Waterproofing is an important process for every building as it helps to protect it from water damage and maintain its structural integrity. Regardless of the function of the building, infiltration can cause significant problems such as mold growth and structural damage. That’s why it is so important to choose the right waterproofing solution to ensure long-term protection against water and other liquids.

In today’s article we have prepared as Baumerk, construction chemicals specialist, we will answer questions such as what is crystalline waterproofing, where is it used and what are its benefits. Whether you are a construction professional, property owner, or simply interested in learning more about waterproofing solutions, our article will provide you with valuable information about the advantages of using crystalline waterproofing for your next project!

You can also take a look at our content titled Things to Know About Basement Waterproofing to understand the importance of waterproofing before moving on to our article! 

What is Crystalline Waterproofing?

Crystalline waterproofing is an innovative product in the construction industry and a special waterproofing method. This type of waterproofing is a unique concrete admixture that is added directly to the concrete mixer to create a barrier against water.

Unlike other waterproofing solutions, such as membranes or coatings applied to the surface of the structure, crystalline waterproofing works by penetrating into the pores and capillaries of concrete and wall materials. Once the material penetrates the surface, it reacts with the water and chemicals in the concrete to form microscopic crystals that grow and expand within the concrete.

As these crystals continue to grow, they fill gaps or cracks in the concrete, effectively preventing more water from passing through. This process not only creates a waterproof barrier but also strengthens the concrete, making it more durable and resistant to water damage over time.

The crystalline waterproofing is continuously active during the curing period and every time it comes into contact with water, filling the capillary spaces in the concrete with insoluble nano-sized crystals to provide a permanent seal. Concrete containing crystalline waterproofing admixtures gains stronger waterproofing properties every time it comes into contact with water. 

Crystalline concrete waterproofing admixtures are suitable for application in a wide range of areas including foundations, basements, tunnels, swimming pools, and more. Being an environmentally friendly and easy-to-apply waterproofing solution has made it increasingly popular in recent years. 

Reinforced concrete structures prepared with crystalline concrete waterproofing admixtures provide easy and effective waterproofing as they do not require an additional waterproofing product. Crystalline concrete waterproofing admixtures protect the concrete to which they are applied against positive and negative water pressure. Thus, reinforced concrete structures gain a strong waterproofing feature both against water from the soil and from the external environment.

How to Apply Crystalline Waterproofing?

Crystalline concrete admixtures are available in liquid or powder form. Its application is easily made ready by adding it as an additive material before concrete pouring. If the application is to be made at the construction site; crystalline concrete admixture is added into the concrete ready to be poured in the concrete mixer at the rate of 2% of the cement weight and mixed for about 5 minutes without delay. 

If the application is to be made in the concrete batching plant, the crystalline concrete admixture product is added to the concrete mix water and this mixture is added to the concrete as the last component. The active working time of the product is approximately 45 minutes after it is added to the mixture.

Where is Crystalline Waterproofing Used?

Crystalline waterproofing is a product that creates a waterproof coating, making the structure watertight whenever water comes into contact with concrete. For this reason, crystalline waterproofing materials can be used in many areas where water can seep in.

1. Roofs

Roofs are one of the places where most water accumulates and can seep in during rainy weather. Crystalline waterproofing materials are an ideal solution for protecting roofs against water. Crystalline waterproofing ensures the longevity of roofs and prevents water leakage, moisture, and fungal formations that may occur on roofs.

2. Basements

Basements are another place where water can seep in. Crystalline waterproofing materials protect the structure in basements against water that can be exposed from inside and outside. Thus, it protects the structure from the foundation. 

3. Terraces

Since terraces are in open areas, water leakage can be a problem in rainy weather. Crystalline waterproofing materials ensure that terraces are protected against water and last longer.

4. Wet Areas

Wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens require a waterproof coating. Crystalline waterproofing materials are used in wet areas to prevent problems such as water infiltration and moisture formation.

What are the Benefits of Crystalline Waterproofing?

There are various benefits of using crystalline waterproofing in all types of building projects.    Due to its special formulation, when the concretes to which it is added as an additive material come into contact with water, they form a crystalline structure spontaneously, filling the capillary spaces in the concrete and creating a waterproof structure. Let’s take a look at the most important of these benefits!

1. Long Lasting Protection 

Long-lasting protection is one of the most important benefits of using crystalline waterproofing. When applied correctly, it can provide an impenetrable barrier to water and other liquids for the lifetime of the concrete or masonry structure. 

This is because once applied, the crystals that form continue to grow and expand within the concrete, effectively filling any gaps or cracks and preventing water from passing through. This process creates a permanent waterproofing barrier that does not degrade over time, providing long-lasting protection against water damage and making crystalline waterproofing an ideal solution for structures.

2. Durability

Durability is another important benefit of crystalline waterproofing. In the projects where it is applied, it can help to extend the life of the structure and increase its overall durability.

As we mentioned earlier, microscopic crystals that grow within the capillaries of the concrete after the application of crystalline waterproofing fill gaps or cracks in the concrete, effectively protecting it from water and other liquids and increasing durability.

3. Affordable Cost

Although the initial cost of crystalline waterproofing is higher than other waterproofing methods, it provides cost savings in the long term by reducing the need for maintenance and repair.

4. Easy Application

The fact that it is also easy to apply means that construction professionals can complete the waterproofing process quickly and efficiently, reducing labor costs and project timelines. In addition, crystalline concrete admixed products do not require additional waterproofing, making them easy to apply.

5. Environmentally Friendly

Another important advantage of crystalline waterproofing is its environmental friendliness. It is a non-toxic and sustainable solution that can help reduce the environmental impact of construction projects. It does not release any toxic fumes or harmful substances into the air, making it a safer option for both workers and the environment.

It is important to note that while crystalline waterproofing is an effective waterproofing solution for many construction projects, it may not be suitable for every situation. Factors such as the type of structure, the severity of the water problem, and the climate should be taken into consideration when determining the best waterproofing solution.

You can find out which waterproofing material you should use according to your needs by reading our content titled What are the Waterproofing Materials?: All Types, Uses and Features

To summarize, crystalline waterproofing is an effective and long-lasting method for waterproofing structures. It works by creating a barrier within the concrete that prevents water from penetrating the surface. With many benefits such as long-term protection, durability, and low cost, crystalline waterproofing is becoming increasingly popular for waterproofing projects.

You can also examine Baumerk’s specially produced Crystalline Waterproofing Powder Concrete Admixture – CRYSTAL PW 25 and Crystalline Waterproofing Liquid Concrete Admixture – CRYSTAL C 320, which are among Baumerk’s construction chemicals for your insulation needs in your constructions. Also, let us remind you that you can contact Baumerk for any questions you may have!