5 Types of Waterproofing Materials

1. Waterproofing membranes

Waterproofing membranes are thin layers of water-tight material applied to a surface to prevent water from passing through it. Waterproofing membranes can be applied on the surface as both positive-side waterproofing and negative-side waterproofing.

Waterproofing membranes are mainly of 3 types: sheet waterproofing membrane, liquid waterproofing membrane, and admixture waterproofing.  Liquid waterproofing membranes are suitable for stable substrates due to their rigidity, while sheet waterproofing membranes are suitable for unstable substrates due to their flexibility.

The most commonly used liquid waterproofing membranes are epoxy, cementitious, acrylic, polyurethane, and bituminous. The most commonly used sheet waterproofing membranes are PVC, EPDM, HDPE, and bituminous sheet membrane waterproofing.

The drying time, curing time, method of application, UV resistance, chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost can vary with each waterproofing material.

Waterproofing membranes can be applied for the basement waterproofing , bathroom waterproofing , kitchens, laundry rooms, and any higher water and moisture impact area in the building envelope. As well as waterproofing membranes are used in mega constructions such as tunnels, roads, and dams.

Here are the most recommended waterproofing membranes and products by the Aqviz experts

1. Epoxy waterproofing: Sika Gard-62, SikaFloor-7500, ArmorPoxy
2. Cementitious waterproofing: SikaTop Seal-107, Hydro Ban Cementitious, Mapelastic
3. Acrylic waterproofing: Mapelastic AquaDefense, Dr. Fixit Roofseal, Laticrete Hydro Ban
4. Polyurethane waterproofing: SILCOR® 550 LS, PROCOR® Deck System, AVM Deck Coat 500,
5. Bituminous sheet waterproofing: BITUTHENE® 3000, SikaShield P24, WR Meadows MEL-ROL
6. PVC sheet waterproofing: Sarnafil® G410, Sikaplan® WP, Carlisle Sure-Flex, Duro-Last® PVC
7. EPDM sheet waterproofing: Firestone RubberGard EPDM, Carlisle Sure-Seal EPDM, GAF EverGuard® EPDM
8. HDPE sheet waterproofing: MasterSeal 730 UVS, GCP Preprufe® 300R, Grace Ultra,

Read more: 13 Types of Building Materials: Uses, Properties, and Water Impact

2. Waterproofing caulk

Waterproofing caulk is a flexible, waterproof material that is used to create a watertight barrier in joints, gaps, and cracks in various building materials. Waterproofing caulks are made from substances like silicone, polyurethane, or acrylic. Waterproofing caulk adheres to a wide range of surfaces, including metal, glass, wood, and concrete, preventing water infiltration and protecting structures from moisture-related damage.

Waterproofing caulk prevents water intrusion with its elastic capability. Hence, it can be used on movement in building materials without cracking or losing adhesion. Waterproofing caulk has excellent resistance to UV rays, mold, and mildew. Hence, it can be used for outdoor elements with higher moisture and humidity.

The curing time of the waterproofing caulk varies depending on the type.  Silicone-based waterproofing caulks typically cure within 24 to 48 hours, while polyurethane caulks may take slightly longer, around 48 to 72 hours. The drying time of the waterproofing epoxy is 30 minutes. The waterproofing capabilities of the waterproofing caulk are only achieved after the complete curing time.

Waterproofing caulk is commonly applied around windows, doors, bathtubs, sinks, and countertops. It is also used in exterior applications, such as sealing roofing seams, siding joints, and around flashing, to protect buildings from rain and moisture penetration. Additionally, waterproofing caulk can be used in marine environments, such as sealing boat decks, hulls, and other components exposed to higher water and moisture.

This is the most recommended waterproof caulk product by the Aqviz experts.

Waterproof caulk: Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal, GE Advanced Silicone 2, DAP Kwik Seal Plus, GE Supreme Silicone

3. Waterproofing paint

Waterproofing paint is a specialized coating designed to create a water-resistant barrier on surfaces such as concrete, masonry, wood, and metal. Waterproofing paints are made of additives like silicone, acrylic, or elastomeric compounds.

Waterproofing paint forms a durable and flexible film on the material surface prone to mold, mildew, and UV rays. Waterproofing paint creates a seamless layer on the surface, which helps to seal all minor cracks and surface imperfections, even in expanding and contracting with temperature changes. Waterproofing paint is breathable, and it prevents bubbling on the surface.

Waterproofing paint typically dries 1 to 4 hours, and it takes 24 to 48 hours to fully cure. This curing process is essential for achieving the paint’s full waterproofing capabilities.

Waterproofing paint can be applied on the basement walls, foundations, bathrooms, and roofs to prevent water infiltration. As well, Waterproofing paint is often used in areas exposed to high humidity, such as kitchens and laundry rooms, to prevent mold growth and maintain a dry, healthy environment.

So here is the most recommended waterproofing paint by the Aqviz experts.

Waterproofing paint: DRYLOK Extreme Masonry Waterproofer, Zinsser Watertite, KILZ Basement & Masonry Waterproofer

4. Waterproofing cement

Waterproofing cement is a modified form of cement that includes water-repellent additives or polymers to create a barrier against water penetration. Waterproofing cement is designed to seal and protect surfaces from moisture infiltration.

Waterproofing cement creates a dense, impermeable layer that effectively blocks water, preventing leaks and moisture-related damage. Hence waterproofing cement is used in both above-ground and below-ground applications. Waterproofing cement is mostly used on water tanks due to its non-toxicity. As well as higher adhesion of waterproofing cement helps to use various substrates, such as brick, stone, and concrete.

The curing time for waterproofing cement generally ranges from 24 to 48 hours, and the drying time ranges from 12 to 24 hours.

Waterproofing cement is primarily used in exterior walls of basements and foundations to prevent groundwater infiltration. And also, waterproofing cement is used on water tanks, swimming pools, and reservoirs to create a watertight seal.

Here is the most recommended waterproofing cement by the Aqviz experts

Waterproofing cement: Xypex, Penetron, Hycrete, MasterSeal 581

5. Epoxy grout

Epoxy grout is a highly durable and water-resistant material made from a combination of epoxy resins and hardeners. Epoxy grout forms a non-porous layer that is prone to water, stains, and chemicals. Hence, epoxy grout is widely used in environments such as bathrooms, kitchens, swimming pools, and industrial settings.

Epoxy grout is impermeable, resistant to mold and mildew, and strongly adheres to a variety of surfaces. It forms a seamless barrier against water intrusion. Dried and cured epoxy is resistant to cracking and shrinking, further enhancing its durability in wet environments.

Epoxy grout typically has a curing time of 24 to 48 hours. But it depends on the specific product and environmental conditions. The drying time of the epoxy grout is around 12 to 24 hours.

Epoxy grout is commonly used in higher water consumption areas such as showers, steam rooms, and areas. And also epoxy grout can also be used in commercial kitchens, hospitals, and laboratories due to its resistance to harsh cleaning agents and chemicals. Additionally, epoxy grout is ideal for swimming pools and spas, where it can withstand constant immersion in water without degradation.

Here is the most recommended epoxy grout by the Aqviz experts

Epoxy grout: Laticrete SpectraLOCK Pro, Ardex WA Epoxy, Mapei Kerapoxy, Tile Doctor Starlike EVO

What is a Water-Resistant Building Material?

Water-resistant material is any substance that can resist the penetration of water to a certain degree, but is not entirely impervious like waterproof materials. These materials slow down water absorption and protect the underlying structure from moisture-related damage for a specific duration or under limited exposure.

These are the 10 commonly used water-resistant building materials.

1. Treated plywood
2. Tiles
3. Marine-grade plywood
4. Fiber cement board
5. Vinyl siding
6. PVC panels
7. Aluminum cladding
8. Galvanized steel sheets
9. Water-repellent concrete
10. Acrylic-coated fabrics
11. Pressure-treated lumber

What is the Porosity of a Material?

The porosity of a material is the measure of the volume of tiny voids, pores, or air spaces within a solid substance compared to its total volume. Porosity is usually expressed as a percentage (%) and determines how much liquid or gas the material can absorb or allow to pass through. In building science, porosity directly influences a material’s water absorption rate, permeability, and durability against moisture damage.

From our waterproofing experience at Aqviz , high-porosity materials like clay bricks, gypsum boards, and untreated wood tend to absorb water quickly, leading to swelling, cracking, and mold growth.

Low-porosity materials like granite, glass, and PVC resist water penetration much better, making them more suitable for wet or submerged environments.

• Clay brick porosity: 25-30%
• Concrete porosity: 5-20% (depends on mix ratio and compaction)
• Natural stone (granite) porosity: 0.4-1.5%