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Work sequence

Waterproofing work sequence

Waterproofing succeeds or fails at interfaces: substrate, corners, drains, penetrations and movement joints. The sequence must keep details visible until they are inspected and tested.

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Connected product pages

This sequence is connected to the stage calculator, checklist and mistake-cost pages so planning, execution and cost risk stay in one system.

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Recommended sequence of work

01

Prepare substrate and details

Make the base clean, stable and shaped for water movement.

  • Check slope to drains, surface strength, moisture and crack condition.
  • Form coves, corners, upstands and pipe penetration details.
  • Prime only after dust, laitance and loose material are removed.

Hold point: Membrane application should not start until slope, substrate and penetration details are accepted.

Tools, equipment and access: Moisture meter, Scraper, Vacuum, Primer roller, Slope gauge

02

Install membrane and reinforcement

Create a continuous system through field areas and critical details.

  • Apply the specified coats, sheets or membrane system at required thickness.
  • Reinforce corners, drains, joints, pipe sleeves and thresholds.
  • Protect fresh membrane from dust, trades and mechanical damage.

Hold point: Do not tile, screed or cover until membrane thickness and critical details are checked.

Tools, equipment and access: Wet film gauge, Detail brush, Roller, Membrane scissors, Joint tape

03

Test, protect and release to finishes

Prove the waterproofing before it becomes inaccessible.

  • Carry out flood, ponding or local water testing where suitable.
  • Photograph drains, corners, upstands and penetrations.
  • Install protection before screed, tile or equipment installation.

Hold point: Finish works should not proceed until test result, protection and photo evidence are complete.

Tools, equipment and access: Water test kit, Stopper, Moisture meter, Protection board tools

Tools, equipment and access

Substrate preparation

  • Vacuum
  • Scraper
  • Moisture meter
  • Slope gauge

Application

  • Primer roller
  • Detail brushes
  • Wet film gauge
  • Joint tape tools

Testing and protection

  • Water stoppers
  • Moisture meter
  • Protection board cutter
  • Photo log

Planning material consumption norms

Consumption ranges are planning benchmarks. Final quantities must be checked against drawings, specifications, local codes and supplier data sheets.

Material or resource Basis Planning range Unit Planning note
Liquid waterproofing membrane Waterproofed area 1.5-2.5 kg/m2 Use supplier dry-film thickness for final quantity.
Primer Prepared substrate 0.15-0.30 kg/m2 Depends on porosity.
Corner tape Internal corners and movement joints 1.00-1.20 lm/lm Allows laps and waste.
Protection layer Membrane area 1.05-1.15 m2/m2 Required before high-risk follow-on trades.

Quality gates before moving forward

Related glossary terms

Movement joint

Joint detail allowing controlled movement between building elements or finishes.

Sealant joint

Flexible sealed joint used to close and protect movement-sensitive interfaces.

Substrate preparation

Cleaning, leveling, priming, moisture control, and compatibility checks before finish materials are installed.