Your terrace leaks: waterproofing paint or liquid rubber

Where the water gets into a terrace

A terrace rarely leaks through the middle of a tile. Water gets in through the weak points:

• The joints between tiles, which crack over the years.
• Where the floor meets the parapets or walls.
• Drains and outlets.
• Cracks in the floor surface.
• The cappings on top of the parapets.

That is why properly done waterproofing starts by finding and treating those points, not by simply painting the whole floor.

Waterproofing paint

It is an elastic paint that forms a continuous film over the terrace. It covers pores and hairline cracks and stops water getting in.

It is a good option for maintenance and for terraces in good general condition, with small leaks or as prevention. In white, it also reflects the sun and helps the home below heat up less in summer.

Liquid rubber

Liquid rubber forms a thicker, more elastic membrane, which copes better with the movement and temperature changes of the terrace. At the most delicate points it is reinforced so it does not open up over time.

It is the better choice when the terrace has more serious leaks or a lot of cracks, or when you want tougher protection.

Which one to choose?

There is no single answer. It depends on the condition of the surface, how much it leaks, whether the terrace is walked on every day and how exposed it is to the sun. During the visit we look at your terrace and recommend one or the other, explaining why.

Preparation is what makes it last

Either system fails if it is applied to a surface that is dirty, damp or has loose debris. Before waterproofing you have to:

• Clean the terrace thoroughly.
• Wait until it is completely dry.
• Seal cracks, joints and the junctions with the walls.
• Treat the drains and the cappings.

Signs that your terrace needs waterproofing

• Damp stains or tide marks on the ceiling of the floor below.
• Paint on the ceiling below that is bubbling or flaking.
• Joints between tiles that are cracked or empty.
• Cracks in the floor or where it meets the walls.
• Puddles that take a long time to dry after rain.

The sooner you act, the less damage there will be indoors and the simpler the repair.

The best time of year to waterproof

Waterproofing needs a dry surface and a few days without rain so the product can be applied and cure properly. In the Águilas area the climate helps for most of the year, but it is best to avoid rainy days and the hottest hours in summer, when the surface is too hot.

Ideally, do not wait for the first autumn rains: if your terrace has already shown signs, it is better to have it checked beforehand.

Walkable and non-walkable terraces

A roof terrace you only go up to now and then is not the same as a terrace where you put the table and chairs and walk on it every day. How it is used affects which system and finish suit it. Tell us during the visit how you use your terrace and we will take it into account.

When waterproofing is not enough

If the terrace has badly laid falls and water stands on it, or there are loose tiles and the base is broken, a building repair is needed first. We do not do building work, so if that is your case we will tell you plainly.

On many terraces and roof terraces in Águilas, Pulpí or Garrucha, good waterproofing over the existing floor is enough to put an end to the leaks.

Frequently asked questions