- Published: June 30, 2025
Nico Barbieri
Nico was the first person hired for the position of estimator and project manager for our growing company. He has over 25 years of experience in the water proofing industry. More About Nico
When it comes to protecting your foundation from Toronto’s unpredictable climate—wet springs, freeze-thaw winters, and everything in between—reliable waterproofing materials are non-negotiable. One standout in our professional toolkit is Aqua-Bloc®, a high-performance waterproofing compound trusted by experts across Canada.
In this article, we’ll break down what Aqua-Bloc is, how it works, and why it’s a go-to solution for long-lasting, flexible waterproofing—especially for foundations, basements, and below-grade structures.
What Is Aqua-Bloc?
Aqua-Bloc® 720-38 is a liquid-applied, rubberized asphalt membrane designed for waterproofing concrete and masonry surfaces. Unlike traditional waterproofing sheets or tar-based sealants, Aqua-Bloc is applied cold and cures to form a seamless, fully-adhered elastomeric membrane.
It’s manufactured by Henry Company, a leading innovator in building envelope systems, and widely used in both residential and commercial applications across North America.
Key Features of Aqua-Bloc
Here’s why Aqua-Bloc stands out from other waterproofing materials:
- Cold-Applied – No flames or torches required, making it safe for tight or enclosed job sites.
- Seamless Coverage – Cures into a continuous, monolithic barrier with no weak joints.
- Highly Flexible – Remains elastomeric even in extreme cold, allowing it to flex with foundation movements and seasonal soil shifts.
- Strong Adhesion – Bonds to concrete, masonry, wood, and metal.
- Low-VOC – Environmentally responsible and safe for indoor or partially enclosed spaces.
- Compatible with Drainage Boards – Works perfectly with dimple boards or insulation panels.
Where and How We Use Aqua-Bloc
At Aquatech Waterproofing, we use Aqua-Bloc in a variety of applications, including:
1. Exterior Foundation Waterproofing
We apply Aqua-Bloc to exposed foundation walls during excavations, creating a fully bonded waterproof membrane that prevents lateral water penetration from surrounding soil.
2. Underslab and Below-Grade Walls
In new construction or retrofit projects, Aqua-Bloc can be used beneath slab foundations or retaining walls, offering long-term moisture protection.
3. Cold Cellars and Porch Slabs
Moisture seeps easily into cold cellar walls—Aqua-Bloc forms an airtight seal even in curved or odd-shaped structures.
4. Transition Areas
Corners, seams, and pipe penetrations are always vulnerable. We pair Aqua-Bloc with reinforcing fabric to bridge gaps and create tight seals.
Installation Process at a Glance
Our certified waterproofing technicians follow a step-by-step process to ensure optimal results:
- Surface Preparation – Remove dirt, dust, and loose concrete
- Priming (if needed) – Apply compatible primer for better adhesion
- Liquid Application – Aqua-Bloc is applied with a trowel or spray gun at uniform thickness (minimum 2mm when cured)
- Curing – Let the product skin over (typically within 48 hours)
- Protection Layer – Install a drainage board or insulation over the cured membrane
- Backfill – Carefully backfill with clean soil to avoid membrane puncture
Why Aqua-Bloc + Aquatech = Long-Term Protection
While Aqua-Bloc is an industry leader, it’s only as effective as the team applying it. At Aquatech Waterproofing, we bring:
- Over 25 years of waterproofing experience in the GTA
- Certified application expertise
- Warranty-backed solutions for your peace of mind
- Custom waterproofing strategies tailored to your property’s age, condition, and drainage environment
Is Aqua-Bloc Right for Your Property?
Aqua-Bloc is ideal for:
- Properties with frequent water seepage through basement walls
- Homes with older or porous concrete foundations
- Cold cellar or porch leak problems
- New construction needing permanent moisture protection
It may not be suitable for surfaces exposed to high foot traffic or UV rays—our team will help determine if Aqua-Bloc, or another system like a sheet membrane, is right for your situation.
Ready to Waterproof with Aqua-Bloc?
If you’re looking for a flexible, seamless, and proven waterproofing solution, Aqua-Bloc combined with Aquatech’s expertise is a winning choice. We’ve helped thousands of Toronto homeowners and property managers keep their foundations dry and damage-free.
