Is the Waterproofing Performance of GRC Good?

GRC material itself offers good waterproofing and water-impermeability performance, but how well it performs largely depends on its density, surface treatment, and the structural design of the overall system. High-quality GRC, produced with a low water-cement ratio and active admixtures, has a dense matrix structure and low water absorption; its 24-hour volumetric water absorption can typically be kept below 14%, far lower than that of ordinary concrete. Through optimized mix proportions and production processes, Qinglong GRC achieves even better water absorption levels and possesses excellent resistance to water penetration.

However, it must be clearly recognized that GRC is a cement-based material and is not absolutely impermeable. Under prolonged immersion or high water pressure, moisture may still penetrate slowly. Therefore, in architectural applications, GRC "waterproofing" relies more on "draining" and "channeling" than on simply "blocking" water with the material alone. In its engineering practice, Qinglong ensures the waterproofing reliability of GRC systems through the following measures: first, applying high-quality hydrophobic agents or waterproof coatings (such as silane impregnation agents and fluorocarbon coatings) to the surface of GRC panels, giving the surface a lotus effect so that rainwater can hardly wet it; second, strictly following the "rain screen principle" or "pressure-equalized cavity" design in curtain wall system design, ensuring that even if a small amount of moisture enters through the joints, it can be smoothly drained out through properly designed cavity structures and drainage paths, preventing accumulation inside.

In areas in direct contact with water, such as around swimming pools and water feature landscapes, additional waterproofing measures are required. For example, GRC components with a waterproof layer applied to the back can be used, or they can serve as a decorative layer combined with a structural waterproofing layer. In the landscape design of projects such as the Dongguan Women and Children's Activity Center, Qinglong applied special waterproofing and durability treatments to the water-exposed GRC components. In summary, GRC has a solid basis for resisting water penetration; through scientific surface treatment and system design, it can fully meet the waterproofing requirements of building facades, roofs, and other areas, though the design must be tailored to the specific application environment.