The "best" membrane for waterproofing really depends on the application, environmental conditions, budget, and material being 

waterproofed. Following is a comparison of different types of membranes and where they are best at:

1. Liquid-Applied Membranes

Best For: Complex shapes, seamless coverage, and areas where flexibility is needed.

Material: Either polyurethane, acrylic, or bitumen-based liquids

Pros:

Easy application, even on uneven surfaces

Creates a seamless, joint-free barrier

Great for areas that are subject to movement or vibration.

Limitations: Skilled application is required, and multiple coats may be necessary to achieve uniform coverage.

2. Sheet Membranes

Best For: Uniform thickness and very high durability, particularly in highly stressed environments.

Material: Bitumen, EPDM rubber, or PVC.

Advantages:

Uniform thickness throughout the membrane.

Very high durability, puncture, and tear resistance.

Uniform quality is premanufactured.

Limitations: Careful installation required at seams and edges; adhesives or mechanical fastening required.

3. Cementitious Waterproofing Membranes

Best For: Concrete or masonry surfaces, particularly basements and water tanks.

Material: Cement-based compounds; some may be polymer-modified.

Advantages:

Easy to apply; both positive and negative water pressure can be applied.

Concrete and masonry integrations are possible.

Reasonable cost with long life expectancy.

Limitations: Less flexible compared to other options, making it less suitable for areas with significant movement.

4. Self-Adhesive Membranes

Best For: Foundation walls, below-grade applications, and areas where quick installation is required.

Material: Modified bitumen or rubberized asphalt.

Benefits:

Easy and fast to install, peel-and-stick application

Tough adhesion and excellent flexibility

Excellent for below-grade applications where mechanical fastening is difficult

Limitations: Surface must be very clean for proper adhesion, performance can be reduced in very hot or cold temperatures.

5. Thermoplastic Membranes, TPO, PVC

Best For: Flat roofs, areas exposed to UV, environments that require chemical resistance

Material: Thermoplastic polyolefin, TPO or PVC, polyvinyl chloride.

Benefits:

Resistant to UV rays and high resistance in extreme weather.

Light and seam welding heat-welded for a watertight seal.

The reflective properties allow this to create an energy-efficient finish.

Disadvantages The installation process requires special tools and talent.

Which one is the Best Membrane?

Roofs: Many people have stated that one of the best membranes for roofs is Thermoplastic membranes. TPO or PVC membranes offer 

great durability, flexibility, and energy efficiency. EPDM Rubber is one of the best for flat roofs; it is very long-lasting, especially when 

exposed to different weathering processes.

Self-adhesive bituminous membranes have greater effectiveness to the foundation and below-grade walls since it creates an adequate

 bond, allowing for soil pressures. Cementitious membranes are great for concrete surfaces at basements and wet areas since they are 

easily applied, offering high strength in preventing water from getting through. Liquid-applied membranes are preferred for complicated 

surfaces since this kind of membrane forms one continuous watertight seal on irregular shapes and surfaces. Conclusion

The best waterproofing membrane would be the one that would suit the needs of your project. Consider things like the surface type, 

exposure to elements, required durability, and how easy it would be to lay while making a choice. In most cases, it is always advisable to

 consult a professional on the right membrane to use and how to apply for maximum performance and service life.