Waterproofing is essential for homes and businesses, but not all waterproofing solutions are the same. There are many types of waterproofing materials that may be used, but amongst the most popular are butynol EPDM membrane and liquid membrane. Both of these popular types of waterproofing materials have their own advantages and disadvantages. What are they and how can you apply each of them, and perhaps more importantly, how can you choose the best waterproofing solution for your home or business?
Butynol Membrane Sheet PROs and CONs
Butynol membrane is an excellent waterproofing material that offers longevity, superb performance, and is low-maintenance. Typically, it is made of synthetic butyl rubber (about 70%) and EPDM (it’s sometimes called Butynol EPDM) which is ethylene propylene diene monomer (about 30%). This mix gives butynol membrane an incredibly strong yet flexible and stretchable characteristic, which is perfect for an impermeable surface.
PROs of Butynol EPDM:
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Excellent durability (>20 years)
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UV-resistant and ideal for roofs and other surfaces that absorb sunlight
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Strong and impermeable surface
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Flexible and stretchable (to an extent)
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Adheres excellently to concrete, plywood, timber, metal
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Low-maintenance
CONs of Butynol EPDM:
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Not ideal for highly detailed surfaces with perforations or windows, for example
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Cannot be used in very small or awkward spaces
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Application is complex and requires professional waterproofing contractors
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More expensive to install and more laborious than alternatives
Liquid Membrane Waterproofing PROs and CONs
Liquid membrane is also an excellent waterproofing material that is highly flexible and versatile for just about any application. It’s usually made of liquid polymers, resins, acrylic polymers and other compounds depending on the application. If you can imagine epoxy flooring, that is one of many types of compounds that is poured out as a liquid and provides waterproofing and sealing.
PROs of liquid membranes:
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Incredibly versatile and can be used in all manner of spaces
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Ideal for waterproofing patios or walls with many windows or uneven edges
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Applied by hand and is fairly easy to apply
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Much cheaper up-front cost than butynol EPDM
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Quite good at bonding to everything from masonry to concrete, timber, and even old membrane
CONs of liquid membranes:
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Not as durable as butynol (around 15 years max)
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Conditions for curing are fairly sensitive
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Requires a professional waterproofing contractor to get a smooth and even finish
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May be more complicated for long-term maintenance as patches need to be retouched, as applicable
Which is Better: Butynol or Liquid Membrane Waterproofing?
There are several key advantages to both butynol membrane and liquid membrane, so you may be wondering, which is best for your home? Well, the answer is usually that both of them have their own applications and they can certainly be used in conjunction with one another.
In cases where both can be applied, it’s generally a better long-term investment to go with butynol EPDM for all flat, large, and even surfaces, and then to cover up any nooks and crannies with liquid membrane. This gives complete waterproofing and makes an entire room, roof, patio, or other surface impermeable.
For complete waterproofing solutions for your home or business, enquire with our team at ProFlow Waterproofing and we will lend our expert advice on the best application for your specific circumstances.
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