Clay Bentonite Waterproofing

Clay Bentonite Waterproofing

Several substances that are effective in waterproofing structures are available on the Southern Californian market.  Some products are man-made and others are natural.  For many in the area, using a natural product for waterproofing may be a more desirable option than using a man-made product.  For them, there are several options, and one of them is clay bentonite.

Bentonite is a natural waterproofing product that is commonly used in below grade systems.  When it comes in contact with water, it will expand 10-15 percent of its original volume.  Once it expands, water will have no place to migrate into the building’s structures.  A builder can obtain this material in panels or sheets.  Many times, it is used to address areas that need blind side waterproofing.  Such areas can include earth retaining systems, elevators, and sump pits.

Some people also use bentonite to repair cracks in leaking foundations.  One way of doing this is to inject the substance into the ground next to the foundation.  This method of waterproofing repair is not recommended by some professionals as the clay can settle into water drainage systems and clog them.  It also is not a certain method of repairing all the cracks in an area.