Category: Structure & materials
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
Waterproofing is a layer that keeps water and damp out of concrete, steel and rooms, in foundations, bathrooms, kitchens, roofs and tanks.
Why it matters on a project
It costs little compared with fixing a leak after finishing, so it is flood-tested before being covered.
Measurement and pricing
Measured in square metres including upturns on walls and overlaps between rolls.
Worked example
A 2.0 × 2.5 m bathroom floor = 5.0 m², plus a 30 cm upturn on a 9 m perimeter = 2.7 m², total 7.7 m² before overlaps.
Common mistake
Tiling straight over it without a 48-hour flood test, or skipping collars around drains and pipes.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a flood test?
Usually 24 to 48 hours per the specification, while watching the ceiling below.
What is the best roof waterproofing?
It depends on the roof and its use; bitumen membranes and liquid systems such as polyurea are common, with protection on top.
Related terms
- Thermal insulationMaterials reducing heat transfer through walls and roofs, required by the Saudi Building Code.
- Ground beam (tie beam)A ground-level beam tying the footings and carrying walls at ground level.
- Flexible polyurea sealantA flexible joint filler tolerating movement and chemicals, used in industrial floors.
- Inspection request (IR)A formal request from the contractor to the consultant to inspect work before the next stage.
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