Waterproof swimming pool with Cementmix

Building a waterproof swimming pool starts with the concrete, mortar or render used during construction. By replacing all mixing water with Cementmix, the cement-based material becomes permanently waterproof from within while remaining vapour permeable. This helps create a durable pool structure without relying on a separate waterproof coating.

Why use Cementmix for a waterproof swimming pool?

Cementmix replaces all mixing water when you make concrete, mortar, render or screed for a waterproof swimming pool. The waterproofing is built into the cement-based material itself. This is especially useful for a pool, where the structure is exposed to continuous water pressure and moisture.

The pool construction must still be structurally sound. Cementmix cannot repair cracks caused by movement, poor foundations or damaged masonry. Used correctly, however, it provides a durable waterproof base for new pools, pool walls, cement render and repair mortar.

Planning a waterproof swimming pool

A waterproof swimming pool needs a structurally sound base, suitable cement-based materials and careful preparation. Cementmix helps make the concrete, mortar or render waterproof from within, but it does not replace correct construction, reinforcement or crack prevention. When building a waterproof swimming pool, make sure the foundation and pool walls are designed for the water pressure and the ground conditions.

For an independent overview of pool construction methods, see SPATA’s guide to building a swimming pool.

Waterproofing a swimming pool

Concrete is used for the construction of almost all swimming pools, but when you use water, water-tightness problems can arise. Swimming pools mainly have concrete floors, but sometimes this is also used for the foundation or for the walls. You can run this yourself, depending on the quantity you need. The mix is available in different packages from 1 to 25 liters, and is suitable for any type of cement. First start with a sample to get a feel for the product, because the drying process is slightly faster than with normal water.

No tiles required

Normally you should apply tiles to ensure that no water drains from the bath. This is not necessary by making concrete mortar with the mix for cement instead of water, but it is of course possible. Make sure that the tiles, joints and tile adhesives you use are sufficiently resistant to the cleaning techniques and chemical products used in swimming pools. Choosing the right tiles is not easy and often very expensive. The tiles must be able to withstand the water pressure when they are under water and back pressure when the pool is empty. In winter, the tiles in this case are also subject to freeze and thaw damage

Make masonry mortar

Cement is a finely ground binder that hardens by adding water or for waterproof cement by adding the special cement mix. Mixing the binder with other materials, such as sand or lime, creates masonry mortar that you can use for laying brick joints, a wall and so on. Concrete is also made on the basis of cement, but instead of sand it is mainly mixed with gravel.

You need a masonry tub and a bucket to make masonry mortar and preferably also a mixer, especially for larger quantities. It is also possible to use a trowel to mix the masonry mortar if you do not have a mixer. You also need a trowel for the masonry itself. First of all, mix the dry substances well before adding liquid. It is important to always use clean materials for the highest possible quality. You can easily check whether you have maintained the correct proportions by drawing a slot in the mortar tray. Does it keep its shape and not fill the slot with liquid? Then the proportions are correct. Do not make too much grout at once, because it will dry out.

Cementmix for waterproof swimming pools

Cementmix is a liquid waterproofing additive for concrete, mortar and cement render. It completely replaces the mixing water, so the waterproofing becomes part of the cement-based material itself. For a swimming pool project, use Cementmix in the concrete, mortar or render that forms the pool structure.

One litre of Cementmix replaces one litre of mixing water. Check the water requirement on the cement or mortar bag, then use the same amount of Cementmix. This gives the pool structure durable waterproof protection from within while remaining vapour permeable.