest leakage complaint rates in the entire industry. Mosaics on the terrace are beautiful, but super-high costs and high maintenance accompany them.

What Is The Best Method For Waterproofing For A Terrace?

The best method for waterproofing a terrace is to thoroughly clean it and ensure that each and every crack present on the surface is filled adequately.

This should be followed by uniform and decent application of high-quality waterproofing solutions.