Waterproof and Thermal Insulation Materials are a category of building materials that integrate both waterproofing (moisture and leak resistance) and thermal insulation functions. They are widely used in roofs, exterior walls, basements, bathrooms, cold storage facilities, pipelines, and other areas to enhance a building’s durability, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort.
Waterproofing Function
Prevents penetration of liquid water (e.g., rainwater, groundwater, condensation) into the building structure.
Mitigates issues such as steel reinforcement corrosion, wall mold growth, and finish layer delamination, thereby extending the building’s service life.
Thermal Insulation Function
Reduces heat transfer—minimizing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
Improves building energy performance and complies with national energy-saving standards under China’s “Dual Carbon” goals (e.g., General Code for Building Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Utilization, GB 55015).
| Material Type | Key Characteristics | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) | High compressive strength, low water absorption, stable thermal performance | Basement slabs, roofs, cold room floors |
| Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) | Lightweight, low cost, easy to fabricate | External thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) on exterior walls |
| Rigid Polyurethane Foam (PUR/PIR) | Extremely low thermal conductivity, seamless spray application, strong adhesion | Roofs, cold storage facilities, pipe insulation |
| Polymer Self-Adhesive Waterproof Membrane + Insulation Composite Panel | Prefabricated integrated system combining waterproofing and insulation layers | Underground structures, subways, tunnels |
| Rock Wool / Glass Wool Composite Panels | Class A fire rating, provides both thermal and acoustic insulation | High-rise building façades, fire barrier zones |
| Sprayed Polyurea Elastomer | Rapid curing, high elasticity, excellent aging resistance | Complex-shaped roofs, water tanks, bridge waterproofing & insulation |
Problems with Traditional Approaches:
Applying insulation and waterproofing as separate layers—either insulation first or waterproofing first—often leads to leakage risks at joints, seams, or interfaces.
Advantages of Integrated Systems:
Fewer construction steps and shorter project timelines;
Prevents moisture ingress into the insulation layer (even small amounts of moisture can drastically reduce thermal performance);
Enhanced system integrity, reliability, and long-term durability.
