Waterproofing Essentials for Landed Homes: What to Know and How Long It Lasts

As a new homeowner of a landed property, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of renovation and styling your home. But one often-overlooked (yet crucial) detail is waterproofing. Done right, it protects your investment for years. Done poorly—or skipped altogether—it can lead to costly repairs, mould, and structural damage.

Here’s a quick guide to the main areas of a landed home that require waterproofing, and what kind of waterproofing system exists in the martket.

🔧 1. Roof and Roof Terrace

Why it matters: The roof is your home’s first line of defense against rain. Roof terraces are flat and prone to water pooling, increasing the risk of seepage.

How long it should last:

• Liquid-applied waterproofing

• Torch-on membrane systems: 

• PMMA

🚿 2. Bathrooms and Wet Areas

Why it matters: Daily exposure to water from showers and washing makes bathrooms the most leak-prone area inside a house.

How long it should last:

• Cementitious or PU coatings

• Sheet membranes

Tip: Always waterproof below the tiles—tile grout alone is not enough

🧱 3. Basement and Retaining Walls

Why it matters: Groundwater pressure can push moisture through basement walls and floors, leading to damp, odours, and even cracks.

How long it should last:

• External waterproofing membranes: 15–20 years (if properly protected)

• Internal tanking systems: 10–15 years

Note: Once done, repairs here are costly—so prevention is key.

🪟 4. Window Frames and Ledges

Why it matters: Poor sealing around windows and ledges can allow rainwater to seep in and damage interior walls and furniture.

How long it should last:

• Silicone or PU sealants: 

• Flashing/water stops/Gasket

🏡 5. Planter Boxes and Balconies

Why it matters: These areas hold soil or water and can leak into ceilings or walls below.

How long it should last:

• Waterproofing membranes or coatings

• Drainage systems

🧱 6. External Walls and Façades

Why it matters: Wind-driven rain can seep through porous wall surfaces, especially in Singapore’s tropical weather.

How long it should last:

• Water-repellent coatings or paints

• Full wall membrane

🧼 Maintenance Tip for Homeowners

Waterproofing doesn't last forever. Regular inspections—especially before the monsoon season—can save you thousands in repairs. Look out for:

• Hairline cracks

• Mould growth

• Peeling paint

• Damp smells

If you spot these signs, it’s time to act.

Final Thoughts

Waterproofing may not be the most visible part of your home, but it’s one of the most important. Ensuring the key areas are protected and maintained well can give you peace of mind and prevent major headaches down the road.

Many people often overlook the cost of waterproofing when purchasing a home; most of their budget is allocated to renovations. Homeowners typically regret this oversight and only address necessary repairs when damage occurs, especially to the carpentry, which often receives the most investment.

If you're unsure about the current state of your waterproofing, consider getting a professional inspection done—better safe than sorry!