Choosing the Right Waterproofing System
A professional comparison to help you protect your home or building in Indonesia’s climate
Why Waterproofing Matters in Tropical Regions
Indonesia’s climate is defined by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and long exposure to UV radiation. For residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, roof and surface waterproofing is not optional — it’s essential.
In this article, we explore the most commonly used waterproofing systems, compare their strengths and weaknesses, and explain why Gurtex’s advanced polyurethane-based solution is designed to outperform conventional methods in tropical environments.
Torch-On Bitumen vs Gurtex Roofing System
Let’s start with roofing membranes. Many traditional systems rely on torch-on bitumen rolls, but this approach comes with limitations in safety, durability, and flexibility.
Comparison Table
| Feature / Property | Torch-On Bitumen Rolls | Gurtex Roofing System (3x SG368 + 2x SG168) |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Modified bitumen sheets fused with flame | Liquid-applied polyurethane (SG368) + UV-resistant topcoat (SG168) |
| Application Method | Heat-fused roll membrane (requires open flame) | Cold-applied, brush or roller — no fire risk, safe for any surface |
| Layers & Build-Up | 1 or 2 rolled sheets (3–4 mm thick) | 3 layers SG368 base + 2 SG168 topcoats (approx. 2 mm total dry film) |
| UV Resistance | Basic UV protection, degrades over time | Excellent long-term UV resistance (SG168 top layer) |
| Waterproofing Performance | Good, but seams are vulnerable | Fully seamless membrane — no joints or overlaps |
| Adhesion & Flexibility | Adheres with flame + primer; cracks with movement | High elasticity (> 400%) — bridges cracks and movement |
| Durability | 7–10 years (depending on UV, heat, seams) | 10–15+ years — ideal for tropical climate |
| Surface Compatibility | Needs dry, smooth surfaces | Applies on damp surfaces, concrete, screed, etc. |
| Maintenance | Requires flame, patching, risk of expansion | Brush-on recoating — minimal disruption |
| Safety & Practicality | Requires torching (fire hazard), smell | 100% cold-applied — safe, clean, low-odor |
| Appearance & Finish | Granulated surface, visible seams | Smooth, continuous, paintable finish |
Acrylic Waterproofing vs Gurtex SG368 (Elastomeric)
For wet areas, balconies, retaining walls, and underground tanks, acrylic coatings are often used due to their availability. However, they may not meet the demands of high-performance waterproofing — especially under pressure or movement.
Detailed Performance Comparison
| Feature / Property | Acrylic Waterproofing | Gurtex SG368 |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | Water-based acrylic polymer | Water-based latex bitumen blend (elastomeric) |
| UV Resistance | Moderate (can degrade over time) | Not UV-resistant — must be covered |
| Water Resistance | Basic waterproofing; repels surface water | True hydro-isolation — blocks water under pressure |
| Pressure Tolerance | Cannot handle negative pressure | Handles both positive & negative pressure |
| Application Areas | Walls, balconies, low-traffic roofs | Pools, basements, tanks, foundations (not exposed) |
| Elongation / Flexibility | 100–200%, can become brittle | ~300–400% — stays elastic |
| Adhesion Strength | Moderate — depends on prep | Strong adhesion to concrete, render, screed |
| Film Thickness (dry) | ~0.3–0.6 mm (thin) | ~1.5 mm (thick protective layer) |
| Traffic Resistance | Not foot-traffic resistant | Not traffic-resistant unless protected |
| Chemical Resistance | Low — not suitable for chlorinated or alkaline | High — resistant to saltwater and mild chemicals |
| Curing Time | Quick-drying, may dry too fast | Slower curing — 3–4 days before covering |
| Typical Lifespan | 3–5 years (with maintenance) | 10–15 years (with protection) |
| Topcoat Requirement | Used alone or with acrylic paint | Must be protected (tile, screed, or UV-coat) |
| VOC/Environmental | Low VOC | Low VOC, water-based, safe |
Designed for the Tropics: What Sets Gurtex Apart
Unlike many generic solutions, Gurtex waterproofing systems are engineered for:
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Seamless protection: No joints, no overlaps — less risk of leakage
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Flexible membranes: Handles movement and thermal expansion without cracking
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Fire-free application: Safer for wood surfaces, villas, and confined rooftops
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UV-resistant topcoats: Designed to last in direct sunlight
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Local repairability: Quick brush-on recoating means no heat or torch needed
Whether for roofs, tanks, bathrooms, or concrete foundations — Gurtex offers long-lasting, reliable performance.
Choosing the Right System — Professional Tips
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For flat or sloped roofs, use the Gurtex Roofing System (SG368 + SG168 topcoats)
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For wet areas and foundations, apply Gurtex SG368 with proper covering
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Always protect the system with UV topcoat or screed depending on the exposure
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Surface prep is key — though Gurtex is forgiving on damp or rough surfaces
Eco-Safe and International Ready
Gurtex systems are low-VOC, water-based, and compliant with global safety standards. They’re ideal for modern green buildings and meet export-quality benchmarks — suitable for international markets across Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.
Final Thoughts – Why Gurtex Is the Smarter Choice
When it comes to waterproofing in tropical climates, performance, longevity, and safety matter most. Gurtex offers a professional-grade solution with:
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Cold-applied safety
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Superior flexibility
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Seamless protection
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Long-term value