Terrace Waterproofing Solutions for Monsoon: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

• ARDEX ENDURA
• 10 Jun 2025
• 05 Min

Terrace waterproofing solutions for monsoon are essential to protect buildings from water ingress and leakage during heavy rains. The terrace, being the first point of contact for rainfall, is highly prone to water seepage, which can cause structural damage, damp patches, and mold formation inside the building. Effective terrace waterproofing involves applying high-quality waterproofing membranes or coatings that form a seamless, watertight barrier, preventing water penetration even during prolonged exposure. By ensuring proper terrace waterproofing before the monsoon, you can safeguard the structural integrity of the building and maintain a comfortable, dry interior environment.

With Ardex Endura, you can efficiently safeguard your home during heavy rain. Here is a step-by-step guide to waterproofing your terrace.

Step-by-Step Terrace Waterproofing Guide for Monsoon Season

Step 1: Site Inspection & Identifying Problem Areas

• Cracks in Concrete Slabs: Small cracks in concrete slabs can allow rainwater to seep in through the gaps, leading to a larger structural problem.
• Poor Drainage: The formation of water pools is a sign of inadequate and poor drainage systems. This can intensify water infiltration, which can result in mold and mildew outgrowth.
• Existing Waterproofing Layer Deterioration: If your current waterproofing layer has worn out, it can also lead to water seepage.

Step 2: Surface Preparation

• Cleaning: Start by thoroughly cleaning the roof surface. Make sure you get rid of any remaining grease, dust, or old coating. You can use a broom or a brush to sweep the surface. A clean surface allows the terrace waterproofing solution to stick better.
• For more stubborn marks, use high-pressure water jets. Adjust the speed of the water to prevent damage to the surface. If your roof has mold and mildew growing on it, use a bleach solution to get rid of it. Once you are done applying bleach, wash away the chemicals using water.
• Repairing Cracks & Joints: Examine the terrace for cracks, holes or shifting tiles. Use injection grout to fill in the cracked areas. This ensures that no water can seep in through the cracks. To strengthen the joints, you can use coving mortar. Apply it at the corners and joints of the tiles to reduce weak points.
• Drying the Surface: Once you have cleaned and repaired the roof, allow the surface to dry. Any moisture left behind can hamper the terrace waterproofing process. Hence, it is better to carry out the process in the summer.

Step 3: Selecting the Right Waterproofing Solution

Ardex Endura offers a range of products based on your terrace exposure and environmental conditions to help with your terrace waterproofing:

WPM 007 Coolkote – UV-Resistant Liquid Membrane

It is a heat-reflective coating used on roofs. The liquid is elastomeric, allowing it to expand or contract with a change in exterior temperature. It provides heat insulation, excellent resistance, long-term durability and low heat transfer. Further, WPM 007 Coolkote also allows water vapor to escape from the substrate.

WPM 007 Roofkote – Ideal for Sloped Terraces and Roofs

This acrylic-based waterproof sheet for the terrace is used as an exposed grade. It can be used on both old and new roofs. It is elastomeric and can expand or contract with the substrate to prevent cracks. In addition, WPM 007 Roofkote is eco-friendly and provides a high build. It is flexible and can be applied with a roller or brush.

WPM 158 – Versatile Solution for New and Existing Constructions

WPM 158 is a single component suitable for waterproofing walls and roofs. It is a cured membrane with high flexibility. It is versatile and excellently compatible with all construction materials. Besides, WPM 158 is UV and water resistant and provides great resistance to various oils and chemicals.

WPM 004 Flex is a liquid-applied, flexible waterproofing membrane that is an excellent choice for terrace waterproofing applications. It provides a seamless and elastic barrier that effectively bridges cracks and accommodates the structural movements typical of terraces. Its polymer-modified composition ensures strong adhesion to concrete, cement screeds, and other substrates, creating a watertight layer that prevents water ingress and dampness. WPM 004 Flex is designed to withstand UV exposure, temperature variations, and weather conditions, making it highly durable for outdoor applications. Its flexibility and resistance to water pooling help protect terraces from leakage and prolong their service life. With easy application by brush, roller, or spray, WPM 004 Flex offers an efficient and reliable waterproofing solution for terraces.

Step 4: Application of Waterproofing Systems

• Liquid Applied Membranes: Liquid Applied Membranes are an effective terrace waterproofing system that requires multiple sheets of membrane to ensure proper drying between each layer.
• Sheet Applied Membrane: For, Sheet Applied Membrane you will have to ensure the waterproof sheets for the terrace overlap each other properly. Use adhesive bonding to ensure the sheets stick securely on top of each other for years to come.
• Corner & Joint Treatment: Use flexible tapes or bore packing to reinforce weak points or prevent water from seeping into your home or commercial space.

Step 5: Drainage & Protection Measures

Proper Drainage Design

• Ensure Correct Slope: Your roof should be correctly sloped to prevent running water from percolating on the roof top. A sloping roof allows water into the drainage points, preventing a water pool from being created on your terrace.
• Install Drainage Membranes: Install drainage membranes underneath the terrace surface to channel water away more efficiently. Drainage membranes also help reduce hydrostatic pressure and enhance the longevity of the waterproofing system.

Protection of Waterproofing Layer

• Safeguard Edges with Termination Methods: This prevents water from flowing into vulnerable points, ensuring that the membrane remains intact.
• Apply Maintenance Coating: Periodically apply maintenance coatings to rejuvenate the terrace's waterproof sheets. This provides additional UV-ray protection, thereby improving the waterproofing solution's effectiveness.

Step 6: Maintenance & Long-Term Care

• Before every monsoon season, check the terrace for signs of damage. If you notice any cracks, blisters or mold growth, address it immediately before it is too late.
• Ensure the drains are not clogged with debris, leaves or garbage. When the drains are unclogged, rainwater does not get collected.
• Apply a waterproofing layer every few years. This maintains the structural integrity of your building.

Conclusion

Waterproofing the terrace before the monsoon season is very important. If ignored, it can lead to issues like structural damage, mould growth and many other consequences. Thus, make sure to use a high-quality terrace waterproofing solution from Ardex Endura to safeguard your terrace today!