What types of waterproofing solutions does Sika offer?

Sika provides a wide range of waterproofing solutions, including liquid-applied membranes, sheet membranes, cementitious coatings, and waterproofing admixtures for concrete. These solutions are designed for different applications such as basements, roofs, wet areas, tunnels, and water-retaining structures.

Which waterproofing system is best for my project?

The best system depends on factors such as the type of structure, exposure conditions, and project requirements. Sika offers tailored solutions for residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, and our experts can recommend the most suitable product based on specific needs.

Where is waterproofing necessary?

Waterproofing is essential in construction to protect structures from water ingress, deterioration, and long-term damage. It is necessary in areas where exposure to water or moisture is likely or consistent. These include:

  • Roofs and external walls – to prevent water penetration from rain and environmental exposure.
  • Basements and foundations – to safeguard against ground water seepage and rising damp.
  • Wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and swimming pools – where regular water usage increases the risk of leaks and moisture damage.
  • Balconies and decks – which are directly exposed to rain and weather conditions.
  • Tunnels and bridge decks – to ensure durability and prevent structural compromise due to constant exposure to water and varying environmental conditions.
  • In commercial and industrial environments, waterproofing is also critical in: 
  • Water treatment plants and reservoirs.
  • Plant rooms.
  • And any areas subjected to high volumes of water or continuous moisture.

Effective waterproofing in these applications not only preserves the structural integrity of the building but also extends its lifespan, reduces maintenance costs, and enhances safety.

When should waterproofing be applied during construction?

Waterproofing should be integrated during the construction phase—before backfilling, tiling, or plastering. Areas such as foundations, basements, slabs, and wet rooms should be treated early in the building process.

Are Sika's waterproofing products suitable for both new construction and renovation projects?

Yes, Sika waterproofing systems are designed for both new builds and refurbishment projects. We provide solutions for repairing existing waterproofing systems, as well as new installations that ensure long-term durability and protection.

What cases waterproofing failure in buildings?

Common causes include:

  • Poor surface preparation
  • Use of incompatible materials
  • Application in wet or dusty conditions
  • Structural movement or cracking
  • UV degradation (for exposed areas)
How long do Sika's waterproofing products last?

The durability of our waterproofing solutions depends on the product type, application method, and environmental conditions. However, our high-quality materials are engineered for long-term performance, with many systems offering extended lifespans when applied correctly.

What equipment is needed to apply a single component liquid-applied membrane?

Liquid-applied membrane can be applied using brush, roller, or airless spray.

What are hot-applied membranes?

A hot-applied membrane is typically referring to a two-component product that uses a hot spray machine for application. The two-component hot spray machines can be adjusted to a specific mixing ratio, working pressure, and heated temperature.  

Are liquid-applied membranes root resistant?

Not all liquid applied membrane are root resistance. Kindly consult us for suitable root resistant product.

What are the benefits of fibre reinforced liquid-applied membranes?

The fibre reinforcement enhances the tensile strength, crack bridging ability and ensures sufficient consumption thickness of the waterproofing coating. The randomly oriented fibres within the mats give maximum multi directional tensile strength to the membranes while allowing them to remain highly elastomeric. 

What is the best waterproofing for underground or substructure applications?

Spray-applied polyurethane/polyurea hybrids, for example Sikalastic®-851, crystalline waterproofing admixtures, or torch-on bitumen membranes are commonly used for below-ground protection.

What are waterproofing admixtures and how do they work?

Wateproofing admixtures are additives mixed directly into concrete or mortar to reduce water permeability. They work by creating a hydrophobic barrier or forming crystals that block micro-pores and capillaries in the concrete.

What admixture can I add to mortar or concrete to make it waterproof?

Sika®-1 is a normal setting liquid waterproofing admixture for mortar and concrete. Sika®-1 blocks the capillaries and pores in the applied cementitious system to provide an effective water barrier against the transmission of liquid water.

What waterproofing is suitable for retaining walls?

Cementitious slurry products, like Sika® Cemflex® or SikaTop® Seal-107 ZA,  are used to waterproof basements, foundations, tunnels, retaining walls, brickwalls and other underground structures. The silane systems are used to prevent water penetration of brick and natural stone.

What types of joints require waterproofing in construction?

Key types include:

  • Construction joints (cold joints between two concrete pours)
  • Expansion or movement joints (accommodate movement due to thermal or structural shifts) 
  • Control joints (placed to control cracking)
  • Pipe penetrations and service entries
How do I choose the right waterproofing system for a joint?

Consider the following factors:

  • Type and location of the joint
  • Expected movement (static or dynamic)
  • Water exposure (submerged, intermittent, or occasional)
  • Chemical exposure or aggressive environments
  • Compatibility with adjacent waterproofing systems
How do I waterproof expansion joints or construction joints?

Waterbars are the most common waterproof jointsealing solution for construction joints and are mandatory for expansion joints. The appropriate profile can be chosen from the wide range of Sika Waterbar® based on various materials, depending on project requirements.

Is joint waterproofing suitable for below-ground application?

Absolutely. For basements, tunnels, lift pits, and water-retaining structures, joint waterproofing is critical. Products like hydrophilic waterbars, injection hoses, or internal joint tapes are often used in these conditions.

Can joints be waterproofed after construction is completed?

Yes. Injection hoses, PU injection, or external joint bandages/tapes can be used for post-construction or remedial joint waterproofing without demolishing structures.

What causes joint waterproofing failure?

Common reasons include:

  • Poor surface preparation
  • Incorrect product selection for joint movement
  • Inadequate installation detailing
  • Ageing or UV degradation of exposed materials
  • Movement beyond the product’s flexibility limit
Can injection systems stop active water leaks?

Yes. Polyurethane foams are especially effective at sealing actively leaking cracks, as they expand upon contact with water, forming a watertight seal.

When are injection systems used?

They are typically used for:

  • Sealing cracks in concrete walls and slabs
  • Repairing leaking joints or construction defects
  • Waterproofing basements, tunnels, reservoirs, and lift pits post-construction remediation of water leaks
What types of resins are used in injection systems?

The most common are:

  • Polyurethane (PU) – expands on contact with water to seal leaks
  • Acrylic gels – flexible and long-lasting for sealing joints and porous substrates
  • Epoxy – used for structural crack repair where high strength is required
  • Silicates or cement-based slurries – for curtain injection behind retaining walls
What is the difference between rigid and flexible injection resins?

Rigid (like epoxy): Used for structural crack repairs where movement is not expected.

Flexible (like PU or acrylic gel): Used in dynamic structures or where ongoing movement or water exposure is expected.

What factors determine which injection product to use?

Key factors include:

  • Crack width and movement potential
  • Presence of water (active or passive leaks)
  • Structural vs non-structural repair
  • Type of substrate (concrete, masonry, etc.)
  • Environmental exposure (chemicals, temperature, etc.)
How is the injection process carried out?

The process typically involves:

  • Drilling holes at strategic intervals
  • Installing injection packers
  • Injecting resin under pressure
  • Monitoring for proper material flow and seal
Are injection systems permanent?

When correctly applied with the right material for the condition, injection systems can provide long-term waterproofing and structural stability. Regular inspection may still be needed for high-movement areas.

Is injection waterproofing suitable for residential use?

While mostly used in commercial and industrial applications, PU injection can be used in residential basements or retaining walls, especially where retrofitting is needed.

What are the benefits of injection systems?
  • Non-invasive (no need to excavate or expose structure)
  • Effective for both dry and wet cracks
  • Quick to apply with minimal disruption
  • Long-lasting when correctly specified
Waterproofing vs Damp Proofing. What is the difference?

While both waterproofing and damp proofing are used to protect structures from moisture, they serve different purposes and offer different levels of protection.
Waterproofing stops water, while damp proofing slows or resists moisture. For areas exposed to water pressure or continuous moisture, waterproofing is the more reliable and durable solution.

 

 

Are Product Data Sheets (PDS) available online?

Yes, all Product Data Sheets (PDS) are available for quick and easy download from Sika South Africa. 

You can access PDS via the central downloads page or directly from specific product category pages. All PDS are the latest approved versions.

Posted on: 25/02/2026
Are Safety Data Sheets (SDS) / Material Data Sheets (MSDS) available online?

Yes, all Safety Data Sheets (SDS)are available for download.

Access them from the central downloads page or the relevant product page. Documents are updated in accordance with regulatory requirements to ensure safety and compliance.

Posted on: 25/02/2026
Can I download Sika product brochures?

Yes, product brochures are available in digital format for download.

Brochures provide overviews of product features, applications, and system solutions. They are accessible via the downloads page or individual product pages.

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Where can I download Sika SA's latest B-BBEE certificate?

The latest BEE certificate isavailable for download from the official downloads page.

This document can be used for tender submissions, supplier onboarding, and compliance verification.

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Where can I download Sika SA’s ISO certificates?

ISO certificates are availablefor download from the Sika South Africa downloads section.

This certificate can be used for tender submissions, supplier onboarding, and compliance verification.

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Can Sika SA provide additional compliance documentation for tenders?

Yes, additional compliance documentation for tender submissions is available. Please complete the contact form our website with your request, and our team will assist you promptly.

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Does Sika SA offer technical support?

Yes, we do! Our technical department has extensive experience with all Sika products, ensuring expertguidance for your projects.

Our sales representatives are known as Technical Sales, as in-depth product knowledge and technical expertise are fundamental to how we support our customers.

Please complete the contact form below with your request, and our team will assist you promptly.

Posted on: 25/02/2026
Does Sika SA provide on-site support or inspections?

Yes, Sika South Africa offers on-site technical support and inspections. Our technical team can assist with project planning, application guidance, and quality assurance to ensure your project meets performance expectations.

Posted on: 25/02/2026
How can I contact Sika’s technical services?

You can contact our technical services team by submitting your query through our website contact form, via email, phone, or by phone. Our experts are available to provide advice, technical guidance, and support for product selection, application, and troubleshooting.

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Does Sika SA have approved applicators?

Yes, Sika South Africa works with approved applicators to ensure high quality product application and projectperformance.
We offer applicator training sessions, and our technical team maintains a list of trained and approved applicators.

To obtain details, please contact our technical department or reach out to your local Sika sales representative.

Posted on: 25/02/2026
Where can I find Sika South Africa’s product price list?

Sika South Africa does not publish a general price list online.

To obtain a quote, please contact your Sika sales representative or submit a request via our website. Our team will provide a personalised quotation based on your project requirements and product selection.

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Does Sika South Africa export stock?

Yes, Sika South Africa can export stock to neighbouring countries where there is no existing Sika company presence. We have a dedicated export department that manages orders, logistics, and compliance for international deliveries.

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Where can I view current Sika job vacancies?

All current job vacancies are published on the official career page of Sika. Positions are updated regularly across various departments and regions.

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How do I apply for a Sika job opening?

Applications must be submitted online through the official Sika careers portal. Select the relevant job posting, review the requirements carefully, and follow the online application process.

Posted on: 25/02/2026
Can I email my CV directly to Sika?

To ensure a fair and structured recruitment process, Sika requires all applications to be submitted through the official careers platform. Unsolicited CVs sent via email may not be processed.

Posted on: 25/02/2026