Waterproofing Solutions for Commercial Spaces: What Architects and Designers Need to Know

In commercial construction, waterproofing solutions are key components to protect buildings from damage. Water infiltration can cause mold and structural issues, leading to damages, expensive repairs and potential health risks for people utilizing the space. 

When quality waterproofing is implemented into the design, commercial spaces are kept dry and safe. This helps ensure a long life for the building, a safer environment for occupants and fewer headaches for building owners. 

The Importance of Effective Waterproofing Solutions in Commercial Buildings

Waterproofing is a long-term insurance plan. It’s not just about water protection—it's an investment in a building's entire future. 

Moisture can sneak into basements, crawl spaces and foundational walls, causing water to pool and creating damp spots. This can lead to costly fixes and structural damage. Not to mention the potential health problems caused by mold.

A strong waterproofing plan keeps commercial spaces dry and safe, providing an optimal place for work and leisure.

Why Choosing Eco-Friendly Waterproofing is Crucial for Long-Term Protection

In today's world, choosing eco-friendly waterproofing solutions is not just a trend. These solutions offer lasting protection against water damage while being kinder to our environment. 

By using materials that are less harmful to the planet, architects and designers can help create a healthier world and ensure the strength of commercial buildings. While also helping to contribute to green building certifications.

Plus, eco-friendly waterproofing materials often perform better, providing a seamless barrier that effectively stops water from getting in. 

Common Waterproofing Challenges in Commercial Projects

There are a few challenges to waterproofing commercial projects that architects and designers should consider. These are due to their unique size, location or other complexities.

Addressing Water Intrusion in Basements, Roofs and Walls

Basements, roofs and walls all need an individual approach when waterproofing, as each area is exposed to different types of moisture and environmental stress.

Basements, for example, often face hydrostatic pressure when the soil around the foundation becomes saturated with water. This calls for waterproofing solutions that work alongside effective drainage systems.

Roofs must resist direct assault from rain and/or snow. While exterior walls require breathable yet water-resistant barriers so vapor can escape without letting moisture in.

A well-designed waterproofing plan should always consider the specific vulnerabilities and structural functions of each surface. While also accounting for local climate, building materials and the existing drainage systems.

Waterproofing for Complex Zones and Harsh Environments

Tough environments need waterproofing solutions that can handle extreme conditions, while complex zones within a structure often need a multi-pronged approach.

For instance, in cold environments, a high-elasticity solution like Acriflex X-Pro is a great choice as it stays flexible in freezing temperatures. It’s also a top product for surfaces with prolonged exposure to UV rays, industrial pollutants and salt.

While WATstop offers strong protection for difficult underground spaces like basements or cellars or surfaces that are always wet, like swimming pools.

Types of Waterproofing Solutions for Commercial Spaces

Protecting commercial buildings from water damage is key to their long-term health and safety. Architects and designers have many waterproofing options to consider, each crucial for avoiding expensive fixes and ensuring healthy indoor air quality. Let’s take a closer look:

Acriflex Primer: Preparing Surfaces for Effective Waterproofing

Acriflex Primer is essential for preparing asbestos surfaces  and improves adhesion on porous surfaces such as concrete, masonry and wood to enhance the performance of liquid waterproofing systems like Acriflex Pro and Rapido. before applying waterproof coatings. Its primary function is to prevent the dispersion of asbestos cement fibers, making them safer to remove or coat later on. 

Acriflex primer is designed to be used in conjunction with waterproofing solutions like Acriflex Pro or Acriflex Rapido. 

Applications:

• Concrete

• Masonry

• Wood

Acriflex Pro: Ideal for Roofs and Asbestos Encapsulation

Acriflex Pro is an excellent waterproofing system with elastomeric resins & nano-fillers for high flexibility & durability. 

It maintains flexibility under extremely cold temperatures and resists UV degradation, salt air and other extreme weather conditions. It’s especially effective for encapsulating asbestos-cement surfaces, a critical factor in offering commercial spaces safe, long-lasting solutions.

Applications:

• Outdoor Use

• Roofs

• Asbestos encapsulation

Acriflex X-Pro: High-Elasticity Solutions for Cold Environments

Acriflex X-Pro, like Acriflex Pro, is ideal for very cold environments and withstands prolonged exposure to UV rays, industrial pollutants and salt. 

Where it differs is in its huge range of applications, including interior spaces like bathrooms and kitchens.

It’s formulated with advanced eco-friendly acrylic polymers for exceptional water resistance and mechanical performance.  And is also effective for encapsulating asbestos-cement surfaces.

Applications:

• Terraces

• Flat roofs

• Concrete sheds

• Patios 

• Balconies

• Eaves

• Flashing

• Foundation walls

• Wood

• Metal

• Cornices

• Chimneys

Indoor environments such as:

• Bathrooms

• Shower surrounds

• Kitchens

• Wet areas

• Floors

Acriflex pH4: Chemical/Industrial Applications

Acriflex pH4 is the go-to solution for industrial applications where surfaces may be exposed to harsh chemicals, withstanding environments with pH levels from 2 to 12. Ideal for industrial applications including containment, wastewater treatment, and chemical storage.

Its specialized, fiber-reinforced formula can handle a wide range of pH levels, making it ideal for protection against harsh chemical exposures, as well as containing liquids in tanks. It’s also dependable for challenging environments like water stagnation, low temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles.

Applications:

• Industrial plants

• Chemical processing

• Storage and containment

• Laboratories

• Wastewater treatment

• Food and beverage production

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing

• Corrosive environments

• Concrete structures

• Secondary containment

• Indoor and outdoor use

Acriflex Rapido: Fast-Setting Waterproofing Solution

Acriflex Rapido is designed for projects that require quick application and fast-setting waterproofing. In fact, it resists washout in just 20 minutes. Rapido provides tough protection against water infiltration with minimal downtime and efficient project completion.

Applications:

• Patios

• Balconies

• Sheds

• Chimneys

• Eaves

• Flashings

• Cornices

• Foundation walls

• Vertical walls

WATstop: Waterproofing for Challenging Environments (Basements, Wet Surfaces)

WATstop is designed for challenging environments like basements and wet surfaces. It can be applied directly to wet or dry surfaces and serves as a vapor barrier, as well as a joint filler for tiled floors. At just 2mm thick, WATstop provides the perfect base for a variety of finishes, including plaster, various paints and tiles.

Applications:

• Basements and below-grade structures

• Interior walls and floors with high moisture exposure

• Foundations and footings

• Tunnels and underground constructions

• Wet rooms (commercial kitchens, bathrooms)

Ultragum: Elastic and Durable Waterproofing for High-Humidity Areas

Ultragum offers elastic and durable waterproofing that’s the preferred choice for high-humidity areas. It ensures commercial spaces remain dry and safe, preventing mold growth and structural issues. Ultragum forms a seamless, flexible membrane that is also walkable, making it ideal for surfaces like terraces and high-traffic areas.

Applications:

• Commercial kitchens and bathrooms

• Laundry rooms

• Food processing plants

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities

• Other high-humidity environments

Sustainable Waterproofing Solutions for Commercial Buildings

Choosing environmentally responsible waterproofing options is crucial for protecting buildings and supporting our planet. These solutions can improve a building's green certifications, increasing its value and attractiveness while providing effective water protection.

How Sustainable Waterproofing Improves Green Building Certifications

Green building certifications show a building's environmental performance, making it more appealing to environmentally conscious tenants and investors. By boosting a building's sustainability, architects and designers can help create a healthier planet while ensuring long-term protection and marketability for commercial spaces.

How to Choose the Right Waterproofing Solution for Your Commercial Project

Selecting the appropriate waterproofing solution means considering several key factors. For example:

• What is the surface type?

• What are the environmental conditions?

• Is the project interior or exterior? 

• Is the surface wet or dry? 

• Are chemicals used in this environment?

• Are there any unique structural components required, such as drainage support in basements? 

Ensuring Long-Term Protection

Taking the time to evaluate and understand different waterproofing solutions ensures you select the most suitable solution for a project's requirements. By addressing water infiltration and moisture-related issues, architects and designers can protect a building's integrity and ensure a safe environment for years to come.

Our experienced contractors are ready to evaluate your needs and provide tailored solutions that guarantee long-term protection for your commercial space. Contact our team today!