Rating of the best waterproofing for 2024

Competent waterproofing is absolutely necessary for every home and room, because moisture can come from almost any side. Groundwater can damage the foundation, raindrops can penetrate through the smallest cracks in the roof, layers of snow can accumulate on the roof for a long time, and then (during melting) penetrate into the structure, simultaneously deforming the roofing. The builders of dams, swimming pools and other hydrotechnical facilities are well aware of the harmful effects of the interaction of building materials with moisture. However, they are also familiar with the ways of solving this problem. The methods and materials through the use of which you can save your home from excessive moisture are extremely diverse. And then a logical question arises - which one is better?

Varieties of materials and methods of waterproofing

It is customary to call waterproofing materials a compacted layer with waterproof characteristics, which is applied to some elements of the structure. These materials themselves are often divided into special groups, depending on the method of their integration. Standard waterproofing can be:

• Okalechnaya;
• Painting;
• Coating;
• Penetrating;
• Injection;
• Sprayed;
• Plastering.

The most common

Paint shop moisture insulation is the thinnest film that forms when the base is painted with mastic, special paint or varnish, bitumen, etc. Naturally, these mixtures contain special ingredients that are in plastic / liquid form. Most often, bituminous mastics are used today, containing fluff lime, asbestos or talc. Also, paintwork materials based on plastics or synthetic resins differ in efficiency. As a rule, before applying these materials, they are slightly warmed up (here it is necessary to use the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the required heating temperature), but bituminous mastics should be heated very strongly - up to 170 degrees Celsius. This is because they will need to be applied in two or three layers and each must be at least 2 mm thick. But for synthetic compounds, one layer 1 mm thick is enough.

IMPORTANT! Bituminous mastics should not be used even in a heated state if the ambient temperature is below +5 Celsius.

Okleechnoye waterproofing is the process of gluing special roll / sheet materials to the surface to be treated, which are fixed with hot / cold bitumen mastics. Also, synthetic-based resins can be used as an adhesive base. To implement this type of insulation, the following materials that are resistant to decay processes can be used:

• PVC and polyethylene films;
• Reinforced asphalt mats;
• Brizol, Isol, Hydroizol, Foilgoizol and Metalloizol;
• Glass fiber and glass roofing material.

It is easiest to use roll waterproofing on horizontal areas. However, rolls with a cardboard base (roofing felt, roofing felt or glassine) are not suitable for the pasting method. The canvas should be installed with an overlap of 10 cm, and in such a way as to prevent the overlap of the joints of adjacent elements.

IMPORTANT! When processing horizontal surfaces, part of the material must be "brought" onto a vertical surface (wall) in order to increase the waterproofing effect of pasting. To do this, the wall must first be leveled, because if there is a drop of more than 2 mm, then it can lead to deformation and general damage to the insulation layer.

Coating waterproofing is used for concrete / cement / brick substrates and consists of one- or two-component elastic mixtures, which are applied in several layers. This method is considered to be extremely effective when arranging pools and basements, as well as when sealing leaks. It is worth noting that bitumen / mastics / sealants are very toxic and can only be used on a dry base. From this it is clear that the use of a two-component polyurethane composition will be preferable.

Plastering Insulation means covering the surface in several layers (with a thickness of 5 to 40 mm) using cement plaster with water repellents or mineral fillers - they are best suited for the treatment of rooms with high humidity (artificial small ponds, swimming pools, bathrooms). For rooms where humidity is especially abundant, asphalt plaster based on cold / hot mastics can be used. In this case, they should be laid in two or three layers (each with a thickness of 2-4 mm), especially in places where there is a risk of a breakthrough of the hydraulic head.

IMPORTANT! When plastering vertical surfaces, the treated areas should be additionally reinforced with bricks reinforced with mesh or concrete. And when insulating horizontal surfaces in a similar way, they are protected with a cement / concrete screed or poured asphalt mixtures (usually hot mortars or mastic), which are poured between the protective wall and the base base.

The most effective

Penetrating the method is considered to be both the most popular and the most effective at the same time. It consists in the fact that the waterproofing layer fills all possible pores of the base, penetrating into the structure of the material to a depth of 20 cm. Thus, the layer simply displaces moisture and creates inseparable joints at a depth. The undoubted advantages of this method include:

• No need for priming the treated surface;
• The applied composition simultaneously repairs all existing cracks;
• On a concrete base, the strength increases by at least 20%;
• Air exchange parameters are not violated;
• The surface becomes more resistant to low temperatures;
• There is no need to apply an additional protective layer.

Sprayed the method of waterproofing is to install airless spraying by means of a spray gun. As a result, a membrane base will be created, which can consist of ultra-high strength polyurethane / bitumen / acrylic sprayed materials.This method is considered the most versatile, because the materials used for its production very successfully resist not only moisture, but other more aggressive substances. In addition, the formed surface will have pronounced anti-slip and anti-corrosion properties that will last for up to 50 years.

Injectable waterproofing method means the use of polyurethane / acrylate / silicate resins or cement and special emulsions. It is especially effective when it is necessary to process various abutments, expansion and cold seams, and patching up hard-to-reach places. The degree of penetration of mixtures into the right places is very high - for example, acrylate gel penetrates into cracks as well as water. However, this method is very expensive and requires the participation of a professional in the process. As a rule, it is used along with the other methods described above as an additional operation to strengthen precisely those places where it is impossible to mount waterproofing otherwise.

Certain technical features of the choice of method and application of waterproofing

Before starting the waterproofing procedure, you need to decide on the type of base on which the composition will be applied. For example, it is better to cover concrete with a plastering method; for wood, the pasting method using roofing felt is preferable. You also need to pay close attention to the following points:

• The peculiarities of the environmental conditions;
• Estimated service life;
• Are there any special requirements for the installation process;
• What is the level of installation complexity;
• Is the future load great?
• All this will directly affect the choice of material and method of waterproofing.

It is worth noting that waterproofing of parts of the foundation should be taken care of even at the construction stage. Mistakes that may have been made during that period may later require significant efforts in the form of unplanned repairs. For example, vertical waterproofing of the foundation should be carried out using a pasting method. Construction professionals advise to select durable roll materials for these purposes, such as ecoflex, isoelast, bikroplast, isoplast - all of them are the next generation of insulating materials. And, of course, experts advise to entrust the implementation of these works to professionals.

In the course of using coating materials, bituminous mastics are most often used due to their low cost. However, the process of their application is rather laborious. But a non-professional can cope with bitumen-polymer mastic: it lays down easier, and its consumption per square meter is less.

IMPORTANT! When purchasing a cement-based mastic, make sure that its moisture resistance value exceeds the W10 indicator. This parameter is indicated on the package.

For work in small areas, professionals advise using penetrating waterproofing. For example, by simply applying it to concrete, the mixture will qualitatively penetrate into the base structure and form insoluble crystals there, which will protect the treated surface from water with maximum reliability. Indeed, this method is very effective and it is even desirable for them to carry out all the processing of the foundation, however, not everyone can afford such a procedure due to the high cost of materials.

In turn, it is better to isolate the floor from moisture by means of paintwork materials, because they are easy to use. However, depending on the conditions (for example, if the structure is located in a periodically heated zone), filling, impregnating, plastering or pasting methods will be acceptable options. It should always be remembered that waterproofing work requires a continuous process.

Foundation works

Their complexity lies in the fact that the layer should not only protect the structure from water, but also prevent the ingress of groundwater into the basement.The use of various waterproofing materials will depend on the depth of the foundation and the level of soil flow. In very simple cases, it is possible to use a profiled membrane based on polymers, and use a coating compound for the interior treatment of the basement. The profiled membrane on a polymer base will also be able to protect the base from tree roots, sharp debris from construction debris, while simultaneously performing a drainage function. It is impossible to ignore the above-ground elements of the foundation. When processing them, take into account the environmental conditions. For temperate climates, coating insulation using an impregnating bitumen-polymer mastic is suitable. And in a harsh climate, which is characterized by sharp changes in temperature, it is preferable to do the processing by pasting with rolls or use a penetrating method - all this will significantly increase the strength of the base.

Works on wooden structures

Wood is extremely susceptible to destruction from water, therefore, in 99% of cases, constant dampness leads to the appearance of fungus and mold, as well as the reproduction of woodworm beetles and harmful bacteria. Most microorganisms growing in wet wood can harm human life and health. In the event that the initial waterproofing was not performed properly, there is no doubt that waterproofing repairs will be needed in the very near future. Insulation must be performed in a complex, which will require:

• Think over and competently mount a drainage system (downpipes, metal cornices, etc.);
• Organize the necessary ventilation, because the wood base must be ventilated permanently (the best solution is to install a ventilated facade);
• Carry out biosecurity of wooden structures.

To enhance the protection of the log (cobbled) facade from moisture, you can use colorless paint mastic. It is enough to coat the entire outer surface of the house with it (preferably in 3 layers or more), and then cover it with an antibacterial primer. If the house consists of frame-panel elements, then you can lay a waterproofing film on them, coupled with insulation.

Roof work

The device of a sloping roof is a system of rafters, on which roofing elements are installed ("soft roof" / corrugated board / metal tile). Due to the level of the inlet, it is completely sealed in itself, however, there is a possibility of leakage. A particularly dangerous situation may arise if a strong wind rips off part of the roofing elements and raindrops fall on the insulation, as a result of which it gets wet, loses its thermal insulation characteristics, and the rafters that become wet with it begin to rot. Therefore, for a greater guarantee, it is required to lay a special waterproofing polymer membrane between the roofing material and the insulation.

In turn, flat roofs are a monolithic solid surface. Here you can already use a variety of protection options - roll, and coating, and penetrating, and sprayed coating. At the same time, the waterproofing material of a flat roof can be immediately and roofing and at the same time withstand both bad weather and mechanical stress.

Works in swimming pools and artificial reservoirs

In this case, you may need special solutions. The main problem lies not only in the fact that vertical walls are in constant contact with moisture, but also in the fact that it permanently exerts mechanical pressure on the entire structure. Thus, the deeper the pool or artificial pond, the greater the risk of hydro-pressure leakage due to increased pressure.Therefore, for protection, it is advisable to use reliable insulating materials based on a cement base, which, moreover, must firmly hold the facing tile. Experts advise to entrust such work exclusively to professionals in this field.

Wall and floor protection works in bathrooms

Here it is better to give preference to the painting method of waterproofing through the use of cold types of mastic. It is quite possible to apply it yourself using standard brushes. It is advisable to apply in three layers, while the approach to a vertical wall can vary from three to twenty-five centimeters.

IMPORTANT! If a "warm floor" system is installed in the bathroom, it should be remembered that materials expand when heated, and shrink when cooled. Thus, the use of rigid protection based on a cement base is completely unacceptable, since it will crack quickly. It is best to apply glued moisture insulation by means of sheet / roll material, while the installation should be "overlapped" and be smeared at the joints with mastic or be glued with special construction adhesive tape.

Rating of the best waterproofing for 2024

For swimming pools

2nd place: Plitonit Hydro Elast

Standard polymer mixture for waterproofing swimming pools and small artificial reservoirs. Works great on many solid bases, however, the operating temperature difference is small, which means use only during warm periods. Not suitable for independent use.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Base used	Polymer
Base	Concrete, reinforced concrete, brick
Packing size, kg or l	4
Price, rubles	1300

• Applicable to many solid bases;
• Has a polymer base;
• Dries relatively quickly (2 days).

• High price for a small volume of sales packaging.

1st place: "Penetron"

Long-lasting and frost-resistant material, extremely resistant not only to moisture, but also to corrosive chemicals. Possesses increased adhesion (adhesion) properties - perfectly holds facing tiles. At the same time it can be used as a repair mixture for sealing active leaks.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Base used	Polymer
Base	Concrete, reinforced concrete
Packing size, kg or l	5
Price, rubles	1800

• There is no unpleasant smell;
• Versatile (can be used for repairs);
• Contains antibacterial ingredients.

• High consumption per unit area.

For bathrooms

2nd place: "Hidroflex" LITOKOL

One-component blend, supplied in paste form, based on synthetic resins. Does not contain third-party solvents and has an economical consumption per unit of treated area. The composition contains inert fillers, which means an increased operational life.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Italy
Base used	Synthetic resins
Base	Concrete, brick
Packing size, kg or l	5
Price, rubles	1500

• No need to use third-party solvents;
• It is economically consumed;
• Has a reasonable price.

• Designed for small spaces only.

1st place: Kerakoll "Nanodefense Eco"

A ready-made compound using a water base. It is applied on absorbent substrates in rooms with high humidity. It can be used as a preliminary primer on which tiles can be attached later. It successfully resists not only moisture, but also steam (can be used in saunas and baths).

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Italy
Base used	Polyurethane
Base	Concrete, brick
Packing size, kg or l	15
Price, rubles	9000

• Large packing volume;
• Actual price;
• Multifunctionality.

• Not found (for its segment).

For roofing

2nd place: Mastic "Slavyanka"

An inexpensive sample of bitumen-polymer mastic, perfect for all types of roofing. Works equally well on metal and wood. Allowed to use in conjunction with reinforced glass mesh or fiberglass. More focused on horizontal surfaces.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Base used	Bitumen-polymer
Base	Metal and wood
Packing size, kg or l	20
Price, rubles	4000

• Large sales volume;
• Low price;
• Versatility of application.

• More focused on horizontal surfaces.

1st place: Roll waterproofing for roofs "Technonikol"

An excellent example of domestic self-adhesive material for roofing. The composition includes a bitumen-polymer membrane capable of retaining a large amount of moisture. The roll is intended for covering both horizontal and vertical surfaces, which is provided by a self-adhesive backing.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Base used	Polyester
Base	Metal, wood, reinforced concrete
Packing size, kg or l	5
Price, rubles	2400

• Self-adhesive base;
• Operating temperature increased (up to +100 degrees Celsius);
• Convenient delivery form.

• Small roll size for the covered area (1 m by 8 m)

For basements

2nd place: "PBK Liquid Hydroizol"

A popular sample of one-component polymer-bitumen rubber. Designed for waterproofing basements. Perfect for hard-to-reach areas and fits perfectly on any surface. Unpretentious to the harmful effects of the environment.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Base used	Rubber (synthetic rubber)
Base	Concrete and reinforced concrete
Packing size, kg or l	20
Price, rubles	2800

• Versatility;
• High level of adhesion to any surface;
• Can be used for hard-to-reach places.

• Not found.

1st place: "HIDROSTOP KIT"

An excellent fast acting waterproofing compound - drying time 20 minutes! Works great on both vertical and horizontal surfaces. It can be used as a repair material. It copes equally well with monolithic and prefabricated structures.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Slovenia
Base used	Cement
Base	Concrete and reinforced concrete
Packing size, kg or l	25
Price, rubles	2200

• Large sales volume;
• There is a polymineral base;
• Works on concrete and reinforced concrete.

• The composition is supplied in dry form, requires preliminary mixing and thickening.

For the foundation

2nd place: "Sinzatim Elastic" (Barrier)

This mixture forms the thinnest multi-layer coating of 2-5 mm, which provides the required level of waterproofness due to a special granular composition. The formula contains special antibacterial ingredients. The binder has increased functionality, the second applied layer will completely eliminate microcracks and ensure pore sealing.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Base used	Cement-polymer
Base	Concrete and reinforced concrete
Packing size, kg or l	25
Price, rubles	2200

• Excellent value for money;
• The composition contains an innovative binder formula;
• Variability of application (brush or spatula).

• Not found.

1st place: "AquaMast"

Excellent mastic for major waterproofing of basements. It is supplied in an enlarged volumetric container at a fairly budgetary price. Has a bituminous working base. Can be stored for a long time after opening the container (2 years). Simple enough to use.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Base used	Bituminous
Base	Concrete and reinforced concrete
Packing size, kg or l	18
Price, rubles	1500

• Application variability;
• Large packaging container;
• Actual price.

• Rarely available at retail stores.

Instead of an epilogue

The analysis of the market shows that the domestic buyer prefers Russian-made waterproofing agents. Unlike foreign samples, they are characterized by large sales volumes at fairly low prices. Thus, Russians will prefer a foreign manufacturer only if it is due to design necessity.