In the evolving landscape of multistorey living, office spaces, and community developments, ensuring the long term durability of concrete structures is paramount. The risks associated with inadequate waterproofing; corrosion, water migration, carbonation, and costly repairs, are well documented, with recent Australian apartment failures highlighting the dire consequences of neglecting proper internal admixture protection.
Structural waterproofing solutions that incorporate hydrogel technology provide a proactive approach to mitigating these risks. By integrating waterproofing admixtures directly into concrete, structures gain long-term protection against water ingress and moisture related damage.
The Risk of Poor Concrete Protection in Multistorey Developments
Australia has experienced several high-profile cases of structural failures in apartment buildings, often linked to water ingress, inadequate waterproofing, and poor concrete durability. These incidents underscore the critical need for effective waterproofing solutions to prevent costly repairs and structural risks:
- 2019–Present – Mascot Towers Crisis – Completed in 2009, Mascot Towers was evacuated in 2019 after severe structural defects, including cracking and water-related damage, rendered the building unsafe. Years later, residents continue to face financial hardship, legal disputes, and discussions around selling the complex to recover costs.
- 2023 – Vicinity Complex Defects – In 2023, owners of the Vicinity apartment complex in Sydney’s inner west were confronted with a $50 million repair bill due to serious structural defects. Water-related damage compromised the building’s integrity, with the collapse of the developer leaving residents responsible for rectifications.
These failures lead to significant financial burdens, disruptions for residents, and, in extreme cases, buildings becoming uninhabitable. As urban development accelerates, the demand for durable, high-performance concrete solutions is greater than ever. Developers, engineers, and builders must prioritise internal admixture protection as a fundamental element of construction, ensuring long-term resilience rather than facing costly remediation.
Internal Waterproofing – Protection from Within
Hydrogel admixtures enhance concrete durability by sealing pores and capillaries within the matrix, preventing water migration at the source. Compared to traditional crystal growth admixtures, hydrogel technology offers distinct advantages in certain applications, making it a reliable choice for long-term structural protection.
Why Choose Hydrogel Admixtures?
Consistent Performance – Hydrogel technology forms a uniform, flexible barrier within the concrete, actively responding to moisture presence and maintaining protection over time.
Enhanced Crack Resistance – Unlike crystalline growth, which requires water activation for sealing, hydrogel admixtures provide proactive, self-sealing properties that help mitigate shrinkage cracks.
Optimized Setting and Curing – Hydrogel formulations can support more controlled hydration, potentially enhancing setting and curing times for improved concrete performance.
By preventing capillary formation, hydrogel admixtures reduce water ingress at its source. This protects embedded reinforcement from corrosion, extends the service life of structures, and eliminates reliance on external membranes; significantly increasing the service life of concrete, reducing material waste and environmental impact.
Moisture Vapour Reduction for High-Rise and Office Spaces
Moisture vapour transmission is a silent yet destructive force in concrete structures, leading to issues such as flooring failures, mould growth, and premature degradation. Controlling excessive vapour movement provides essential protection for:
- Apartment Complexes & High-Rise Offices – Prevents moisture-related flooring failures, ensuring long-term adhesion of finishes.
- Community & Commercial Spaces – Reduces the risk of surface defects and mould growth, creating healthier indoor environments.
- Mixed-Use Developments – Offers comprehensive protection for spaces where high moisture levels can compromise structural integrity.
The Importance of Locally Sourced Materials
Using locally sourced materials in construction enhances quality control, supports supply chain reliability, and contributes to sustainability goals by reducing reliance on imported products. Locally manufactured waterproofing solutions also help reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects while ensuring compliance with Australian standards.
Invest in the Future of Your Concrete Structures
The importance of integrating internal waterproofing solutions cannot be overstated. By adopting advanced hydrogel-based waterproofing strategies, developers and engineers gain peace of mind knowing their structures are fortified against the elements, reducing long-term risk and ensuring resilience.
Prioritising durable and sustainable construction practices ensures that Australia’s built environment remains strong, safe, and capable of withstanding future challenges.
Partner with CLEVA CRETE for Engineered Concrete Solutions
At CLEVA CRETE, we understand the importance of durable, long-lasting concrete structures. Our locally manufactured solutions are designed to reduce risk, extend service life, and provide sustainable protection from day one. We’d love to work with you to create safer, more resilient multistorey buildings, office spaces, and community developments. Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help protect your next project.
