WATERPROOFING VS DAMP PROOFING – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
When it comes to below ground protection, selecting the right solution is crucial to ensure the longevity and integrity of the structure.
Allco offers a full range of waterproofing and damp proofing membranes, and understanding their differences before specification is critical. While below-ground bitumen membranes provide a barrier against moisture and vapor, preventing dampness from rising into a building’s structure, our waterproof membranes are designed to resist water ingress entirely, forming a robust protection against water penetration. Selecting the right solution will depend on the specific requirements and conditions of the project.
This article covers the key differences between our CETCO Volclay waterproofing range and our Casali Bitumen Damp Proof Membranes.
CETCO Volclay Range: The Ultimate Waterproofing Solution
CETCO Volclay is a world-leading waterproofing solution designed to provide robust protection against water ingress in below-ground structures. The Volclay range utilises sodium bentonite, a naturally occurring clay with remarkable swelling properties, which expands upon contact with water to form a dense, impervious barrier.
Key Features and Benefits:
All-Weather Installation
One of the standout features of the CETCO Volclay range, which includes Voltex and Swelltite, is its ability to be installed in virtually any weather condition, including rain and snow. This flexibility significantly reduces weather-related construction delays.
No Priming Required
Unlike other tanking membranes, Volclay products do not require a priming layer. They can be installed directly onto compacted slab substrates, saving valuable time and resources.
Pre-Applied and Post-Applied Options
Voltex is a pre-applied membrane suitable for use around formwork and horizontal surfaces. Its patented carpet-like geotextile fibers ensure the bentonite stays in place, protecting against wet weather and construction damage.
Swelltite is a post-applied membrane ideal for vertical concrete walls and block work. It combines bentonite with butyl rubber, offering flexibility and resilience, and adheres easily to concrete walls.
Self-Healing Properties
Both Voltex and Swelltite hydrate and swell upon contact with water, forming a dense, impervious membrane. This swelling action allows the products to self-heal and seal around penetrations and small cracks, ensuring long-term protection against water ingress.
Casali Bitumen Damp Proof Membrane: Managing Moisture Effectively
The Casali Bitumen Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) range is specifically designed to control moisture in below-ground structures by preventing water vapor from rising into the building. Unlike waterproof membranes, which are designed to resist water ingress entirely, DPMs are ideal for non-hydrostatic conditions where there is no significant water pressure.
Key Features and Benefits:
Designed for Non-Hydrostatic Conditions
The Casali Bitumen DPM range is specifically designed to manage moisture in the form of water vapor rather than resist water ingress entirely. This makes it ideal for low-risk project conditions where hydrostatic pressure is not a concern.
Versatile Application Methods
Casali membranes can be applied using peel-and-stick or torch methods, offering flexibility in installation.
High-Quality Material
Manufactured from premium modified bitumen, Casali Bitumen DPMs ensure durability and reliability.
Compatibility and Warranty
The Casali Bitumen DPM range is compatible with Allco’s Volclay Waterproofing range, ensuring seamless integration for comprehensive moisture protection. Allco offers a 20-year product warranty, providing peace of mind to specifiers, builders, and developers.
Product Variants for Specific Needs
- Casali Aderix: Self-adhesive membrane ideal for wall applications requiring a peel-and-stick method.
- Casali Olympia (PBS): Suitable for under-slab applications with torched laps or wall applications.
- Casali Dermafil: Chipped cap sheet membrane for walls with torched applications and transitions to above ground.
- Casali Eradix: Root stop membrane designed for planter boxes.
Choosing the Right Solution
Selecting between waterproofing or damp proof will depend on the specific requirements and conditions of the project. If the site is likely to encounter hydrostatic pressure, our CETCO Volclay is the ideal choice due to its ability to form a dense, impervious barrier and self-heal around penetrations and cracks ensuring long-term protection against water ingress. For projects with no water pressure and where managing water vapor is sufficient, our Casali Bitumen Damp Proof Membrane offers an effective and high-quality solution to prevent water vapor from entering the building
It is also important to consider the weather and site conditions of the project. Volclay range can be installed in most weather conditions, whereas a rainy day will grind the application of DPM bitumen membranes to a halt, creating delays. Volclay products can be installed in any weather, making them highly versatile and reliable, saving time and money in the long run.
Understanding these differences and benefits will help you choose the best below-ground protection for your project, enhancing the longevity and integrity of your structure. Allco offers a comprehensive range of solutions and has dedicated technical support ready to help you make the right choice every step of the way.
If you want to know more about our range visit our product page contact your local account manager or email our technical team.