Terrace waterproofing is a process to prevent water leakage to the lower floors by waterproofing the terrace surface. Terraces are one of the most important living spaces for those who want to spend time outdoors. In order for these areas to be long-lasting, the necessary procedures must be carried out with the right insulation materials.
What is Terrace Waterproofing?
Terrace waterproofing; It is the entire process of protecting the floors and walls that make up this area from moisture and water. Since these areas are open to rain and other weather events, they are frequently exposed to water. This water must be drained without leaking into the floor and wall. Leaks here are prevented by waterproofing.
Insulation not only provides protection from water and moisture. It also increases the lifespan of floors by protecting them from sunlight and other external factors. In addition, different flooring materials can be preferred by taking into account decorative and aesthetic expectations. Epoxy-based materials provide insulation as well as a decorative appearance to the floors.
Terrace Waterproofing Materials
Terrace waterproofing materials are products that aim to make the relevant area water resistant. These materials act as a barrier between the ground and water, preventing water from penetrating into the ground. There are different types of insulation materials that will respond to the needs and expectations of users. Details about the prominent ones are as follows:
Bituminous Membranes
Bituminous membranes, which attract attention with their flexibility and durability, are widely preferred in terrace insulations. This material obtained from refined petroleum products has different options for high and low temperatures.
The most important advantages are its easy application, resistance to UV rays and flexible structure. These materials are adhered to the floor of the terrace using a special flame. The heat from the flame ensures that the membrane fully adheres to the surfaces.
Liquid Membranes
These materials, also known as liquid membranes, are in a fluid form. It is applied to the floor with different methods such as roller, brush and sprayer spray. Homogeneous application to every point is of great importance in terms of obtaining the desired result. Its fluid form hardens after drying, but maintains its flexibility.
Liquid membranes, which offer effective solutions for creating waterproofing, are available in acrylic and polyurethane-based options. When applied in several layers, it acts as a complete barrier against liquids.
Creating a homogeneous surface, easy application on complex surfaces and easy maintenance are the prominent features of this material. In order to achieve the desired result, it is very important that the floor is dry and clean before application.
Polyurethane Based Terrace Waterproofing Materials
Polyurethane-based materials stand out with their high elasticity and long-lasting structures. Their high elasticity ensures successful results even in areas that are constantly exposed to sunlight. These products, which prevent the formation of cracks in the application area, are in liquid form. They can be applied with brush, roller and spray. Primer is required before application.
Cement Based Terrace Waterproofing Materials
Cement-based products used in terrace and floor insulation are an economical option. The cement it contains provides high adhesion. It forms a waterproof layer and shows compatibility with concrete surfaces.
The mixing ratio of the material with water is as important as the cleaning of the surface before application. After reaching the right consistency, it is applied with a trowel or similar tool. After drying, it gains waterproofing feature.
How to Waterproof a Terrace?
Terrace waterproofing is of great importance for the protection of buildings and open spaces. These applications are mostly applied under tiles and ceramics on terraces. However, there are also waterproofing applications on tiles. There are also different options for concrete surfaces.
The application of insulation materials consists of several stages. All of these stages are very important and must be carried out with great care. Details about the stages in question are as follows:
Preparation
The relevant area is thoroughly cleaned before application. Residues, loose spots, deposits and dirt that will prevent adhesion and adhesion to the surface are removed. If deemed necessary, surface defects should be repaired with repair mortars. Preparation of the surface in every aspect directly affects the success of the process.
Insulation of Wall and Floor Joining Points
A significant portion of water leakage occurs at the joints of the floor and walls. To prevent this, waterproofing tapes (chamfer tapes) are applied to the relevant points. Quality tapes draw attention with their flexible and durable structures. This ensures long-lasting results.
The tapes should be applied carefully and no open spots should be left for water leaks. Other waterproofing materials used in corners can also be used at this point.
Application of Insulation Material
After the necessary preparations are completed, the insulation material is applied. A suitable insulation material is selected and applied in accordance with the instructions. Those in liquid form are applied by brush and roller. Those containing adhesives are adhered to the surfaces with their own methods.
It is important to create a homogeneous structure during application. No openings should be left at any point and the floor should be evaluated as a whole.
Finish Protection
After the insulation material is applied, ceramics and tiles are placed. Joint filling with waterproofing properties is applied between them. Grouting eliminates the risk of water leakage between the ceramics.
Things to Consider When Waterproofing a Terrace
There are some important points to be considered in order to get the desired result from terrace waterproofing. Details about these are as follows:
- Surface preparation must be done completely. Apart from the surface being clean, cracks should be closed. A smooth surface is the main criterion for successful results.
- Waterproofing materials The right choice must be made between them. The material should be decided by taking into account climatic conditions, applications on the ground and intensity of use. For example; products developed for walkable terrace insulation are ideal options for intensively used areas.
- It is very important that the application slopes towards the drain. The correct slope ensures that raindrops falling on the terrace are drained quickly and puddles do not form.
- The application must be carried out in accordance with the instructions.
These considerations may vary depending on the material chosen, surface characteristics, needs and expectations.
Which Insulation Material Should I Choose?
Perhaps the most important issue for achieving the desired result is the choice of material. There are many options for waterproofing. Which one to choose depends on the characteristics of the floor, budget and expectations. The details that should be known for the right material selection are as follows:
- Liquid membranes are one of the ideal options for concrete terraces. It is applied quickly after surface correction and leveling processes. These products, which are applied in at least two coats by spreading, are resistant to sunlight. There are different options as bitumen, elastomeric and polyurethane based. DryFix IZOLATOR is one of the ideal options for those who want elastomeric based products.
- Waterproofing materials on terrace tiles are preferred in areas where water leaks occur despite the previous application of ceramic and tiles. GLASSY 100 is a transparent product developed for liquid glass application. This product, which does not spoil the appearance of the floor, provides effective waterproofing on terraces.
- In areas where insulation will be done for the first time, under-tile insulation materials can be preferred.
Waterproofing terraces ensures the protection and longevity of structures. When the insulation is insufficient, the floors start to deteriorate first, and the water leaking from here negatively affects the walls and the ceiling downstairs. With the right choice of material for terrace insulation, all of these risks are eliminated.
If you want to see and get information about waterproofing materials that can be used on terraces, balconies or other areas, you can check our products in the relevant category.
