Pools and ponds waterproofing

Problems caused by inadequate pool waterproofing

A swimming pool with improper waterproofing can lead to numerous problems, such as:

• Increased water consumption and, consequently, higher costs.
• Structural deterioration.
• Surface degradation.
• Leaks.

Special considerations when waterproofing swimming pools

To ensure long-term watertightness, a suitable pool waterproofing product must be applied.

In this case, it’s also crucial that the pool’s watertightness is established from the inside out and from the outside in: the pool waterproofing must be applied both inside the basin and between the basin and the ground where the pool is located. This is important to prevent seepage and leaks and to ensure the pool’s continued operability.

Advantages of waterproofing a swimming pool with a liquid system

The application of a liquid waterproofing system, whether for renovating existing pools or constructing new ones:

• No prior primer is required.
• It is compatible with common materials used in pool construction, such as concrete, tiles, and ceramic.
• It adapts to complex perimeters.
• Enables the waterproofing of drains.
• It adheres fully to the surface, without joints or overlaps.
• Eliminates waiting times during application.
• It withstands weather conditions (rain, UV rays).
• Allows for multiple finishes.

Using a liquid polyurethane membrane like Ultraflex enables quick, effective, and guaranteed waterproofing of the pool basin and the ground on which it is installed, ensuring the pool’s interior and exterior watertightness.

Step-by-step guide to waterproofing swimming pools with Ultraflex

When waterproofing swimming pools with the Ultraflex single-component liquid polyurethane membrane, it’s crucial to follow a methodical process.

Prepare the substrate

Before applying the pool waterproofing material, cracks, joints, and any defects in the concrete must be filled. If necessary, cove profiles should be installed. Similarly, the surface must be cleaned, sanded, and milled (if necessary) to prevent existing systems or other components from compromising the membrane’s adhesion.

Apply the primer

This step is designed to block indirect moisture and serve as a vapor barrier, depending on the substrate’s needs.

Apply the membrane

Here, the Ultraflex liquid polyurethane membrane is applied, which can be mixed with Tixal for use on vertical walls. Tixal can be added until the desired consistency is achieved (without exceeding the maximum of 500 ml of Tixal per 15 kg of UltraFlex). In this case, the wet-on-wet, dual-layer application method is used to create a membrane with a minimum thickness of 1.5 mm. If needed, a second layer can be applied to achieve the desired thickness.

Apply the finish

As a final step, an aliphatic polyurethane resin is applied as a topcoat to provide UV protection. For swimming pool waterproofing, if the finish is tiled, instead of aliphatic protection, an additional layer of Ultraflex is applied at a rate of 200-250 g/m². Then, aggregate with a sufficient particle size is spread to create a rough, adherent surface, enabling the flexible cementitious adhesive used for the pavement to bond.

Waterproofing of irrigation ponds and tanks

In addition to waterproofing swimming pools, a liquid polyurethane membrane (Ultraflex) can also be used to waterproof ponds and irrigation basins, as it is a system that withstands pressure and weathering.

In structures like ponds and irrigation basins, where construction materials are often not inherently watertight, applying a suitable liquid waterproofing system is crucial to:

• Prevent structural issues.
• Prevent dampness, drips, and leaks.
• Ensure the water is clean.
• Extend the structure’s service life.

On the other hand, the application of certain preservatives can be aggressive, so using this liquid system as a waterproofing solution for ponds and tanks is a quick, reliable, and safe option.

Related applications and keywords: waterproof pond paint, waterproofing ponds, waterproof pond sealant and swimming pool waterproof paint.