Waterproofing membranes: types, uses and technical choices

Bituminous, synthetic and rubber membranes are the main types used to stop water infiltration. Each has its own uses and advantages. Bituminous membranes, based on bitumen, are ideal for roofs and underground walls, thanks to their high resistance.

Synthetics, such as PVC and TPO, offer superior protection against moisture on a variety of surfaces. Rubber, notably EPDM, is renowned for its durability and elasticity, making it ideal for flat roofs.

Choosing between these types depends on a number of factors, such as the structure to be protected, the surrounding environment, expected performance and available budget. The application of EPDM requires specific tools, with rapid installation estimated at 25 meters per hour.

However, poor sealing can lead to major damage, which is costly to repair.

The different types of waterproofing membrane

Bituminous membranes

Bituminous membranes consist mainly of modified bitumen. This product is well suited to roofing thanks to its water resistance and durability. They are often used to cover large surfaces such as terraces or foundations.

Their main qualities include high strength and long service life, essential for outdoor applications.

Laying them requires a certain amount of expertise, especially when the technique calls for hot application. This method can make the process more cumbersome, and requires special precautions.

Despite this challenge, their efficiency makes them a popular choice for many projects. However, their weight and the complexity of their installation represent limitations to be considered when choosing a sealing solution.

Their robustness and long service life make bituminous membranes a durable choice for roofing.

Synthetic membranes

Synthetic membranes such as PVC, TPO and EPDM are lightweight and easy to install. PVC is renowned for its affordability and chemical resistance, making it suitable for many applications.

However, EPDM takes the lead in terms of durability and ecology, offering long service life with reduced environmental impact. While TPO combines the advantages of PVC and EPDM, offering good UV resistance and exceptional flexibility, making it easy to install.

Each type has its own specific advantages, depending on the need. For EPDM roofing, we appreciate its flameless installation, making it a safe choice for sensitive areas.

Some synthetic membranes also benefit from specific properties such as the cool roof effect, capable of reflecting the sun's rays and lowering the building's temperature in summer. This type of membrane improves energy efficiency by significantly reducing air-conditioning requirements.

PVC is well suited to interior environments, thanks to its water vapor barrier. Finally, TPO is often chosen for projects requiring a wide, seamless membrane width, thanks to its ease of welding.

Liquid membranes

Liquid membranes include products such as PU (polyurethane), modified bitumen and various resins. These materials are easy to apply to irregular surfaces, making them ideal for renovation work or foundations.

They adhere directly to the substrate, forming a water- and weather-resistant layer. These membranes are often used in difficult-to-access or complex areas, where traditional membranes are unsuitable.

On the other hand, although they offer rapid installation and great flexibility, their durability can be inferior to that of synthetic or bituminous membranes.

The quality of their application has a major impact on their effectiveness: poor application can lead to adhesion defects, reducing their performance over time.

The choice between these membranes will therefore depend on the substrate, the environment and the need for a flexible, easy-to-install solution.

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How to choose your membrane according to substrate and use

Choosing a waterproofing membrane depends on the type of substrate and intended use. For roofs, slope and material (concrete, wood, metal) influence the decision.

An EPDM membrane works well on flat roofs. It adapts easily to different thicknesses and widths. For facades, you need to check the continuity of the envelope.

Thermal performance must also be taken into account to comply with building standards.

For buried walls, it's crucial to consider hydrostatic pressure. Membrane permeability plays a key role in these situations. Assessing the specific needs of the project can help avoid material damage and moisture problems.

Comparing the technical characteristics of each solution helps to make an informed and sustainable choice.

Roofing: slope, support (concrete, wood, metal), accessibility

Choosing a waterproofing membrane for your roof depends on a number of criteria. Slope, substrate type and accessibility all influence the choice.

• A sufficient slope ensures good water drainage. Flat roofs may require specific membranes such as bitumen or EPDM.
• Concrete provides a robust surface for bituminous membranes. Timber framing requires special attention to avoid moisture damage.
• Metal substrates require anti-corrosion treatment before installation. The use of suitable membranes such as PVC often proves judicious.
• Accessibility to the roof has an impact on the installation method. Where access is difficult, glued or mechanically fastened solutions are preferable.
• The choice of material depends on the local climate. In rainy regions, opt for a waterproof membrane such as FPO.
• Consider thermal insulation during installation. This improves interior comfort and reduces energy requirements.

These criteria guarantee watertightness and extend the life of your roof.

Facade: continuity of the envelope, thermal performance

Airtightness of the façade plays an essential role in the energy performance of a building. The treatment of joinery has a direct influence on this performance.

• Envelope continuity reduces thermal bridges. This improves thermal insulation and reduces energy loss.
• The membrane must be carefully laid around openings. Poor treatment can lead to air leakage, increasing energy consumption.
• Membranes such as PVC or bitumen provide a watertight seal. These materials are UV-resistant and offer enhanced durability.
• It's crucial to check every joint and fixing point. Particular attention here avoids future inconvenience.
• Choosing a thermally insulating cladding further enhances energy efficiency. Adding these elements protects the structure from the cold.
• Regular maintenance ensures the longevity of membranes used on facades. It also prevents the appearance of signs of wear and tear such as cracks or delamination.
• Local regulations often impose strict standards for these practices. They ensure that everyone complies with a minimum level of performance.
• Environmental impact is also becoming a major concern for many today. Opting for environmentally-friendly solutions promotes a more sustainable building in the long term.

In buried walls: hydrostatic pressure, permeability

Buried walls are subject to hydrostatic pressure. This pressure comes from the humidity in the soil. The choice of waterproofing membrane is therefore essential to ensure the durability of the structure.

• Hydrostatic pressure can cause water infiltration. An effective membrane creates a barrier against this moisture.
• Waterproofing underground walls prevents moisture problems. A damp wall weakens the structure and encourages mold growth.
• Choosing the right membrane helps manage permeability. Poor permeability can lead to rapid deterioration.
• Bituminous and synthetic membranes offer different characteristics. Each type meets specific needs depending on the terrain and environment.
• Careful installation is essential for optimum protection. A clean, even substrate is required before installation.
• Materials such as vapour-barrier membranes ensure effective control of internal humidity. They also promote healthy indoor air.

Taking these factors into account significantly improves building performance and extends its lifespan.

Application and installation of waterproofing membranes

Installing waterproofing membranes requires meticulous preparation. It all starts with the substrate. It must be clean and flat. A primer can be applied to ensure good adhesion.

Installation techniques vary according to the type of membrane. Gluing, mechanical fastening or welding are often used. The method chosen depends on the project and climatic conditions.

Installing a bituminous membrane requires special attention to detail.

There are a number of key steps to success. Continuity is essential to avoid water infiltration. Every corner and junction must be accurately surveyed.

Singular points, such as pipes or chimneys, require special treatment. For buried walls, the services of specialized professionals are recommended.

A moisture diagnosis should precede any work to identify the source of the problem. In some cases, Muretanche can offer solutions tailored to the moisture problems encountered.

Substrate preparation: cleanliness, flatness, bonding primer

Good substrate preparation ensures successful installation of waterproofing membranes. Many problems arise from this often neglected stage.

• Clean the substrate. Remove dust, debris and any impurities. A clean substrate guarantees better material adhesion.
• Check flatness. An uneven surface creates weak points for water. Use a level to confirm that the surface is flat.
• Apply a bonding primer. This product improves the adhesion of the membrane to the chosen substrate. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for drying time.
• Test temperature. Make sure it complies with the conditions recommended during installation.
• Make sure everything is dry before proceeding. Moisture can compromise the seal.
• Watch for signs of damage. Any cracks must be repaired before applying a vapour-barrier membrane or underlayment.

By following these steps, you optimize your chances of achieving a solid, long-lasting finish on your project.

Installation techniques: gluing, mechanical fastening, welding, spraying

Installation technique has a major influence on the effectiveness of waterproofing membranes. Choosing the right method ensures long-lasting, high-performance installation.

• Bonding uses contact adhesive. This technique is suitable for PVC and EPDM membranes. It requires a clean, dry substrate to ensure optimum adhesion.
• Mechanical fastening involves screws and fasteners. It adapts well to bituminous membranes. This system offers greater wind resistance, but requires more installation time.
• Welding joins the edges of the membranes by heat. Synthetic membranes, such as PVC, particularly benefit from this method. It creates a perfect seal, but requires mastery of the equipment.
• Spraying applies liquid membranes directly to the substrate. This technique easily covers complex shapes. It's ideal for areas with singular points that need to be treated effectively, such as in tunnels or under roofs.

This understanding of techniques helps to make an informed choice, depending on the type of membrane used and the accessibility of the worksite.

Key stages in a successful project: continuity, upstands, treatment of singular points

Proper installation guarantees the effectiveness of the waterproofing membrane. Careful detailing supports the durability of the job.

• Check dimensions before gluing. Make sure each section fits perfectly.
• Take precise readings for each element. Use a level to ensure horizontality and verticality.
• Take care with singular points. Apply corner reinforcements to prevent weakness.
• Incorporate drainage systems into your planning. This will reduce water pressure on the membranes.
• Use special adhesive strips when bonding. They improve watertightness around joints.
• Application tools must be adapted to the materials used. A good tool facilitates precise and efficient installation.
• Be aware of common problems such as delamination. Avoid this by correctly applying the primer to the substrate.
• Regularly check the continuity of the membrane during installation. This allows you to identify any errors instantly.

Each step contributes to a reliable, long-lasting waterproofing, essential to avoid infiltrations due to rain or ambient humidity.

Maintenance, repair and durability

Maintaining waterproofing membranes ensures their durability. Often, a moisture diagnosis before installation will prevent future problems. EPDM membranes, for example, remain flexible even in cold weather.

This extends their service life and facilitates repairs. Watch for signs of wear, such as blisters or cracks. Spot repairs such as patching or mastic help maintain membrane integrity.

Membranes should be chosen according to their environment and performance. This guarantees maximum efficiency over the long term. The use of materials such as PVC also contributes to their durability.

For a successful installation, it is essential to entrust the work to qualified professionals. Regular maintenance ensures that any signs of dampness are quickly detected and effective action taken.

Average service life by type of membrane (bitumen, EPDM, PVC...)

Here's an overview of average lifetimes for different types of waterproofing membranes, along with their average cost per square meter.

These values show that, despite a higher initial cost, the EPDM membrane offers a much longer service life than other types of membrane. Its weight of 1.5 kg/m² also plays a role in ease of installation and long-term savings. PVC membranes, on the other hand, offer a number of advantages: good UV resistance, rapid heat-welded installation and excellent adaptation to large, flat surfaces.

Signs of wear to watch out for: blisters, cracks, delamination

A waterproofing membrane requires regular attention. Signs of wear and tear can mean major material damage and high repair costs.

• Blisters: Watch for blisters on the membrane. They indicate poor adhesion or excess moisture. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious damage.
• Cracks: Check the membrane surface for cracks. Small cracks can grow rapidly, compromising waterproofing. This can lead to water infiltration and damage to roofing materials.
• Debonding: Inspect membrane edges regularly for debonding. Separation from the substrate indicates a loss of efficiency. This can lead to water infiltration and increase the risk of deterioration.

Carry out these checks every six months to ensure the integrity of your system. The use of products such as steam brakes or air isover can also help extend the life of your system.

Spot repairs: patch, putty, partial rework

Spot repairs are essential to maintain the watertightness of a membrane. Prompt intervention prevents health problems caused by humidity.

• Use a patch to cover damaged areas. This material adheres well and stops infiltration. It's ideal for small cracks or blisters in the membrane.
• Apply mastic around the edges of the membrane. This solution fills gaps and reinforces the seal. Mastic is UV and weather resistant, guaranteeing long-lasting protection.
• Partial repair when the surface is too damaged. This involves removing the damaged section and replacing it with a new membrane. This ensures optimum waterproofing continuity.
• Avoid poorly executed "stop-gap" repairs, which can exacerbate the problem. Poor bonding or grouting can create overlooked gaps, encouraging moisture ingress.
• Regularly watch for signs of wear, such as blistering or delamination. Careful attention will enable you to deal with the problem quickly, before it leads to more serious damage.

Performance criteria and certifications

Waterproofing membranes have several performance criteria. Tensile strength ensures product solidity. Membranes must also resist UV rays and perforation.

Waterproofing is an essential criterion. Good vapor permeability protects structures from damage. To guarantee this performance, membranes are awarded various certifications.

Certifications such as CE, Avis Techniques and ATEx guarantee product quality. ETE confirms compliance with standards. These labels reassure users of the reliability of their choice.

By examining these criteria, you can make an informed choice when making your purchase.

Tensile strength, UV resistance, puncture resistance

Tensile strength is crucial to the durability of waterproofing membranes. A membrane must withstand forces without tearing. A minimum tensile strength of 200 N/5 cm is often recommended for roofing applications.

Membranes must also be UV-resistant. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can alter their performance. High-performance membranes retain their aesthetic and functional integrity after several years in the sun.

Finally, puncture resistance protects against physical damage. A good membrane must withstand impacts without perforating. This is particularly important in areas where objects can fall onto waterproof surfaces.

Waterproofing, vapor permeability

Waterproofing protects surfaces from infiltration. On a roof, for example, a good membrane prevents rainwater from penetrating. Bituminous and synthetic membranes offer excellent waterproofing.

They form an effective barrier against moisture.

Vapor permeability concerns interior walls. It allows water vapor to circulate to prevent condensation. Membranes such as EPDM let this vapour through while blocking the water.

This keeps buried walls healthy and moisture-free, while improving interior comfort.

Certifications: CE, Avis Techniques, ATEx, ETE

Certifications guarantee the quality of waterproofing membranes. The CE label certifies that the product complies with European standards. Avis Techniques provide information on the performance of materials under specific conditions.

ATEx confirms that the product is suitable for buildings with special requirements. ETE assesses efficiency and durability. These labels ensure the reliability of our membranes, and offer protection against ten-year insurance claims.

Choosing a membrane with these certifications enhances confidence in its use. They guarantee compliance and safety during installation. Membranes such as EPDM polymer often benefit from these labels.

These certifications reassure industry professionals about the durability and resilience of materials used in construction projects.

Focus on EPDM: a durable, versatile solution

EPDM has established itself as a durable solution for flat roofs. Its resistance to weathering and temperature variations makes it an ideal choice. This flexible membrane also performs well against UV rays.

Various thicknesses and widths are available to adapt it to different projects. Installing an EPDM membrane requires checking the dimensions of the substrate. Correct application of the adhesive is essential to ensure its effectiveness.

For underground walls and foundations, EPDM effectively prevents water infiltration. In the event of snags, repairs can easily be made with adhesive patches.

Muretanche, a major player in the market, offers free moisture diagnostics. These services help to identify and solve moisture problems. This approach reinforces the commitment to sustainable and reliable environmental solutions in construction.

Why EPDM has become standard on flat roofs

EPDM has become the standard for flat roofs thanks to its long service life and ease of application. The membrane has an average lifespan of 50 years.

It is highly flexible, making it easy to adapt to different roof shapes.

Glue-down installation simplifies installation work. vario xtra membranes are ideal for use with under-roof membranes, providing optimum waterproofing.

With its low carbon footprint and recyclability, EPDM also meets growing environmental demands.

Environmental benefits: low carbon impact, long service life

EPDM is distinguished by its low carbon footprint. Its production consumes less energy than that of other membranes. What's more, it has a long service life, often exceeding 50 years.

This reduces the frequency of replacement and cuts waste. EPDM's recyclability makes it an eco-responsible choice. Construction sites can incorporate EPDM waste into new products.

Biosourced and recycled membranes are emerging as innovative alternatives. These new options support the HQE and BREEAM approaches. They aim to improve building efficiency while preserving the environment.

There is growing interest in these solutions, promoting a sustainable future in the construction sector.

Easy to install and recyclable

EPDM is perfectly suited to self-construction and renovation. The material is available in rolls or kits. These formats simplify handling and installation.

Users can install the membrane easily, even without prior experience.

Another advantage of this product is its recyclability. EPDM has a low carbon footprint. Its long service life means fewer replacements.

At the end of its life, it can often be recycled, adding an ecological dimension to its use. The associated adhesives and primers guarantee efficient installation and a good seal.

Towards more durable, circular membranes?

Waterproofing membranes are evolving towards more sustainable, circular solutions. Current innovations include bio-sourced and recycled membranes. These new materials aim to reduce carbon impact.

Certifications such as HQE and BREEAM encourage this approach. They guarantee ecological performance while maintaining high resistance.

Membranes such as vario xtra offer interesting properties. They incorporate vapour-barrier features. This approach ensures better moisture management in buildings.

Environmentally-friendly products are gaining in popularity thanks to their recyclability and low impact on the planet.

Innovations: biosourced, recycled, low-carbon impact membranes

New waterproofing membranes are emerging on the market. These innovations are particularly environmentally friendly.

• Biosourced membranes come from renewable resources. They reduce the carbon footprint of buildings.
• Recycled systems recover used materials. This reduces waste and promotes a circular economy.
• Numerous studies show that these membranes offer equivalent performance to traditional products. They therefore offer a good sustainable alternative.
• A recent patent presents a low-carbon impact membrane, combining efficiency and respect for the environment. This development could transform current construction practices.
• Certifications such as CE and ATEx guarantee the quality of these new technologies. This reassures building professionals and consumers alike.
• Muretanche also specializes in these ecological solutions, with 15 years' experience in the field. Their expertise is asserted in the face of modern waterproofing challenges while preserving our planet.

Integration into HQE, BREEAM, RE2020 approaches

Sustainable membranes play an essential role in HQE, BREEAM and RE2020 certified projects. They contribute to the energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact of buildings.

By integrating membranes such as EPDM, we achieve reliable watertightness for buried walls, thanks to a casing that guarantees 100% watertightness.

These certification processes promote the use of environmentally-friendly materials. For example, biosourced or recycled membranes can be explored. These innovative solutions enhance the durability of buildings, reduce long-term costs and meet growing expectations in terms of environmental performance.

Conclusion

Choosing the right waterproofing membrane requires consideration of several criteria. Analyze the intended use, budget and durability of each option. Also look for a qualified professional to guarantee a solid installation.

The right choice protects your building in the long term. Don't overlook these key elements to avoid future problems.

FAQ

1. What is a waterproofing membrane?

A waterproofing membrane is a material used to prevent water or other liquids from penetrating certain areas. It is often made of materials such as glass fleece.

2. What are the different types of waterproofing membrane?

There are several types of waterproofing membrane, including vario xtra and vapor barrier. Each has specific uses and different technical characteristics.

3. How do I choose the right waterproofing membrane?

Choosing the right waterproofing membrane depends on its intended use. The product's safety data and technical specifications must be taken into account.

4. Where can I find more information on the use of waterproofing membranes?

There are many online resources, including videos, that provide detailed information on the use and selection of waterproofing membranes.

To find out more :

• EPDM membrane for flat roofs: advantages and disadvantages