Use of Bitumen in Waterproofing

Waterproofing is a method to prevent the penetration of water or other liquids into the surface or system. Waterproof systems also resist corrosion and moisture damage. This will extend the structure's life and reduce its maintenance costs.

Various materials can be used for waterproofing, but bitumen is most commonly used for a long time. 

Our ancestors used natural bitumen to insulate the surface of their boats 4,000 to 5,000 years ago. Also, they used it as a sealant for bricks in construction. Besides, bitumen was used to seal food storage baskets.

Today, bitumen is still widely used as a waterproofing material in the sealing of structures and surfaces in various industries.

These structures can be ships, dams, landfills, and metal pipes.

Bitumen can be used in open areas where liquid or water settles a lot, such as balconies, swimming pools, water tanks, and parking lots.

What Are the Properties of Bitumen as a Waterproof Coating?

Like many other hydrocarbons, bitumen is insoluble in water. In other words, bitumen is a hydrophobic material. 

This property of bitumen prevents water molecules from penetrating.

The hydrophobic property of bitumen, along with its adhesion to various types of surfaces, has turned it into a widely used material in waterproofing works. Read our article about "Bitumen Properties" to familiarize yourself with them.

One of the beneficial properties of bitumen in waterproofing is its flexibility. As a result, it is easy to use bitumen, especially liquid ones in angular surfaces, joints, corners, and fractures where water flows easily.

Bituminous coatings are relatively durable and economically cheap. They are recyclable and resistant to chemical degradation and UV rays of the sun.

Bitumen has different types with unique characteristics that make it suitable for use in different climates.

Read More about Bitumen Types and Grades

In addition to waterproof applications, it is also used for rustproof coatings. Because it prevents the penetration of air and moisture to the surfaces, as a result, they increase the lifespan of metals.

Different Forms of Using Bitumen in Waterproofing

Various forms of bitumen used for waterproofing include:

1-Bituminous Paint

Bituminous paints consist of a mixture of bitumen with an organic solvent. Adding polymer to them leads to their stability and better performance in waterproofing.

They are generally applied to the surface by spray, roller, or brush.

Bituminous paints usually do not need to be preheated to use and are very stable. It can apply above and below wet surfaces.

It can be used to waterproof concrete, metal, and wood structures, such as buildings, iron pipes, wooden boats, and so on.

2-Bituminous Membrane

The bituminous membrane is generally used for sealing low-slope roofs. These types of roofs collect rainwater, which penetrates into the structure and damages the building.

These membranes generally have additives. In the production process, they have been applied to glass wool rolls to prevent cracking during the winter.

To stick them on the surfaces, the bituminous rolls are heated by a torch.

3-Bituminous Coating

 The bituminous coating is mainly made up of bitumen that contains polymers and other additives to improve its waterproof properties.

The bituminous coating needs to be preheated. It is used for sealing concrete, building bases, swimming pools, and similar cases where the upper layer is water.