Superior waterproofing solutions for roofs and walls

Waterproof membranes are an essential component in construction, providing a protective barrier against moisture to prevent water ingress and structural damage. Whether you need a waterproof membrane for a roof to protect against rain or a waterproof membrane for walls to safeguard against damp, selecting the right waterproofing membrane is crucial for ensuring long-term durability.

Timber structures are particularly vulnerable to moisture-related issues, including rot, mould growth, and insulation deterioration. Without an effective waterproof membrane, prolonged exposure to water can weaken the structural integrity of the building. A well-installed roof waterproofing membrane or wall waterproofing membrane helps to block moisture while allowing the structure to breathe where necessary, maintaining a dry, stable, and energy-efficient environment.

Keep your building dry and secure with our high-performance waterproof membranes. Designed to prevent water ingress and protect structural integrity, they are ideal for roofs, walls, and foundations. Explore our waterproof membranes today.

How do waterproof membranes work?

Waterproof membranes function by creating an impermeable barrier that prevents water from penetrating through surfaces while sometimes allowing controlled vapour movement. They are commonly used in roofs, walls, basements, and wet areas to protect structures from moisture-related damage.

There are two primary types of waterproof membranes:

Liquid waterproof membranes – Applied as a liquid coating that forms a seamless, flexible waterproof layer over surfaces, commonly used for flat roofs, balconies, and wet areas like bathrooms.

Sheet waterproof membranes – Pre-manufactured rolls or sheets of waterproofing material that are applied to surfaces, often with adhesives or mechanical fastenings, used in roofing systems, foundation walls, and external waterproofing applications.

A roof waterproofing membrane is typically installed beneath tiles, slates, or metal roofing to act as a secondary layer of protection against leaks. Meanwhile, wall waterproofing membranes help prevent damp and moisture penetration, particularly in basements or external walls exposed to heavy rainfall.

What are the benefits of waterproof membranes?

  1. Full moisture protection - A waterproofing membrane prevents water ingress, protecting timber structures from damp-related issues such as rot, mould growth, and degradation.
  2. Enhanced structural longevity - Timber buildings require effective moisture control to prevent warping, swelling, and weakening. A waterproof membrane helps preserve the integrity of the structure over time.
  3. Prevents insulation damage - Moisture can compromise insulation materials, reducing their effectiveness. A roof waterproofing membrane or wall waterproofing membrane keeps insulation dry, improving thermal efficiency.
  4. Suitable for harsh weather conditions - Buildings in high-rainfall areas or coastal regions are at greater risk of water damage. A waterproof membrane acts as an extra layer of defence against extreme weather conditions.
  5. Reduces maintenance costs - By preventing leaks and moisture damage, a waterproofing membrane helps reduce long-term repair and maintenance costs for timber buildings.

What to consider when choosing a waterproof membrane?

Selecting the right waterproof membrane depends on several key factors:

Type of waterproofing required

  • Waterproof roof membrane – Needed for pitched or flat roofs to prevent leaks and improve roof durability.
  • Waterproof wall membrane – Suitable for external or internal walls to block damp and moisture ingress.
  • Liquid vs sheet membrane – Liquid membranes are flexible and seamless, while sheet membranes offer superior strength and durability.

Compatibility with construction materials - Ensure the waterproofing membrane is suitable for use with timber structures, roofing materials, or wall surfaces. Some membranes are designed for specific applications, such as vapour control membranes for moisture regulation.

Durability and longevity - Higher-quality waterproof membranes can last 20–50 years depending on exposure to UV radiation, weather conditions, and the quality of installation.

Climate and weather exposure - If the building is located in an area with heavy rainfall or humidity, a high-performance waterproof membrane is essential to prevent leaks and condensation buildup.

Installation requirements - Some waterproof membranes require specialist installation, including overlapping joints, adhesives, and heat-sealing techniques. Ensuring proper installation maximises performance.

Are roofing membranes waterproof?

Not all roofing membranes are fully waterproof. There are two main types:

  • Breathable roofing membranes – Allow moisture vapour to escape while offering some resistance to liquid water. They are not fully waterproof and must be used alongside roofing materials like tiles or slates.
  • Waterproof roofing membranes – Create a complete moisture barrier, preventing water penetration even in heavy rain conditions. Flat roof waterproof membranes are fully sealed to prevent leaks.

When choosing a roof waterproofing membrane, it’s essential to consider the roof design, exposure to moisture, and whether vapour control is needed to prevent condensation buildup.

Can you use waterproof membrane on drywall?

Yes, a waterproof membrane can be applied to drywall, particularly in areas exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Common applications include:

  • Liquid waterproofing membranes – Applied with a brush or roller to create a seamless barrier over drywall before tiling or finishing.
  • Waterproof sheet membranes – Used behind tiles or cladding to prevent moisture penetration in wet areas.

However, standard drywall is not moisture-resistant, so in high-humidity environments, it’s best to use cement board or moisture-resistant drywall along with a waterproof membrane for better long-term performance.

What is the best waterproof membrane?

The best waterproof membrane depends on the application and environmental conditions. Here are some commonly used options:

  • EPDM membrane – A rubber-based roof waterproofing membrane ideal for flat roofs, providing exceptional waterproofing and durability.
  • Liquid waterproofing membrane – Best for seamless coverage over irregular surfaces, often used in bathrooms, balconies, and basements.
  • Bituminous sheet membranes – Popular for roofing and foundation walls, offering high resistance to moisture and mechanical damage.
  • Polyurethane waterproof membranes – Highly elastic and durable, used for roofing, floors, and terraces in harsh weather conditions.
  • Breathable waterproof membranes – Ideal for walls and pitched roofs, providing moisture resistance while allowing controlled vapour movement.

The best waterproof membrane will depend on the specific needs of the building, including climate, exposure to moisture, and required durability.

A waterproof membrane is an essential safeguard for timber buildings, offering protection against moisture ingress, structural damage, and insulation failure. Whether you need a roof waterproofing membrane to prevent leaks or a waterproof membrane for walls to block damp penetration, selecting the right solution ensures long-term durability and weather resistance.

By understanding how waterproof membranes work, their benefits, and installation considerations, you can make informed decisions to keep your timber structure dry, stable, and energy-efficient for years to come.

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