Top 7 Waterproofing Materials for Concrete Roofs

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to protecting your building from water damage. A well-waterproofed roof can significantly reduce the risk of leaks and the associated costs of repairs.

Top 7 Waterproofing Materials for Concrete Roofs



If you're looking for the best waterproofing solutions for your concrete roof, you've come to the right place. Here are the top 7 waterproofing materials currently available on the market:

1. Bituminous Coating

Waterproofing roofs with bituminous coating is the most popular and successful waterproofing technique for roofs. In this method, the bitumen paint mixture is applied on the roof surface using a roller or a brush.

Bituminous Coating
Bituminous Coating for Concrete Roof

In this method, the bitumen creates a waterproof barrier and the filler material fills the cracks or gaps in the roof surface. In addition to these, the bituminous coating provides corrosion resistance, chemical and UV light resistance, high durability, and is economical.

Bituminous coating is commonly used for concrete roofs and structures.

The cost of 1 litre Black Bitumen Paint is approximately 80$. The coverage of bitumen varies with the consistency of the bitumen, the thickness of the coating, etc. Generally, 1 liter of bitumen paint can cover 50 to 80 square feet with a single coat.


2. Bituminous Membrane Waterproofing

Bituminous membranes are waterproofing membranes made from bitumen, polymers, stabilizers, and reinforcing materials like fiberglass or polymers. When manufactured in the correct proportion, these waterproofing membranes are strong, flexible, tear-resistant and elastic in nature. 

Bituminous Waterproofing Membrane

Bituminous membranes come in various types based on how the membrane is reinforced. The reinforcement is responsible for the mechanical strength of the membrane. The most popular reinforcement for bituminous membranes are glass fiber, aluminum, non-woven polyester, polyethylene foil, and various other combinations. 

The cost of bituminous membrane for waterproofing generally ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot. Their cost varies based on the high-end reinforcement used or how many layer membranes you plan to lay on your roof. 


3. Polymer Waterproofing

Polymer waterproofing is a water-proofing coating applied on the structure by a mixture of cement and polymers, or the polymers alone. The polymer used can be either acrylic or latex-based. This is also called JS waterproof coating (J refers polymer and S refers cement) is tough, high strength water resistant, and withstand temperatures of 140 degrees Celsius. 

Among various types, acrylic-based polymer waterproofing is the most commonly used type. It is most suitable for waterproofing impervious and moisture-proof projects of non-exposed roofs. 

On average homeowners can expect to pay around $3 to $7 per square foot for polymer-based coatings. 


4. EPDM Waterproofing Membrane

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane used commonly in the United States. They are primarily made from propylene and ethylene derived from oil and natural gas. 

EPDM Waterproofing System
EPDM Waterproofing System

EPDM membranes are sold in various widths from 7.5 to 50 feet with a thickness ranging from 45 to 60 mils. These membranes are adhered to the roof surface either mechanically or ballasted or using special adhesives or formulated tapes. 

The cost of EPDM membrane material costs around $3 to $12 per square foot, without the cost of installation. 

Read More On: EPDM Waterproofing System


5. TPO Roofing Membranes

TPO is thermoplastic polyolefin a synthetic roofing membrane that is manufactured by polymerizing polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It is a single-ply roofing membrane, commonly used for waterproofing commercial waterproofing to resist UV rays, weathering, and chemical exposure. 

TPO Membranes


The cost of TPO waterproofing membranes varies based on thickness. On average, the TPO waterproof membrane costs $1 to $3 per square foot without including installation costs.  


6. PVC Waterproofing Membrane

PVC or polyvinyl chloride is a synthetic waterproofing material made of vinyl chloride polymerization. PVC waterproofing membranes are durable, flexible, and resistant to weathering. They offer excellent resistance to water, chemicals, and UV radiation. There are two types of PVC waterproofing membranes: reinforced and unreinforced. Reinforced membranes are more durable and are often used for roofs.

However, as a general estimate, you can expect to pay between $5 and $12 per square foot for the PVC waterproof membrane alone.

7. SPF Waterproofing

Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is a versatile and highly effective waterproofing solution. It's a liquid material that, when sprayed, expands and cures into a dense, seamless foam barrier. This foam adheres to various surfaces, including concrete, metal, and wood, providing excellent waterproofing and insulation properties.

Spray Foam Roofing

The cost of SPF waterproofing can vary based on factors such as the size of the area, thickness of the foam layer, and labor costs. On average, it can range from $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot.


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