# Waterproofing terraces

> What’s the best roofing system / membrane to use on roofing of residential terraces in a condo? We’re using just a mod bit product now with pavers but feels like there needs to be an…

- URL: https://essential.construction/exchange/question/waterproofing-terraces/
- Publisher: Essential Construction (https://essential.construction/)
- Last updated: 2024-08-09

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What’s the best roofing system / membrane to use on roofing of residential terraces in a condo? We’re using just a mod bit product now with pavers but feels like there needs to be an easier solution.

## Answers

### Answer 1

Mod bit with pavers works, but it's labour heavy and hard to repair once the pavers are down. A few options worth looking at:

- **Liquid-applied PMMA membranes** (Kemper, Triflex, Siplast and others). Fully reinforced, seamless, fast curing and great around drains, door sills and penetrations, which is where most terrace leaks start.
- **Hot rubberized asphalt** with protection board, drainage mat and insulation on top (inverted roof). Very proven on condo podiums and terraces.
- **PVC or TPO single-ply** where details are simple.

Whichever membrane you pick, put the pavers on **adjustable pedestals** instead of a bed. Water drains freely, you can level easily and you can lift pavers to inspect or repair the membrane.

Spend most of your attention on the door thresholds. Most terrace leaks come from upstands that are too low at sliding doors, not from the field of the membrane.