The buzz at industry conferences and on social media make it clear that the topic drawing the most attention for pool and spa builders is waterproofing and for a good reason. Conversations among pool pros attending industry events can be heard sharing stories about plaster or glass tile failures they recently experienced due to a deficient waterproofing application or a decision not to waterproof at all.
How can pool pros avoid these potentially catastrophic failures? Well, it starts with the effective waterproofing of all concrete pool shells and other water containment structures. This is crucial to the structural integrity and sustainability of the concrete shell and applied plaster, tile and other finishes. In addition, long-term performance is dependent on a systematic waterproofing strategy that provides protection both integrally, within the concrete itself, and externally with a highly flexible, fluid-applied, anti-fracture membrane.
A systematic waterproofing strategy is designed to protect concrete pool shells in three ways: 1.) keep water from leaking out of the pool and into the ground, or worse, into occupied living space; 2.) prevent ground water from migrating through the concrete pool shell via capillary action and the emerging efflorescence deposits that result; and3.) provide an anti-fracture barrier to help protect subsequent pool finishes in the event of potential cracking.
Miracote has developed such a systematic waterproofing strategy -- what the company likes to call the “First Line of Defense.” This strategy includes a product that is applied to new and existing concrete pool shells and other concrete features in aquatic environments. The treatment physically enhances the concrete through a chemical reaction with the soluble hydrate compounds that contribute to problems associated with efflorescence. It converts those compounds into a stable calcium silicate hydrate gel. Like the concrete curing process, this conversion occurs over the several weeks and efflorescence is significantly mitigated, if not eliminated. It also enhances the protection of concrete steel reinforcement from the corrosion process.
The final step in the waterproofing process is the application of a vapor permeable, flexible cementitious, anti-fracture membrane. It’s topically applied to concrete pool shell surfaces with close attention to detail around all penetrations and transitions, and is often fabric reinforced to further resist and hold cracks at bay.
The Miracote Division of Crossfield Products Corporation is an innovative technology leader when it comes to waterproofing concrete and other structures. Scientifically superior technology has been the cornerstone of the company since 1938 when its products were first developed and used to waterproof the ship decks of the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary. Fast forward to our world today, and innovation continues to drive the company’s ability to provide solutions to today’s challenging problems.
Miracote believes that the best solutions are ones that stand the test of time, and the First Line of Defense is critical to achieve that. If your waterproofing supplier doesn’t offer one, then don’t bother wasting your money.
