Self-adhesive bitumen membrane (KSK)

When reliable structural waterproofing is required, but the use of an open flame is not necessary, self-adhesive bitumen membranes are an excellent choice. These modern cold self-adhesive membranes, KSK for short, offer a safe and efficient method of waterproofing without welding. They are ideal for sealing floor slabs against rising damp, for external basement walls and other sensitive areas. As your experienced specialists in waterproofing technology, operating throughout Germany, we are experts in the professional installation of KSK bitumen membranes (self-adhesive) and ensure lasting protection for your building.

What is a self-adhesive bitumen membrane (KSK)?

A KSK bitumen membrane is a waterproofing membrane based on high-quality polymer bitumen with a robust carrier layer. The highlight is the underside:

• Self-adhesive layer: A factory-applied, highly adhesive bitumen or rubber compound, protected by a removable film.
• Cold bonding: After removing the foil, the self-adhesive bitumen sheet is bonded to the prepared substrate by applying strong pressure. No external heat source (flame) is required.
• Seam joining: The overlaps are also usually self-adhesive or are cold-bonded with special system adhesives.

Advantages of the KSK bitumen membrane: Safe & efficient

Cold self-adhesive installation offers clear advantages:

1. No open flame: Maximum work safety, no fire risk. Can also be used on or near flammable materials (e.g. wooden structures, insulation materials).
2. Fast(er) processing possible: No heating up of equipment, no welding process - laying can be carried out quickly under ideal conditions.
3. Uniform layer thickness: The material thickness is controlled at the factory.
4. No thermal stress: The substrate is not stressed by heat.

Important application limits: Temperature & substrate!

Two factors are critical to the success of laying KSK bitumen membranes (self-adhesive):

• Processing temperature: The adhesive strength is highly temperature-dependent! The air and substrate temperature must comply with the manufacturer's specifications (usually at least +5°C to +10°C). Reliable bonding is not guaranteed at low temperatures.
• Substrate condition: The substrate must be perfect: solid, load-bearing, absolutely dry, extremely clean, free of dust and grease, smooth. A system-compliant primer is almost always essential to ensure adhesion.

Expert advice: KSK membranes are much less forgiving than welded membranes when it comes to temperature and substrate. The utmost care is mandatory here!

Areas of application: Where we use self-adhesive bitumen membranes

We use KSK bitumen membranes professionally throughout Germany for:

• Waterproofing on floor slabs (under screed/insulation) as a high-quality moisture barrier against rising damp (application in accordance with DIN 18533).
• External basement wall waterproofing (vertical surfaces).
• Base sealing in the transition area to the ground.
• As a waterproofing layer (often the first layer) on balconies or under decking.
• In all interior areas where flameless sealing is preferred or required.

Laying KSK self-adhesive bitumen membrane: The process

1. Substrate preparation: Meticulous cleaning, drying, leveling if necessary.
2. Laying: Align the membrane, remove the protective film step by step and immediately apply the self-adhesive bitumen membrane to the substrate without bubbles and with strong pressure (pressure roller!).
3. Seam bonding: Apply overlaps exactly as specified (observe width!) and press/roll on extremely carefully and firmly.
4. Connections & details: trough-style upstands on walls, precise work on penetrations, etc.

Quality assurance: professional execution is crucial

Only professional workmanship guarantees tightness:

• Compliance with temperature limits.
• Perfect substrate and primer application.
• Full-surface, bubble-free bonding.
• Seams and connections are absolutely tight.

Costs for self-adhesive bitumen membranes

The costs for KSK bitumen membranes (material) are generally higher than for standard welded membranes. The installation costs may be slightly lower due to the potentially faster work, but the effort required for perfect substrate preparation is often higher. A project-related calculation is necessary - we will be happy to provide you with a quote.

Your nationwide partner for KSK waterproofing

We offer you:

• Expertise in the selection and application of cold self-adhesive membranes (KSK).
• Professional installation with a focus on perfect substrate preparation and tight seams.
• Nationwide service, especially for the sealing of floor slabs as screed preparation.

Conclusion: KSK bitumen membrane - the modern, safe waterproofing option without a flame

Bitumen membranes that are self-adhesive (KSK) offer a safe and efficient alternative to traditional welded membranes where flameless working is required or preferred. The prerequisites for success are optimum ambient conditions and extremely careful application by a specialist.

Flameless sealing with KSK membrane? We advise you!

Do you need reliable waterproofing for your floor slab or other components and are looking for a flameless solution? Contact us for advice on KSK bitumen membranes and a quote - nationwide. By phone, e-mail or WhatsApp.