Waterproofing isn’t just a tick-box step in your renovation or building project — it’s one of the most important investments you’ll make in protecting your property. But too often, homeowners dive into DIY waterproofing without understanding the dos and don’ts.
In this blog, we’ll unpack the 7 most common waterproofing mistakes — and how you can avoid them by using the right SCC product for the job.
Let’s start with the big one. Using a roof sealant on your shower wall? Or a wall coating on your balcony? Each part of your home has specific needs — and so do the products.
That’s why SCC offers purpose-built waterproofing solutions:
Match the product to the problem, and you’ll get lasting results.
Would you paint your walls without a primer? Waterproofing is no different. If you skip the primer, your topcoat may not bond properly, which leads to peeling, bubbling, or total failure.
To get proper adhesion and long-term performance, prep your surface with SCC KeyCoat Primer. It’s a simple step that makes all the difference.
Timing matters. In the Highveld regions like Gauteng, Pretoria, and Johannesburg, winter brings dry, stable weather — perfect for waterproofing. But in the Cape, winter is wet and damp — not ideal for curing.
Plan your projects seasonally. Dry winter months in Gauteng are ideal for outdoor work. Let nature work with you, not against you.
Water is sneaky. It finds the smallest cracks and joints and goes to work. That’s why waterproofing without crack repair is like putting a plaster on a leaky pipe.
Use SCC Flex-E-Guard for high-movement areas and SCC Bit-U-Guard for sealing flashings, joints, and cracks. Always fix first, coat second.
Too thin and it won’t waterproof. Too thick and it could crack or take forever to cure. Follow the application guidelines on your SCC product, and don’t skimp on tools.
Use quality brushes, rollers or trowels, and apply the right number of coats for the best results. Pro tip: thinner layers that cure properly are better than a rushed one-coat wonder.
Cracks often form during drying, especially in plaster and screeds. Reinforcing your mix can stop this before it starts.
Add SCC FibrePlast Fibres to your mix to reduce shrinkage cracks, boost strength, and extend your plaster’s lifespan — naturally. It’s a small addition with a big impact.
Waterproofing isn’t instant. Rushing the curing process can undo all your hard work. Whether you’re waterproofing a shower wall or a patio, give each layer the right time to cure before adding the next.
If you’re working in exposed or warm areas, protect your surface using SCC Acrylic-Based Curing Compounds for even, controlled curing.
Avoiding these mistakes doesn’t require expert training — just the right guidance and the right products. SCC’s range of primers, waterproof coatings, crack fillers and reinforcing additives are designed to make waterproofing foolproof.
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Not a good idea. Use SCC Waterproof Multi Coat for bathrooms and SCC Bit-U-Guard for roofs and outdoor flashings.
You’ll likely experience peeling, bubbling, and poor waterproofing performance. Always use SCC KeyCoat Primer to prep your surface properly.
Yes — if you’re in Highveld regions like Johannesburg or Pretoria. The dry winter months provide ideal conditions for curing. In the Cape, plan waterproofing for the dry summer instead.
Absolutely. Water will always find the weak points. Use SCC Flex-E-Guard or SCC Bit-U-Guard to seal cracks before applying your waterproofing layer.
Mix SCC FibrePlast Fibres into your plaster or screed to reduce shrinkage and improve durability.
