Walls & foundations
Bituminous Waterproofing in Mauritius: Foundations, Walls & Behind Stone Cladding
Cold-applied bituminous waterproofing is one of the most widely used ways to protect concrete and masonry from moisture when the surface will later be hidden: backfilled foundations, retaining walls, planters, or walls that will receive stone or rock cladding. It is not limited to below-ground work.
What is bituminous waterproofing?
It is a black bitumen-based coating, usually an emulsion or solution, cold-applied by brush, roller or spray. Once cured it forms a continuous moisture barrier on the substrate. Riteseal uses cold-applied products, with no open flame.
Typical substrates and applications
Cast concrete, concrete blocks and rendered masonry are the most common substrates. The treatment is used both below and above ground level.
- Foundations and footings before backfilling
- Retaining walls on the soil side
- Above-ground concrete and masonry walls
- Behind natural stone, rock cladding or decorative masonry finishes
- Planters and other concealed waterproofing applications
Behind stone and rock cladding
Stone cladding fixed straight onto an unprotected wall lets moisture move through the mortar into the wall, causing efflorescence, saltpetre and staining. Applying bituminous waterproofing to the wall before installation limits that moisture path into the structure.
Surface preparation
The substrate must be clean, sound and free of laitance, dust and loose material. Honeycombing and cracks are repaired, corners detailed, and a primer applied where the product requires it. Thickness and number of coats follow the specified product's data sheet.
Why the treatment is normally covered or protected
Bituminous coatings are not designed to stay exposed to Mauritian UV. They are almost always covered: backfill, cladding, render or another finish. Where the area is backfilled, a protection board or sheet prevents stones and compaction from damaging the coating.
Why there is generally no standard warranty
Treated surfaces are often concealed, covered, backfilled or subsequently finished by other trades, which prevents later inspection. For this reason, bituminous waterproofing is generally supplied with no standard warranty. Any warranty, where applicable, will be specifically stated in the quotation.
Bituminous coating vs exposed roof membranes
An exposed flat roof needs a UV-resistant, flexible and reflective membrane: acrylic, hybrid polyurethane or pure polyurethane. Bituminous waterproofing is intended for protected or concealed surfaces. The two are not interchangeable.
Frequently asked questions
Is bituminous waterproofing only for foundations?
No. It is also used on above-ground concrete or masonry walls before installing natural stone, rock features, stone cladding or decorative masonry finishes.
Is bituminous waterproofing covered by a warranty?
No standard warranty applies, because the surfaces are usually concealed or covered. If a warranty applies to your project, it will be stated in the quotation.
Need a diagnosis on your building?
Free inspection anywhere in Mauritius, written specification and warranted works. Call 606 2500.
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