Top 10 Types of Waterproofing Chemicals Used in New Construction and Old Buildings

Types of Waterproofing Chemicals play a crucial role in safeguarding both new constructions and older buildings from moisture-related damage. These specialized chemicals form a water-resistant barrier that prevents leakage, seepage, and long-term structural weakening. Commonly used types include cementitious coatings, liquid waterproofing membranes, bituminous compounds, and polyurethane-based solutions. Each type is selected based on its application area—whether it’s terraces, basements, bathrooms, or exterior walls—ensuring maximum durability and long-term protection.

Why Choosing the Right Types of Waterproofing Chemicals Matters

When you consult a professional waterproofing company, they will typically introduce you to different types of waterproofing chemicals and recommend the most suitable solution for your specific requirements. However, it’s important to note that choosing the right chemical isn’t only about cost—an expensive product does not always guarantee the best results.

The ideal waterproofing solution depends on the part of the building you want to protect. Generally, waterproofing is applied in three key areas:

External walls and basement walls
Bathrooms, kitchens, and water tanks
Roofs, terraces, and balconies

Comprehensive Guide to the Types of Waterproofing Chemicals

With over 29+ years of professional waterproofing experience, we have identified the most effective solutions for various applications. Waterproofing not only protects your structure from water damage but also enhances its durability and maintains a leak-free environment.

Here is a detailed overview of the top types of waterproofing chemicals commonly used in construction, renovation, and industrial projects—along with their benefits and limitations:

1. Polymerised Silicone Vinyl, 2. Polyurethane Liquid Membrane, 3. Cementitious Coating, 4. Liquid Rubber Waterproofing, 5. Bituminous Membrane Coating,6. Rubberized Asphalt, 7. Thermoplastic Waterproofing, 8. PVC Waterproofing Membrane, 9. Crystalline Epoxy Coating, 10. Tar Sheet Waterproofing

Common Chemicals

No.1 Best Chemical -PSV

Polymerised Silicone Vinyl(PSV)

It is one of the most advanced types of waterproofing chemicals, combining silicone polymers, micro-fibres, and high-performance additives. This system is ideal for both new construction and old building repairs, offering superior moisture protection.

1. Polymerised Silicone Vinyl Waterproofing (PSv)

Top-performing waterproofing system for long-term protection

PSv is one of the most advanced types of waterproofing chemicals, combining silicone polymers, micro-fibers, and high-performance additives. This system is ideal for both new construction and old building repairs, offering superior moisture protection.

A. PSv Liquid
A liquid form that is mixed with white cement and water. Best suited for:
✅ External walls
✅ Basement walls
It creates a strong waterproof barrier and protects against moisture for years.
B. PSv-Premix
A ready-to-use waterproofing paste that requires only water — no cement mixing needed. It is highly effective for:
✅ Bathrooms and water tanks
✅ Roofs, terraces, and balconies

Advantages:
✔ No skilled labor or contractor required
✔ Affordable and easy to apply
✔ Always freshly packed — no old stock from distributors

2. Polyurethane Liquid Membrane

Flexible and seamless waterproofing for flat surfaces

Advantages:
✔ Excellent elasticity – adapts to surface movements
✔ Seamless application – reduces joint leakage risk
✔ Suitable for roofs and exposed areas

Disadvantages:
✘ Very sensitive to surface moisture during application – may lead to peeling or de-bonding
✘ Not ideal during monsoon or high humidity
✘ UV exposure over time can cause surface degradation in Indian heat

3. Cementitious Coating

Simple and cost-effective waterproofing for interiors

Advantages:
✔ Easy to apply – ideal for DIY or small projects
✔ Affordable and easily available materials
✔ Good for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens

Disadvantages:
✘ Rigid – can crack with structural movement
✘ Not UV-resistant – unsuitable for open terraces or roofs
✘ May peel or weaken in high heat zones like Rajasthan or Gujarat

4. Liquid Rubber Waterproofing

Modern solution with high flexibility and durability

Advantages:
✔ Excellent crack-bridging capacity
✔ Fast-drying and seamless application
✔ Strong adhesion – ideal for basements and roofs

Disadvantages:
✘ Costlier than traditional coatings
✘ May soften in extreme Indian heat, causing loss of elasticity
✘ Not suitable for heavy foot traffic without topcoat

5. Bituminous Membrane Coating

Traditional low-cost waterproofing for flat surfaces

Advantages:
✔ Economical solution for large areas
✔ Readily available and time-tested
✔ Easy to apply on low-slope roofs

Disadvantages:
✘ Poor resistance to heat – softens in summer, can cause bubbles or cracks
✘ Not eco-friendly – emits fumes when torch-applied
✘ Shorter life span compared to PSv or PU

6. Rubberised Asphalt

Heavy-duty waterproofing for commercial and industrial use

Advantages:
✔ Strong resistance to wear and tear
✔ Quick-drying formula speeds up work
✔ Works well in high-traffic areas like parking decks and bridges

Disadvantages:
✘ Requires professional tools and expertise
✘ Not suitable for small-scale residential use
✘ High surface temperatures in India can make it brittle over time

7. Thermoplastic Waterproofing

Versatile protection for industrial fabrics and flexible surfaces

Advantages:
✔ Lightweight and durable
✔ Excellent for flexible applications like tents, ducts, etc.
✔ Resists tearing and stretching

Disadvantages:
✘ Not designed for concrete or masonry structures
✘ Can melt or deform under extreme Indian summer heat
✘ Limited use in mainstream building waterproofing

8. PVC Waterproofing Membrane

UV-resistant and long-lasting solution for roofs

Advantages:
✔ High UV and heat resistance – ideal for Indian summers
✔ Long lifespan – 20+ years with proper installation
✔ Flexible and tear-resistant

Disadvantages:
✘ Requires heat-welding or mechanical fixing – not DIY friendly
✘ Higher material and labor cost
✘ Installation errors can lead to water seepage under membrane

9. Crystalline Epoxy Coating

Advanced chemical barrier for deep waterproofing

Advantages:
✔ Penetrates into concrete to block moisture pathways
✔ Long-term waterproofing – ideal for bridges, tanks, industrial floors
✔ Also improves surface strength and chemical resistance

Disadvantages:
✘ Costly and requires skilled application
✘ Not flexible – unsuitable for surfaces with high movement
✘ May crack in hot-and-cold temperature cycles if not reinforced

10. Tar Sheet Waterproofing

Old but widely used waterproofing system for terraces

Advantages:
✔ Cheap and widely available
✔ Effective for short-term protection
✔ Easy to roll and apply on flat roofs

Disadvantages:
✘ Single-ply sheets are weak – tear or crack under stress
✘ Not heat-resistant – melts or cracks in Indian summers
✘ Short lifespan – requires frequent maintenance or replacement

Why Choose This Ready-to-Use PSv-Premix Chemical?

Easy Application: The single-component formula makes WaterSeal PSv-Premix hassle-free for DIY users and professionals.
Superior Protection: Formulated with premium materials to create a long-lasting, crack-resistant shield.
Versatile Use: Ideal for terraces, basements, bathrooms, and concrete roofs.

Invest in your building’s longevity with WaterSeal PSv-Premix—the trusted, ready-to-use waterproofing solution that delivers peace of mind. Act now before water damage strikes!

Looking for professional terrace waterproofing? Visit our dedicated site at TerraceWaterproofing.com for expert guidance.

WaterSeal PSv-Premix Application Guide

Surface Preparation: Clean the surface thoroughly, removing dust and oil.
Crack Repair: Widen major cracks using an angle grinder or hammer.
1st Coat: Apply a mix of 1 part WaterSeal PSv-Premix + 2 parts clean water.
Crack Filling: Fill cracks and voids with undiluted WaterSeal PSv-Premix. (For detailed crack-filling instructions, click here.)
2nd & 3rd Coats: Apply subsequent layers with 1 part WaterSeal PSv-Premix + 1 part water.

For optimal results, use three coats with the recommended mixing ratio.

Drying & Coverage

Initial Drying: 30–60 minutes (daylight conditions).
Full Cure: 24 hours.
Coverage: 25 kg of WaterSeal PSv-Premix covers 750 to 900 sq ft. “Single coat”

Pro Tips:

We recommend: Three coats for maximum protection.
For enhanced Crack protection, pair with WaterSeal’s PPC Mat Strips

Talk To Our Experts And Get a Free Estimate for Waterproofing

These FAQs should provide you with a good starting point for understanding waterproofing Solutions. Remember that it's essential to consult with a professional water-proofing contractor for specific advice and solutions tailored to your needs.