PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1916525
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1916525
The global below-grade waterproofing membranes market is an essential segment of the construction materials industry, supporting long-term structural integrity and moisture protection in underground and foundation-level construction. In 2025, the global below-grade waterproofing membranes market size was valued at USD 2.92 billion. The market is projected to grow to USD 3.05 billion in 2026 and further reach USD 4.39 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period (2026-2034).
Below-grade waterproofing membranes are specialized barrier systems applied to foundations, basements, tunnels, and underground walls to prevent water infiltration. These membranes are commonly installed on the exterior of structures to form a continuous waterproof seal that protects buildings from hydrostatic pressure, groundwater seepage, and moisture-related structural degradation. Their increasing use in residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure construction is driven by rapid urbanization and rising investments in underground development.
Market Share and Regional Performance
Asia Pacific dominated the global below-grade waterproofing membranes market with a 47% market share in 2025. The regional market value stood at USD 1.36 billion in 2025 and increased to USD 1.43 billion in 2026, supported by extensive infrastructure development, urban population growth, and regulatory support for durable construction practices. China remains the leading market in the region, with a valuation of USD 0.92 billion in 2025, driven by large-scale underground construction and strict building codes. India is projected to reach USD 0.27 billion in 2026, while Japan is expected to hold USD 0.11 billion in 2026.
Europe is anticipated to account for the second-highest market size of USD 0.70 billion in 2026, supported by refurbishment projects, stringent environmental standards, and sustainable building practices. Germany leads the European market due to advanced construction technologies and a strong focus on durability and energy efficiency. North America is projected to reach USD 0.50 billion in 2026, with the U.S. market expected to hit USD 0.42 billion, driven by commercial construction, wastewater infrastructure, and tunnel projects. Latin America is anticipated to reach USD 0.19 billion in 2026, while the Middle East & Africa market continues to expand due to large-scale infrastructure projects and climatic challenges.
Below-Grade Waterproofing Membranes Market Trends
A key trend shaping the market is the rising adoption of green building practices. Builders and developers are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly construction materials that reduce environmental impact and comply with sustainability standards. Manufacturers are investing in recycled, low-VOC, and environmentally compliant waterproofing membranes to align with evolving regulations and green certification requirements. This trend is driving innovation in membrane formulation, durability, and lifecycle performance.
Market Drivers
Rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion are major drivers of market growth. Growing urban populations require efficient land utilization, leading to increased construction of basements, underground parking, metro systems, and tunnels. Waterproofing membranes are essential in these projects to protect structures from moisture intrusion, enhance service life, and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Additionally, the growing emphasis on structural durability and water intrusion prevention in building design is strengthening demand. Governments and regulatory authorities are implementing stricter building codes that mandate effective moisture protection systems, further boosting market adoption.
Market Restraints
The market faces restraints from fluctuating raw material prices and the need for skilled labor during installation. Bitumen, polymers, and petrochemical-based inputs are sensitive to oil price volatility and geopolitical instability, creating cost uncertainty for manufacturers. Moreover, improper installation can compromise waterproofing performance, increasing dependence on trained labor and specialized contractors, which raises overall project costs.
Market Opportunities
Rising awareness of water intrusion risks is creating strong growth opportunities. Property owners and developers increasingly recognize the financial and structural consequences of moisture damage, including mold growth and foundation deterioration. This awareness, coupled with stricter regulatory enforcement and a focus on long-term asset protection, is accelerating demand for advanced below-grade waterproofing systems.
Market Challenges
The market faces challenges from competition with alternative waterproofing solutions, including spray-applied membranes and liquid-based waterproofing systems. These alternatives often offer faster application and lower labor costs, increasing competitive pressure on traditional membrane systems.
Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily slowed construction activities due to project delays, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions. This resulted in reduced demand for waterproofing membranes during the early phases of the pandemic. However, post-pandemic recovery and renewed infrastructure investments have restored market momentum, supporting long-term growth.
By material, bitumen-based membranes dominated the market in 2024 due to cost effectiveness and ease of installation. The polymer segment is projected to hold 53.44% market share in 2026, supported by superior flexibility and water resistance. Rubberized asphalt is expected to grow steadily due to enhanced durability.
By end-use, the others segment (industrial and infrastructure) dominated in 2024, while the residential segment is projected to lead with a 63.93% share in 2026, driven by rising urban housing demand.
Competitive Landscape
The market is characterized by strong competition among key players such as GCP Applied Technologies, Inc., Mapei S.p.A., Minerals Technologies Inc. (CETCO), Sika AG, W. R. Meadows, Inc., and Carlisle Companies Inc. Companies are focusing on capacity expansion, technological innovation, sustainability initiatives, and strategic acquisitions to strengthen regional presence and meet evolving construction demands.
Report Coverage
The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global below-grade waterproofing membranes market, covering market size and value for 2025, 2026, and 2034, detailed segmentation by material and end-use, regional and country-level insights, market trends, drivers, restraints, opportunities, challenges, COVID-19 impact, competitive landscape, and recent industry developments influencing market growth during the forecast period.
Conclusion
The global below-grade waterproofing membranes market is set for steady expansion, supported by rising urbanization, increasing underground construction activities, and the growing emphasis on long-term structural protection. With the market valued at USD 2.92 billion in 2025, increasing to USD 3.05 billion in 2026, and projected to reach USD 4.39 billion by 2034, the industry reflects consistent demand across residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure applications.
Segmentation By Material
By End-use
By Region