Quality waterproofing solutions from MAPEI

Waterproofing is a fundamental part of any construction or building but is often not given the respect or attention that is needed. In South Africa’s harsh environment, this is a massive risk for any developer, builder or homeowner when doing any construction work. “Water, in whatever form – be it rain, underground or a leak from a tap – is unforgiving and poses a massive risk to the concrete and infrastructure in place for any building” says Shane Coll, Building line Product Manager for MAPEI South Africa.

“Water ingress will seriously compromise your building over time, and the need for extensive repair work can be very costly” adds Shane.

It is important to consider all the variables that make up the environment and thereafter select the correct solution and application. Waterproofing is unfortunately not a one-size-fits-all scenario, it requires the expertise and knowledge to ensure that the solution chosen is correct and relevant to the application type.

MAPEI has developed a comprehensive range of different waterproofing systems to cover most of the requirements which are commonly found on local construction sites. These systems are combined with the knowledge and expertise to specify the correct solution needed. At MAPEI - we believe in not only providing the products for use, but also supporting the contractors, developers or builders to ensure that the job is done correctly. The unfortunate thing about waterproofing is that if the wrong decision is made – it is only discovered at the stage where damage over time has already occurred. We assist our customers by providing the knowledge and insight into solving the problem.

The MAPEI basket of waterproofing solutions includes:

Cementitious Waterproofing Solutions – the MAPEI range of cementitious waterproofing products covers a wide array of applications and needs, included in this range is the world class industry leading MAPELASTIC range.

Emulsion based Waterproofing – general purpose bitumen based waterproofing solutions.

Acrylic Based Waterproofing –MAPELASTIC AquaDefense is a ready to use, rapid drying flexible liquid membrane which is ideal for use on internal and exterior environments.

Protective Coatings – various different solutions which can be applied via brush or spray to provide surface layer protection to the concrete and infrastructure below it.

Water Repellents – specialized solutions applied to existing buildings / surfaces to prevent the ingress of water.

Specialized Primers and Bonding Promoters – solutions developed for promoting bonding within environments exposed to damp or water.

Bandage Solutions – a comprehensive range of solutions for use in waterproofing over expansion joints, corners and cracks subject to movement.

Waterstops – specific PVC and rubber-based solutions for sealing structural and working joints. This range also includes an injection-based emulsion system used to seal in capillary damp within masonry to prevent rising damp via a chemical barrier.

Water Plugging – products specific for plugging leaking or seeping water.

Waterproofing Admixtures – a innovative range of admixtures which can be added into the concrete mix to provide waterproofing within the mortar mix directly.

“The selection of the correct solution cannot be underestimated, and the correct application thereof is vital. With MAPEI you know you are getting the benefit of the group’s extensive knowledge and technical know-how to support the solutions we provide. Do not compromise on waterproofing as the possible failures are not worth the risk of not doing it properly” concludes Shane.