Hydrophobizing Agents for Dry Mix Mortars Sales Market Outlook

The global market for hydrophobizing agents for dry mix mortars is estimated to reach USD 1.5 billion by 2035, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035. This growth is mainly driven by the increasing demand for construction materials that offer enhanced durability and water-resistant properties, especially in regions experiencing extreme weather conditions. The rise in infrastructure development and renovation activities globally has further catalyzed the necessity for advanced hydrophobizing agents in dry mix mortars. Additionally, the growing awareness of eco-friendly construction materials is propelling market players to innovate and develop sustainable hydrophobizing solutions to cater to environmentally conscious consumers. As urbanization continues to accelerate, the hydrophobizing agents market is poised for substantial growth, reflecting the broader trends in the construction industry.

Growth Factor of the Market

The market for hydrophobizing agents is continually expanding due to several compelling factors. Firstly, the construction industry is undergoing a transformation towards more sustainable and durable materials. As a result, hydrophobizing agents are increasingly recognized for their ability to enhance the lifespan of construction products by providing effective water repellency, thereby reducing the risk of damage caused by moisture. Furthermore, the rising trend of prefabricated construction has led to a growing demand for dry mix mortars, which are easier to handle and apply. Moreover, regulatory bodies are enforcing stricter standards regarding construction quality, driving manufacturers to adopt hydrophobizing agents that comply with these regulations. The technological advancements in chemical formulations have also played a pivotal role, enabling the development of more efficient and effective products. Lastly, the increasing urbanization and infrastructure projects in emerging economies present significant growth opportunities for market players to capitalize on.

Key Highlights of the Market

• Projected market size of USD 1.5 billion by 2035.
• CAGR of 6.5% from 2025 to 2035.
• Growing demand for sustainable and durable construction materials.
• Rising urbanization and infrastructure development globally.
• Technological advancements enhancing product efficiency and effectiveness.

By Product Type

Silicone-Based Hydrophobizing Agents:

Silicone-based hydrophobizing agents are widely used in the formulation of dry mix mortars due to their excellent water-repellent properties. These agents create a hydrophobic layer that prevents water ingress, making them ideal for applications requiring high moisture resistance. Their compatibility with various substrate materials and low volatility make them suitable for both internal and external applications. Moreover, silicone-based agents are known for their longevity, providing sustained water repellency over extended periods. The increasing preference for silicone in construction materials is driven by its ability to enhance the durability and aesthetic appeal of the final product.

Fatty Acid-Based Hydrophobizing Agents:

Fatty acid-based hydrophobizing agents are derived from renewable resources, making them an eco-friendly option in the dry mix mortar market. These agents exhibit effective water repellency while also providing good adhesion and flexibility to mortars. Their surfactant properties help to improve the workability of the mortar mix, which is a significant advantage during application. Furthermore, they offer compatibility with various cementitious systems, ensuring that the overall performance of the mortar is not compromised. The growing emphasis on sustainable construction has resulted in an increased demand for fatty acid-based agents in the market.

Wax-Based Hydrophobizing Agents:

Wax-based hydrophobizing agents are recognized for their unique ability to impart water repellency without significantly altering the physical properties of the mortar. These agents can be easily incorporated into dry mix mortars and provide a superior surface finish, making them ideal for decorative applications. Additionally, wax-based agents contribute to the thermal insulation properties of the mortar, further enhancing the energy efficiency of buildings. Their resistance to heat and UV degradation is an added benefit that makes them a preferred choice in various construction applications. The demand for wax-based hydrophobizing agents is particularly strong in regions with adverse weather conditions.

Epoxy-Based Hydrophobizing Agents:

Epoxy-based hydrophobizing agents are known for their exceptional adhesion properties and chemical resistance, making them suitable for high-performance applications. Their ability to form a durable, water-resistant barrier is crucial for protecting structures from moisture-related damage. These agents are often used in environments where extreme durability is required, such as industrial flooring and exterior coatings. The versatility of epoxy-based agents allows for customization depending on specific project requirements, which further drives their adoption in the construction industry. Their use is projected to grow as more industries recognize the long-term benefits of integrating epoxy formulations into dry mix mortars.

Polymer-Based Hydrophobizing Agents:

Polymer-based hydrophobizing agents are gaining traction due to their ability to enhance the mechanical properties of dry mix mortars. These agents improve tensile strength and flexibility, offering superior performance in construction applications. By forming a network within the mortar matrix, polymer-based agents provide not only water repellency but also increased durability against cracking and wear. Their compatibility with other additives allows for the formulation of tailored products that meet specific performance criteria. As the demand for high-performance building materials grows, polymer-based hydrophobizing agents are expected to see increased market penetration.

By Application

Tile Adhesives:

Hydrophobizing agents play a crucial role in tile adhesives, where water resistance is essential for durability and performance. The incorporation of these agents enhances the adhesion properties of the adhesive, reducing the risk of moisture-related failures such as delamination. Tile adhesives fortified with hydrophobizing agents also exhibit improved workability, making them easier to apply and adjust during installation. As the trend towards moisture-sensitive environments increases, the demand for hydrophobizing agents in tile adhesives is expected to rise significantly, driven by both residential and commercial construction projects.

Plasters:

In the plaster application segment, hydrophobizing agents are essential for providing water resistance and protection against mold and mildew. These agents help maintain the integrity of the plaster in humid environments, ensuring long-lasting performance. The use of hydrophobizing agents allows for greater flexibility in plaster formulations, enabling manufacturers to produce products that cater to various aesthetic and functional requirements. As the construction industry increasingly focuses on quality and sustainability, the inclusion of hydrophobizing agents in plaster products is likely to grow, supporting the rise of high-quality, moisture-resistant finishes.

Renders:

Hydrophobizing agents are vital in render applications, where moisture protection is paramount. The use of these agents helps to create a breathable but water-repellent surface, preventing water ingress while allowing moisture vapor to escape. This balance is crucial for the durability of both exterior and interior surfaces. Furthermore, hydrophobizing agents enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of renders, providing a smoother finish that is less prone to staining. With the increasing emphasis on energy-efficient building envelopes, the demand for hydrophobizing agents in render applications is projected to rise significantly.

Grouts:

In grout applications, hydrophobizing agents are essential for preventing water penetration and subsequent damage to tiled surfaces. The incorporation of these agents into grout formulations improves adhesion and reduces water absorption, resulting in longer-lasting installations. Additionally, grouts with hydrophobizing agents are less susceptible to staining and discoloration, enhancing the overall appearance of tiled areas. As consumers become more aware of the benefits of moisture resistance in high-traffic areas, the demand for hydrophobizing agents in grouts is expected to grow, especially in both residential and commercial settings.

Cementitious Waterproofing:

Hydrophobizing agents are crucial in cementitious waterproofing applications, where they provide a formidable barrier against water ingress. These agents enhance the water-repellent properties of cement-based materials, ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of buildings in water-prone areas. As waterproofing is a key requirement in various construction projects, the demand for hydrophobizing agents in this segment is substantial. Furthermore, the trend towards environmentally friendly construction has led to a rise in the use of bio-based hydrophobizing agents, providing additional opportunities for innovation and market growth in cementitious waterproofing.

By Distribution Channel

Direct Sales:

Direct sales channels have become increasingly popular in the hydrophobizing agents market, allowing manufacturers to establish strong relationships with end-users. This approach enables companies to provide tailored solutions based on specific customer needs and facilitates the dissemination of technical information regarding product applications. Direct sales also help in building brand loyalty, as customers have direct access to manufacturer support and services. As the market continues to evolve, the direct sales channel is expected to grow as companies focus on strengthening their customer relationships and enhancing service delivery.

Distributor Sales:

Distributor sales represent a significant segment of the hydrophobizing agents market, providing manufacturers with the ability to reach a wider audience. Distributors often have established networks within the construction and building materials sector, enabling more efficient product placement in diverse markets. This channel allows manufacturers to leverage the distributor's expertise in local markets, ensuring that products are effectively marketed and sold to end-users. As competition intensifies, companies are increasingly relying on distributor sales to enhance their market presence and expand their customer base across different regions.

Online Retail:

The shift towards online retail is reshaping the hydrophobizing agents market by providing customers with convenient access to products. E-commerce platforms enable manufacturers to showcase their offerings, along with detailed product information and customer reviews, facilitating informed purchasing decisions. The growth of online retail has been accelerated by the increasing adoption of digital technologies in the construction industry and the rising preference for online shopping. As consumers and businesses alike seek the convenience and efficiency of online transactions, the online retail channel is set to experience significant growth in the hydrophobizing agents market.

By Ingredient Type

Hydrophobic Silica:

Hydrophobic silica is a key ingredient in the formulation of hydrophobizing agents, known for its exceptional water repellency and low oil absorption properties. This ingredient enhances the hydrophobic characteristics of dry mix mortars, preventing moisture ingress and promoting long-term durability. Additionally, hydrophobic silica contributes to the overall workability of mortar mixes, making them easier to apply and adhere to various surfaces. As the demand for high-performance building materials continues to rise, the use of hydrophobic silica in hydrophobizing agents is projected to increase significantly, driven by its versatile application in construction.

Hydrophobic Resins:

Hydrophobic resins serve as crucial components in hydrophobizing agents, offering enhanced adhesion and water resistance. These resins form a protective barrier that prevents water penetration, making them particularly valuable in high-performance applications. The incorporation of hydrophobic resins into dry mix mortars helps to improve overall durability, reducing the risk of moisture-related damage. As manufacturers continue to innovate and improve resin formulations, the demand for hydrophobic resins in the hydrophobizing agents market is expected to grow, reflecting the increasing focus on quality and performance in construction materials.

Hydrophobic Polymers:

Hydrophobic polymers are gaining popularity in the hydrophobizing agents market due to their unique properties that enhance the durability and performance of dry mix mortars. These polymers offer excellent water repellency and flexibility, enabling the formulation of products that can withstand various environmental conditions. The incorporation of hydrophobic polymers not only improves adhesion but also enhances the overall mechanical properties of mortars, making them suitable for a wide range of construction applications. As the trend towards sustainable and high-performance building materials continues, the use of hydrophobic polymers in hydrophobizing agents is likely to increase significantly.

Hydrophobic Silicones:

Hydrophobic silicones are essential ingredients in hydrophobizing agents, providing outstanding water repellency and durability. These silicones form a protective layer that prevents moisture ingress while allowing moisture vapor to escape, maintaining the integrity of construction materials. Their compatibility with various substrates makes hydrophobic silicones ideal for a broad range of applications, from exterior finishes to interior products. As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes high-performance materials, the demand for hydrophobic silicones in hydrophobizing agents is expected to grow, driven by their unique combination of properties that enhance both aesthetics and longevity.

Hydrophobic Waxes:

Hydrophobic waxes are gaining traction as effective ingredients in hydrophobizing agents due to their water-repellent properties and ease of application. These waxes provide a smooth finish while preventing water absorption, making them ideal for decorative applications. Additionally, hydrophobic waxes contribute to improving the thermal insulation properties of mortars, which is increasingly important in energy-efficient construction. The growing demand for aesthetically pleasing and durable building materials is driving the adoption of hydrophobic waxes in construction projects, reflecting the broader trend towards high-quality, sustainable solutions.

By Region

The North American hydrophobizing agents market is expected to witness substantial growth, with a projected CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to the increasing investment in infrastructure development and the rising demand for durable construction materials. The United States and Canada are at the forefront of adopting advanced building technologies, leading to a heightened focus on hydrophobizing agents in dry mix mortars. The trend towards sustainable construction practices and the emphasis on energy efficiency are also driving demand in this region, with manufacturers increasingly looking to innovate in hydrophobizing formulations to meet evolving market needs.

Europe remains a significant market for hydrophobizing agents, supported by stringent regulations around construction quality and safety standards. The region's commitment to sustainable development and eco-friendly construction materials further fuels the demand for hydrophobizing agents, particularly those that are bio-based or have low environmental impact. Countries such as Germany, France, and the UK are leading the charge with ongoing infrastructure projects that prioritize durability and moisture resistance in construction materials. This focus is expected to create favorable conditions for growth, ensuring that hydrophobizing agents remain a crucial component in dry mix mortars across Europe.

Opportunities

The hydrophobizing agents market presents numerous opportunities for growth, particularly in emerging economies where urbanization is rapidly increasing. As populations expand and urban areas grow, the need for durable and moisture-resistant construction materials is becoming more pronounced. This trend opens avenues for manufacturers to introduce innovative hydrophobizing solutions tailored to local market demands. Furthermore, as governments in these regions invest in infrastructure development, there is a growing potential for hydrophobizing agents to be integrated into public works projects, thereby expanding their application scope. By leveraging advancements in technology and materials science, companies can capitalize on this growth opportunity to enhance their product offerings and tap into new market segments.

Another promising opportunity lies in the ongoing research and development aimed at creating eco-friendly hydrophobizing agents. As environmental concerns rise, there is an increasing demand for products that not only deliver high performance but also align with sustainability goals. Manufacturers that focus on developing bio-based or low-impact formulations will likely find themselves well-positioned in the market. The trend towards green building certifications and sustainable construction practices further supports the need for innovative hydrophobizing solutions, providing a competitive edge to companies that prioritize environmental responsibility. Overall, the hydrophobizing agents market is ripe with opportunities for those willing to innovate and meet the changing demands of the construction industry.

Threats

Despite the promising outlook for hydrophobizing agents, the market faces several threats that could impact growth. One significant concern is the volatility of raw material prices, which can affect production costs and profit margins for manufacturers. Fluctuations in the availability and cost of key ingredients may lead to price instability and ultimately deter customers from investing in higher-quality hydrophobizing solutions. Additionally, the emergence of substitutes and alternative technologies may pose a challenge to the market. As competitors continuously seek innovative products to meet customer needs, hydrophobizing agents could face pressure from newer, potentially more efficient solutions. To mitigate these risks, companies must remain vigilant and adaptable to changing market dynamics and customer preferences.

Another potential restraining factor for the hydrophobizing agents market is the regulatory landscape surrounding construction materials. While regulations are often implemented to ensure safety and quality, they can also present challenges for manufacturers seeking to comply with varying standards across regions. The complexity of navigating these regulations can result in increased costs and longer timeframes for product development and approval. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on sustainability may force manufacturers to re-evaluate their formulations and production processes to align with environmentally friendly practices. Companies that fail to adapt to these evolving regulations risk losing market share and credibility among environmentally conscious consumers.

Competitor Outlook

• BASF SE
• Wacker Chemie AG
• Sika AG
• Fuchs Petrolub SE
• Evonik Industries AG
• Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
• Dow Inc.
• 3M Company
• Chryso SAS
• Arkema S.A.
• Momentive Performance Materials Inc.
• Kraton Corporation
• Huntsman Corporation
• Celanese Corporation
• Ferro Corporation

The competitive landscape of the hydrophobizing agents market is characterized by a mix of global and regional players striving for market share in a growing industry. Key companies are focusing on product innovation and differentiation to meet the evolving demands of consumers. Collaborations, partnerships, and strategic alliances are also common strategies employed by these companies to enhance their product offerings and expand their market reach. Furthermore, leading manufacturers are investing in research and development initiatives to explore new formulations, including bio-based alternatives that align with sustainability trends. This focus on innovation not only helps companies to differentiate themselves from competitors but also positions them favorably within the marketplace.

Among the major players, BASF SE stands out as a leader in the hydrophobizing agents market, leveraging its extensive research capabilities and broad product portfolio to cater to various applications. The companyÔÇÖs commitment to sustainability and innovation is reflected in its development of eco-friendly hydrophobizing solutions designed to meet the needs of modern construction projects. Similarly, Wacker Chemie AG has established itself as a key player by offering a range of silicone-based hydrophobizing agents known for their durability and performance. The companyÔÇÖs focus on customer-centric solutions and sustainability has solidified its position in the market.

Sika AG is another prominent player in the hydrophobizing agents market, offering a variety of high-performance products tailored for different construction applications. The companyÔÇÖs robust distribution network and reputation for quality have enabled it to maintain a strong presence in both the residential and commercial sectors. Additionally, Dow Inc. has introduced innovative formulations that enhance the performance of dry mix mortars, thereby gaining traction among construction professionals seeking reliable and durable solutions. As competition intensifies, these companies and others will need to continuously adapt and innovate to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving hydrophobizing agents market.