Waterproofing Solutions for Sunshine Coast

Commercial waterproofing plays an important role in protecting buildings from water ingress, moisture damage and deterioration. On the Sunshine Coast, commercial properties can have a range of areas requiring waterproofing, including roofs, balconies, wet areas, basements and other exposed surfaces.

Commercial Waterproofing on the Sunshine Coast

Commercial waterproofing differs from residential waterproofing because projects can involve larger areas, higher levels of use and multiple building elements. The appropriate waterproofing system depends on the surface, exposure to water, existing condition of the building and the requirements of the project.

Where Commercial Waterproofing May Be Required

Waterproofing can be relevant to a range of commercial building areas, including:

• Commercial roofs and roof structures
• Balconies and terraces
• Bathrooms and other wet areas
• Basements and below-ground areas
• Concrete slabs and exposed surfaces
• Areas around drainage points and penetrations

The condition of the existing surface should be assessed before selecting a waterproofing system. Where water ingress is already occurring, identifying the source is an important part of determining the appropriate repair.

For background on common causes of water ingress and warning signs, see our waterproofing repair guide.

Commercial vs Residential Waterproofing

Commercial projects can differ from domestic waterproofing in several important ways:

• Scale: Larger surface areas may require different application methods and systems.
• Building use: High-traffic areas can place greater demands on finished surfaces.
• Multiple applications: Commercial buildings may have roofs, balconies, wet areas and below-ground spaces requiring different waterproofing approaches.
• Existing conditions: Older commercial buildings may require repairs or preparation before a new waterproofing system can be applied.

Commercial Waterproofing Systems

The waterproofing system selected for a commercial project depends on the surface and the type of exposure. Common options can include liquid-applied membranes, sheet membranes, sealants and drainage solutions.

• Liquid membranes: Applied directly to prepared surfaces to form a continuous waterproofing layer.
• Sheet membranes: Used where a membrane system is suitable for the surface and project requirements.
• Sealants: Used around suitable joints, penetrations and other areas where sealing is required.
• Drainage systems: Help manage water movement where drainage is part of the waterproofing solution.

Correct surface preparation, application and detailing around corners, joints, penetrations and drainage points are important parts of the waterproofing process.

Waterproofing Commercial Roofs and Balconies

Roofs and balconies can be exposed to significant amounts of water, making correct waterproofing and drainage particularly important. Existing leaks, failed membranes, damaged surfaces or poor drainage may need to be addressed before further waterproofing work is undertaken.

For residential projects, our Sunshine Coast waterproofing guide provides additional information about waterproofing methods, preparation and moisture control.

Waterproofing Commercial Wet Areas

Commercial bathrooms, amenities and other wet areas need waterproofing that suits the intended use of the space. Areas around plumbing penetrations, floor wastes, corners and wall-to-floor junctions require careful attention during installation.

If an existing wet area has signs of moisture or water damage, the cause should be identified before repairs are carried out. Our guide to common waterproofing mistakes covers issues that can affect waterproofing performance.

Commercial Waterproofing Process

Although every project is different, commercial waterproofing generally begins with an assessment of the area requiring work. The surface condition, existing damage, drainage and likely water entry points can then be considered when determining the appropriate approach.

1. Site assessment: Inspect the affected area and identify visible waterproofing or moisture problems.
2. Surface preparation: Prepare the substrate for the selected waterproofing system.
3. Waterproofing application: Apply the appropriate membrane, sealant or other system.
4. Detailing: Pay particular attention to joints, corners, penetrations and drainage points.
5. Completion: Allow the system to cure or settle as required before the area is returned to use.

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Waterproofing

Q: What areas of a commercial property may require waterproofing?

A: Commercial waterproofing may be required for roofs, balconies, wet areas, basements, concrete surfaces and other areas exposed to water.

Q: Is commercial waterproofing different from residential waterproofing?

A: The basic principles are similar, but commercial projects can involve larger areas, different building uses and multiple surfaces requiring different waterproofing systems.

Q: What waterproofing systems can be used commercially?

A: Depending on the project, options can include liquid membranes, sheet membranes, suitable sealants and drainage solutions.

Q: What happens if a commercial property already has a leak?

A: The source of the water ingress should be identified before deciding on the appropriate repair or waterproofing solution.

Commercial Waterproofing on the Sunshine Coast

Commercial waterproofing needs to be considered in the context of the building, the affected surfaces and the way the property is used. Assessing the existing condition before selecting a waterproofing system helps ensure the proposed work is suited to the project.

Contact us on 0419 136 537.