HDPE Membrane Waterproofing

HDPE Membrane Waterproofing

Product Manuals
01. HDPE Membrane_Product Manual.xlsx

1. Introduction to HDPE Technology

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) sheet membranes are pre-applied, fully bonded waterproofing systems. Installed above PCC, they bond integrally with fresh RCC, preventing any lateral migration of water even if punctured.

Two main variants:

  • Sanded HDPE → mechanical grip with fresh concrete.
  • Bonded HDPE → pressure-sensitive adhesive polymer ensures adhesion.

Widely adopted for deep basements, high water table sites, and aggressive soils.

2. Advantages

  • Fully bonded → no lateral water migration.
  • Excellent chemical resistance (salts, sulfates, chlorides).
  • Works even on damp PCC (no dry surface required).
  • Long service life (>10 years).
  • Suitable for both horizontal rafts and vertical walls.

3. Limitations

  • Requires trained applicators for overlap and terminations.
  • Deep basements excessive sludge can disturb the bonding adhesion with concrete
  • Can be damaged during rebar fixing or concreting.
  • Bonded membranes move & deflect with the structural movements
  • Terminations must be strictly as per detail drawings.

4. Performance Parameters

Property
Requirement
Standard
Thickness
≥ 1.2 mm
Manufacturer spec
Elongation
≥ 300%
ASTM D412
Tensile Strength
≥ 25 MPa
ASTM D412
Peel Adhesion to Concrete
≥ 750 N/m
ASTM D903
Puncture Resistance
≥ 900 N
ASTM F1306
Hydrostatic Pressure Resistance
≥ 60 m
ASTM D5385

5. Recommended Use Cases

  • Deep basements with high hydrostatic pressure.
  • Rafts with damp PCC or aggressive soil conditions.
  • Retaining walls (confined and unconfined).
  • Projects requiring 10+ years guaranteed waterproofing.

6. Application Steps

Surface Preparation

  • PCC free of laitance, sharp edges, and standing water.
  • Honeycombs voids repaired with same-grade concrete.

Membrane Laying

  • Place with non-adhesive side facing PCC, adhesive/sanded side up.
  • Overlaps: 70–80 mm, staggered.
  • Selvage overlaps sealed with pressure-sensitive adhesive tape.
  • In damp conditions, warm overlap with hot air gun before sealing.
  • Keep ≥500 mm clearance from reinforcement.

Termination

  • Unconfined walls: terminate 40 mm below raft top.
  • Confined walls: extend 300–500 mm above raft, fixed to shuttering, with flashing.

Inspection & Repairs

  • Inspect for punctures, scratches, overlap gaps.
  • Small scratches: pressure-sensitive tape.
  • Punctures: patch with ≥150 mm overlap sheet.
  • Record repairs on as-built drawings.

Concreting

  • Concrete placement only after inspection approval.
  • Remove shuttering after RCC reaches ≥20 N/mm².

7. Section Drawings

  • Raft + retaining wall junction with HDPE.
  • Termination detail (confined/unconfined).

8. Inspection Test Plan (ITP)

  • One test per site if <1000 m²; thereafter one per 1000 m².
  • Random sampling allowed by client/third party.
  • Samples from centre + 1m from edges.
  • Tests: thickness, elongation, tensile, peel adhesion, puncture, hydrostatic resistance.

9. Documents

Specifications, BOQ, and Checklist

General Spec Document.docx76.3 KB
BOQ with Specs Clause.xlsx19.2 KB
CheckList.xlsx19.2 KB

10. General Specification Clause

“S12121212”

10. Reference Standards

  • ASTM D412 – Tensile Properties
  • ASTM D903 – Peel Adhesion
  • ASTM F1306 – Puncture Resistance
  • ASTM D5385 – Hydrostatic Pressure Resistance
  • IS 2645 – Integral Waterproofing Admixtures
  • ACI 350 – Environmental Engineering Concrete Structures

5. Video Masterclass

SpecX Masterclass: HDPE Membrane Waterproofing — Coming Soon

Disclaimer

SpecX is an industry initiative & a neutral resource, compiled from industry references and best practices. It is not brand-specific. Always cross-check with project requirements and local codes before finalizing specifications.