A comprehensive refurbishment project has restored efficiency, safety and long-term value to an elevated parking facility in Bardolino (Lake Garda, Italy), covering more than 11,000 m² above a covered parking area. The intervention involved the installation of a waterproofing system specifically designed to ensure long-lasting protection and outstanding performance, even under intensive service conditions.
The waterproofing of elevated parking structures is essential to preserve the functionality and safety of the structure over time. The use of polymer-bitumen membranes creates a continuous and effective barrier against water infiltration, one of the main causes of concrete deterioration and reinforcement corrosion.
The core element of the system is the MFT PLUS 4.0 mm polymer-bitumen membrane, installed in a double-layer application. The membrane was selected for its high elasticity and its ability to absorb mechanical stresses and substrate movements. The system is completed with a high-weight nonwoven geotextile protection layer and a new concrete pavement designed to withstand vehicular traffic and environmental exposure.
The result is a structure effectively protected against water ingress, offering enhanced durability and reduced maintenance costs, while improving safety and user comfort.
An investment that preserves the value of the structure over time, reduces maintenance costs and enhances the overall user experience.
SYSTEM INSTALLATION AND MATERIALS
Complete refurbishment of an existing parking facility, including the full reconstruction of the upper deck surface above a covered parking area.
🔹 Treated surface area:
11,000 m²
🔹 Waterproofing system: MFT PLUS 4.0 mm, double PE film, installed in a double-layer application
🔹 Substrate preparation: primer application on the concrete deck prior to membrane installation
System completion included:
• Installation of a high-weight nonwoven geotextile (TNT) to protect the waterproofing layer
• Construction of an in-situ cast concrete pavement
The use of a highly elastic membrane helps limit the formation of surface cracking in the concrete pavement, improving the overall durability of the system.
✅ The installation was carried out according to a structured technical build-up designed to meet the performance requirements of the project.
WHY WATERPROOF PARKING STRUCTURES?
Waterproofing parking facilities with polymer-bitumen membranes is essential for structural protection, durability and long-term cost efficiency. Below are six key reasons highlighting the value of a properly designed waterproofing system.
1. Polymer-bitumen membranes protect structural elements
In parking structures—particularly underground, elevated or suspended slab systems—rainwater can penetrate through the wearing surface and reach the concrete substrate, leading to reinforcement corrosion, cracking, carbonation and structural deterioration.
A polymer-bitumen membrane provides a continuous waterproof barrier that prevents water ingress.
2. Polymer-bitumen membranes withstand mechanical stresses
Parking facilities are subjected to heavy loads, constant vehicle movements, vibrations and substrate movements.
Polymer-bitumen membranes offer excellent elasticity and accommodate minor structural movements, reducing the risk of cracking and membrane failure.
✅ This makes them particularly suitable for heavily trafficked surfaces.
3. Waterproofing is an investment that reduces future repair costs
Although waterproofing represents an initial investment, it helps prevent significantly higher costs associated with structural repairs and rehabilitation.
A parking structure waterproofed with the appropriate system will have a longer service life, require less extraordinary maintenance and reduce the need for invasive future interventions.
4. Polymer-bitumen membranes provide excellent chemical resistance
Parking facilities are exposed to aggressive substances, including de-icing salts and other chemicals transported by water.
The membrane acts as a protective barrier, preventing potentially harmful substances from penetrating into the underlying layers.
5. Improved safety and user comfort
A properly waterproofed parking facility enhances safety, aesthetics and usability by preventing water leakage into lower levels, reducing dripping and staining, and limiting mould growth and material deterioration.
6. Reliable, compliant design solutions and compatibility with finishing systems
Polymer-bitumen membranes are compatible with:
• Drainage asphalt systems
• Protective layers
• Driveable concrete and asphalt pavements
• Certified multi-layer systems designed for vehicular traffic
✅ Summary
Waterproofing a parking structure with polymer-bitumen membranes is important because it:
• ✅ Protects the structure
• ✅ Extends the service life of the facility
• ✅ Reduces maintenance costs
• ✅ Improves safety and performance
• ✅ Resists mechanical loads, water and chemical agents
For further details and technical information, please refer to the following Technical Data Sheet:
• MFT PLUS
This project has been published on the Ingenio portal.
