• Cementitious Waterproofing: Rigid systems using cement-based compounds, suitable for concrete and masonry surfaces.
• Liquid Membrane Waterproofing: Flexible liquid-applied coatings (e.g., acrylic, PU, bitumen-based) that form a seamless membrane.
• Bituminous Membrane Waterproofing: Sheet or liquid bitumen-based systems, commonly used for roofs and basements due to good adhesion and flexibility.
• PU/Polyurethane Based Waterproofing: High-performance elastic membranes known for their excellent elongation and crack-bridging properties.
• Crystalline Waterproofing: Penetrative treatment that reacts with concrete to form insoluble crystals, blocking pores and capillaries. Effective for positive and negative side applications.
• Injection Grouting: For sealing active leakages and cracks using materials like PU or epoxy resins.
• Integral Waterproofing: Additives mixed within concrete during batching to reduce permeability throughout the concrete matrix.

• Inspect for existing leakages and map their source points, including cracks, cold joints, and pipe penetrations.
• Identify and mark structural cracks, non-structural cracks, and movement/construction joints.
• Check moisture content of the substrate using a moisture meter (should be <4% for most liquid-applied systems, <8% for cementitious).
• Evaluate surface integrity and strength (e.g., pull-off test for adhesion) to ensure it can support the new waterproofing system.
• Conduct water ponding test (for horizontal surfaces) to identify low points, reverse slopes, and drainage issues.
• Document pre-existing conditions with photographs and a detailed inspection report.

• Remove all loose materials, dust, dirt, oil, paint, curing compounds, and efflorescence.
• Clean substrate using wire brush, grinding, scarifying, water jetting (min. 2000 psi), or sandblasting as appropriate for desired profile.
• Repair all cracks, honeycombs, spalled concrete, and other surface defects with non-shrink, polymer-modified repair mortar.
• Create proper covings/fillets (minimum 75mm x 75mm) at all wall-floor junctions, pipe penetrations, and corners using polymer-modified mortar.
• Treat construction joints and movement joints as per design (e.g., V-grooving, filling with backer rod and sealant).
• Ensure proper slope (minimum 1:100 for roofs and wet areas as per IS 3067) towards drainage outlets.
• Pre-treat all penetrations (pipes, conduits), drainage outlets, and upstands, ensuring they are properly sealed and integrated with the waterproofing system.
• Allow substrate to dry completely after cleaning and repairs before primer or waterproofing application.

• Wall-Floor Junctions: Essential to create a smooth transition to prevent stress concentration and ensure continuity of the membrane.
• Expansion Joints: Must be treated with flexible, movement-accommodating systems (e.g., PU sealants, pre-formed water stops) to prevent cracking of the waterproofing layer.
• Pipe Penetrations: Require collars or flanges that are securely sealed and integrated with the waterproofing membrane to prevent leaks around pipes.
• Drainage Outlets: Ensure proper slopes toward outlets and that the waterproofing system is seamlessly integrated into the drain flange or collar.
• Cracks: Structural cracks may require injection grouting, while non-structural cracks can be V-cut and filled with flexible repair mortar before waterproofing.
• Parapet Walls & Upstands: The waterproofing membrane must extend a minimum of 300mm up on vertical surfaces (parapet walls, columns, etc.) to prevent lateral water ingress.

Cementitious waterproofing combines cement with polymer additives to create a rigid or semi-flexible impermeable barrier. These systems must comply with IS 2645:2003 for integral waterproofing compounds and relevant parts of IS 16471 for polymer-modified mortars.

• Ensure the surface is clean, sound, and pre-wetted to Saturated Surface Dry (SSD) condition. No standing water.
• Prepare the mix as per manufacturer's specifications (e.g., 2:1 powder to liquid polymer ratio for two-component systems).
• Mix using a low-speed drill mixer (400-500 rpm) for 3-5 minutes until a lump-free, homogeneous slurry is achieved.
• Allow the mix to stand for 5 minutes (maturation time) before re-mixing and application.
• Apply the first coat using a stiff brush, roller, or spray, ensuring uniform coverage and working into the substrate pores. Apply in one direction (e.g., horizontal).
• Allow the first coat to cure for 4-6 hours (or as specified by manufacturer) until it is touch-dry but not fully hard.
• Apply the second coat in a perpendicular direction (e.g., vertical) to the first coat to ensure full coverage and minimize pinholes.
• For high-pressure areas or areas requiring higher flexibility, a third coat may be applied after another 6 hours.
• Apply reinforcement fabric (e.g., fiberglass mesh) between coats at critical junctions (covings, cracks) if required by the system.
• Total coating dry film thickness should generally be 2-2.5mm for two-coat systems, as per IS 3067 recommendations.

• Begin curing the applied coating as soon as it is touch-dry, typically within 6-12 hours of final coat application.
• Cure for a minimum of 3-7 days by mist spraying with water, covering with wet hessian cloth, or using a compatible curing compound.
• Protect the freshly applied coating from direct sunlight, heavy rain, frost, and mechanical damage during the curing period.
• For horizontal surfaces (e.g., terraces, bathrooms), conduct a water ponding test for 48-72 hours after the full curing period (e.g., after 7 days).
• Apply a protective screed (minimum 25mm thick) or tile adhesive layer over horizontal surfaces before traffic or finishes.
• For vertical surfaces, apply a polymer modified plaster protection layer if exposed to impact.

• Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, and primed with a bituminous primer (at a rate of 0.3-0.4 kg/m²) and allowed to dry completely (tacky to touch).
• Start membrane application from the lowest point of the slope or from the drain outlets, working upwards.
• Unroll the membrane and align it correctly. Re-roll halfway to begin the torching process.
• For torch-applied membranes: Evenly heat the underside of the membrane and the primed substrate simultaneously with a propane torch until the bitumen melts and forms a molten bead.
• Slowly unroll the membrane while applying continuous pressure with a roller to ensure full adhesion and remove trapped air bubbles.
• Maintain side overlaps of 75-100mm and end overlaps of 100-150mm. Ensure overlaps are clean and free from dust.
• Seal all overlaps by re-heating and pressing firmly with a trowel to create a monolithic seal. Check for proper bitumen extrusion at edges.
• Extend the membrane a minimum of 300mm up on parapet walls, columns, and other vertical surfaces, securing the top edge with a termination bar or aluminum flashing.
• Treat drain flanges and pipe penetrations with special care, ensuring the membrane is seamlessly integrated and sealed around them.
• For double layer application, apply the second layer perpendicular to the first layer, staggering the overlaps to avoid continuous seams.

• Ensure substrate temperature is between 10°C to 40°C. Do not apply during rain, on wet surfaces, or when temperatures are below dew point.
• Use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including heat-resistant gloves, safety shoes, goggles, and fire-resistant clothing for torch applications.
• Always have fire extinguishers (CO2 or dry chemical) readily available on site during torching operations. Never leave a lit torch unattended.
• Provide a protective screed (minimum 50mm thick, preferably reinforced) over horizontal membranes in trafficable areas or where finishes are to be applied.
• For exposed APP membranes, apply a UV protective coating (e.g., aluminum reflective paint or acrylic coating) to enhance durability and reduce heat absorption.
• Conduct a water ponding test for a minimum of 48-72 hours after the membrane application is complete and protected, to verify watertightness.

• Primer: Essential for adhesion to various substrates (concrete, metal, existing membranes). Typically epoxy or PU-based.
• Base Coat (Main Membrane): The primary liquid-applied PU waterproofing layer. Can be one-component (moisture-cured) or two-component.
• Reinforcement Fabric: Non-woven polyester fleece or fiberglass mesh, used at critical areas (joints, cracks, corners) and sometimes fully embedded for enhanced strength.
• Top Coat: An aliphatic (UV-stable) polyurethane top coat is applied for exposed applications (e.g., roofs) to protect the base coat from UV degradation and abrasion.
• Protection Layer: For trafficable areas, a protective screed, tiles, or specialized wearing course is applied over the PU membrane.

PU waterproofing systems provide high elasticity (typically 300-800%), excellent crack-bridging capabilities, and form a seamless, monolithic membrane without joints. They offer good chemical resistance and durability.

• Ensure the substrate is clean, dry (moisture content below 4%), and properly prepared with all repairs and covings in place.
• Apply the recommended primer uniformly at a rate of 0.2-0.3 kg/m² using a roller or brush. Allow it to dry for the specified time (typically 4-8 hours).
• Pre-treat all junctions, corners, pipe penetrations, and cracks by applying a layer of PU membrane and embedding a reinforcement fabric strip.
• Apply the first coat of the main PU membrane uniformly at a rate of 0.75-1.0 kg/m² using a roller or squeegee.
• If full reinforcement is specified, embed the polyester fleece into the wet first coat, ensuring no wrinkles or air bubbles.
• Allow the first coat to cure for 12-24 hours (cure time varies with temperature and humidity) until it is tack-free.
• Apply the second coat of the PU membrane at a similar rate (0.75-1.0 kg/m²), ensuring full coverage and perpendicular application to the first coat for optimal results.
• For exposed areas, apply an aliphatic (UV-stable) PU top coat after the second coat has fully cured (typically 24-48 hours).
• The total dry film thickness (DFT) of the PU membrane should be 1.5-2.0mm, depending on the product and application.
• Allow the entire system to achieve full cure (typically 7 days) before conducting water testing or applying subsequent finishes.

• Substrate moisture content must be below 4% (check with moisture meter).
• Ambient temperature: 5°C to 35°C (consult manufacturer for specific product ranges).
• Relative humidity: Below 85% (high humidity can affect curing of moisture-cured systems).
• Substrate temperature: Must be at least 3°C above the dew point to prevent condensation.
• Check wet film thickness during application using a wet film gauge to ensure correct material consumption.
• Verify coverage rate by calculating material consumption per unit area.
• Ensure uniform application without pinholes, bare spots, or excessive thickness in any area.
• Conduct adhesion test (pull-off test as per ASTM D4541) on cured membrane to verify bond strength (minimum 1.5 N/mm² or as specified).

Crystalline waterproofing is a unique technology where active chemicals in the product react with the free lime and moisture within concrete to form insoluble crystalline complexes. These crystals grow into the concrete matrix, blocking pores, capillaries, and micro-cracks, making the concrete impermeable to water.

• Penetrates deep into concrete (up to 300mm over time) through osmotic pressure and diffusion.
• Self-heals hairline cracks up to 0.4mm width by reactivating crystal growth in the presence of moisture.
• Remains dormant when the concrete is dry, but reactivates with any future water contact, providing continuous protection.
• Works effectively on both positive (water-facing) and negative (non-water-facing) sides of the concrete structure.
• Becomes an integral part of the concrete, not just a surface coating, offering permanent waterproofing.
• Contains no VOCs and is safe for potable water applications (ensure product specific certification).

• Surface Applied (Slurry Application):
  • Prepare the concrete substrate by cleaning and pre-wetting to Saturated Surface Dry (SSD) condition.
  • Prepare the crystalline slurry by mixing powder with water as per manufacturer's instructions (typically 2.5:1 to 3:1 powder to water ratio).
  • Apply the first coat at a rate of 0.8-1.0 kg/m² using a stiff brush or spray, ensuring uniform coverage.
  • Apply the second coat while the first is still tacky (usually 2-4 hours later), perpendicular to the first coat.
  • Keep the surface damp for 5-7 days by mist spraying or covering with wet hessian to ensure continuous crystal growth.
• Dry-Shake Method (for fresh concrete):
  • Apply the dry powder uniformly onto freshly placed concrete after initial set, typically at a rate of 1.0-1.2 kg/m².
  • Trowel the powder into the concrete surface during the finishing operations until it is fully absorbed.
  • Cure the concrete as per standard concrete curing requirements (ponding, wet curing) for optimal crystal development.
• Integral Method (Admixture):
  • Add the crystalline admixture to the concrete mix during batching, typically at 1-2% by weight of cement.
  • Ensure thorough mixing for a minimum of 5 minutes to ensure uniform dispersion.
  • Follow standard concrete placement, compaction, and curing procedures.

• Water Penetration Test: As per DIN 1048 Part 5, test concrete samples treated with crystalline waterproofing. Acceptance criteria typically specify a maximum water penetration depth (e.g., max 20mm).
• Water Permeability Test: ASTM D5084 or similar standards to measure the coefficient of permeability. Treated concrete should show significantly reduced permeability (e.g., <1×10⁻¹² m/s).
• Crystal Formation: Microscopic examination of core samples taken from treated concrete after 28 days to visually confirm crystal growth within the matrix.
• Drinking Water Safety: For water retaining structures, ensure the product has relevant certifications (e.g., NSF/ANSI 61) for contact with potable water.
• Adhesion Test: For surface-applied systems, conduct pull-off tests to ensure adequate bond strength to the substrate.

• Injection Pump: Manual, electric, or pneumatic, capable of delivering the required pressure and flow rate for the chosen grout type.
• Packers: Mechanical (drill-in type) or adhesive surface packers, selected based on crack type and access.
• Drilling Equipment: SDS drill with appropriate drill bits for creating injection holes.
• Injection Material: PU resin, epoxy resin, microfine cement, or acrylic gel, along with catalysts/hardeners as per product specifications.
• Surface Sealer: Fast-setting cementitious mortar or epoxy paste for sealing cracks on the surface before injection.
• Miscellaneous: Pressure gauges, mixing containers, stirrers, cleaning solvents, protective gear (gloves, goggles).

• Thoroughly map and mark all cracks, leakage points, and voids requiring injection.
• Drill injection holes at a 45° angle to intersect the crack plane, typically alternating sides of the crack.
• Determine the spacing between packers (typically 15-30cm) based on crack width, concrete thickness, and grout type.
• Clean the drilled holes using compressed air to remove dust and debris.
• Install the packers into the drilled holes and tighten them securely to prevent grout leakage.
• For visible cracks, seal the surface with a fast-setting cementitious mortar or epoxy paste and allow it to cure.
• Prepare the injection material as per the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring correct mixing ratios and pot life.
• Start injection from the lowest packer and move upwards. Connect the injection pump to the packer.
• Begin injecting the grout at a controlled pressure. Monitor the pressure gauge continuously.
• Continue injection until:
  • The grout emerges from the adjacent packer or from the crack surface.
  • Refusal is reached (a sudden spike in pressure without material flow, indicating the crack is full).
  • A predetermined quantity of grout has been injected.
• Close the valve on the current packer and move to the next one, repeating the process.
• After the grout has cured (as per manufacturer's specifications), remove the packers and patch the holes with a suitable repair mortar.

• **Material Certificates:** Verify manufacturer's test certificates (MTCs) for all incoming waterproofing materials, ensuring compliance with relevant IS codes and project specifications.
• **Water Impermeability Test:** Conduct laboratory tests on samples of waterproofing compounds or membranes to verify their water impermeability as per standards (e.g., IS 2645 for cementitious, IS 1322 for bitumen).
• **Shelf Life & Storage:** Check manufacturing and expiry dates. Ensure materials are stored as per manufacturer's recommendations (temperature, humidity, out of direct sunlight).
• **Membrane Properties:** For sheet membranes, verify thickness, tensile strength, elongation, and puncture resistance as per product data sheets.
• **Liquid Material Properties:** For liquid-applied systems, verify solid content, viscosity, pot life, and specific gravity of the mixed material.

• Water Ponding Test (for Horizontal Areas like Roofs, Terraces):
  • Create temporary barriers around the area to form a pond.
  • Fill the area with water to a minimum depth of 50mm.
  • Mark the initial water level and monitor for a minimum of 72 hours (or as per specification).
  • Thoroughly inspect the underside of the slab/structure for any signs of leakage, dampness, or watermarks.
  • Maximum acceptable water loss due to evaporation: typically 6mm over 24 hours. Any significant drop beyond this or visible leaks indicate failure.
• Flood Test (for Wet Areas like Bathrooms, Balconies):
  • Block all drains and create temporary dams at thresholds.
  • Fill the area with water to a depth of 25-50mm.
  • Maintain the water level for a minimum of 48 hours.
  • Inspect the floor below, adjacent walls, and ceiling for any signs of moisture or leakage.
  • Use a moisture meter to check for hidden dampness in adjacent areas.
• Spray Test (for Vertical Surfaces like Walls, Basements):
  • Apply continuous water spray from bottom to top of the waterproofed vertical surface.
  • Maintain continuous spray for a minimum of 2 hours.
  • Inspect the inside face of the wall for any signs of water penetration or dampness.

• **Toolbox Talks:** Conduct daily or weekly toolbox talks covering specific waterproofing procedures, safety measures, and quality checkpoints for the day's work.
• **Demonstration & Hands-on:** Provide practical demonstrations of mixing, application techniques, and detailing (e.g., coving formation, overlap sealing) before starting work. Allow trainees hands-on practice under supervision.
• **Checklist Implementation:** Utilize detailed checklists for each stage of waterproofing (surface preparation, priming, coating application, curing, testing) to ensure all steps are followed.
• **Immediate Feedback:** Provide immediate, constructive feedback to workers on their application techniques, material usage, and adherence to quality standards.
• **Material Handling & Storage:** Train staff on proper storage of waterproofing materials to prevent damage, contamination, and ensure shelf life.
• **Mock-ups/Test Areas:** For critical or complex applications, create small mock-up areas for training and approval before large-scale application.
• **Problem Solving:** Discuss common waterproofing failures and their causes, training staff on troubleshooting and corrective actions.
• **Supervisory Oversight:** Ensure continuous, qualified supervision during all critical stages of waterproofing application, especially during mixing and final coat application.

• Material Submittals: Comprehensive technical data sheets, safety data sheets (SDS), and manufacturer's test certificates for all waterproofing products used.
• Method Statement: A detailed document outlining the step-by-step application procedures, sequence of work, equipment, and quality control measures for each waterproofing system.
• Quality Control Plan (QCP): Outlines the inspection and test protocols, frequency of tests, responsible personnel, and acceptance criteria for all stages of waterproofing.
• Application Records: Daily progress reports, material batch numbers used, ambient temperature and humidity records during application, and names of applicators.
• Test Reports: Official reports for all field and laboratory tests conducted (e.g., moisture content, adhesion, DFT, ponding test results).
• Photographic Evidence: Comprehensive photo documentation of surface preparation, critical detailing (covings, pipe penetrations), application stages, and final completed work.
• As-Built Drawings: Final drawings showing the exact areas waterproofed, types of systems used, and locations of critical details.
• Warranty Certificate: A formal performance guarantee from the applicator and/or manufacturer, typically for a minimum of 5-10 years.
• Maintenance Manual: Instructions for periodic inspection, cleaning, preventive maintenance, and repair procedures for the installed waterproofing system.

• Periodic Inspection:
  • Inspect all waterproofed areas (especially roofs, terraces, and exposed areas) every 6-12 months.
  • Check for visible signs of distress: cracks, blisters, delamination, punctures, or erosion of the protective layer.
  • Inspect all drainage outlets, gutters, and downspouts for blockages or damage.
  • Examine junctions, terminations, and details around penetrations carefully for any signs of failure.
• Preventive Maintenance:
  • Regularly clean roof surfaces and drains to prevent accumulation of debris, leaves, and standing water.
  • Remove any vegetation or root growth from waterproofed areas promptly.
  • For exposed membranes (e.g., APP, some PU systems), reapply UV protective coatings every 3-5 years as recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Address minor damages, small cracks, or pinholes immediately with compatible repair materials to prevent escalation.
• Repair Procedures:
  • Identify the cause of the failure before attempting repairs.
  • Clean and prepare the damaged area thoroughly, removing all loose material.
  • Apply compatible repair materials (e.g., patch with similar membrane, liquid repair compound, injection grout).
  • Extend repairs a minimum of 150mm beyond the visibly damaged area to ensure full coverage.
  • Document all repair work, including date, type of repair, materials used, and responsible personnel.