Detailed Explanation of How to Use Waterproof Coating

Waterproof coating is a crucial material in modern building waterproofing projects. Its correct application directly impacts the effectiveness of waterproofing. This article will provide a detailed explanation of waterproof coating application methods to help you apply the right solution and ensure the quality of your waterproofing project.

1. Pre-Application Preparation

Substrate Preparation: This is the critical first step in waterproofing. The substrate must be solid, flat, and free of cracks, oil, and dust. Uneven or cracked surfaces should be leveled and repaired with cement mortar. Corners should be rounded to facilitate even coverage of the coating.

Moistening the Substrate: Before application, the substrate should be thoroughly moistened, but without any visible water. An overly dry substrate will absorb moisture from the coating, affecting film formation. Excessive water accumulation will dilute the coating and reduce its waterproofing performance.

Material Preparation: Mix the powder and liquid ingredients according to the product instructions. Use an electric mixer to stir thoroughly for 3-5 minutes until a uniform, particle-free slurry is formed. The mixed coating should be allowed to stand for 5-10 minutes to fully cure before use.

II. Coating Application Steps

First Coat: Use a brush or roller to evenly apply the waterproof coating. When applying, first address detailed joints, such as pipe bases, floor drains, and corners. These areas should be covered with an additional coat, with a width of at least 300mm. When applying to large areas, apply in a consistent direction to avoid missed areas and buildup.

Second Coat: Allow the first coat to dry (usually 4-8 hours, depending on ambient temperature and humidity) before applying the second coat. Apply the second coat perpendicular to the first, using a cross-coat pattern to ensure an even and complete coating.

Coating Thickness Control: The total thickness of the waterproof coating should meet design requirements and generally be no less than 1.5mm. A thickness gauge can be used for checking during application. For critical waterproofing areas, consider applying more coats or applying more thickness.

III. Application Precautions

Environmental Conditions: The ambient temperature for waterproof coating application should be between 5°C and 35°C. Avoid application in rainy, windy, or hot conditions. Too low a temperature will affect the film formation of the paint, while too high a temperature will cause the paint to dry too quickly, affecting its waterproofing effectiveness.

Material Quantity: The dosage required varies for different products. The dosage per unit area should be controlled according to the product specifications. Insufficient dosage will result in insufficient waterproofing layer thickness, affecting waterproofing effectiveness; excessive dosage will result in waste and increase costs.

Curation and Protection: After the waterproofing layer is applied, proper curing should be performed. Before the coating is fully cured (usually 24-48 hours), it should be protected from foot traffic, rain, and scratches from sharp objects. If a water-tightness test is required, it should be performed after the coating is fully cured.

IV. Treatment of Special Areas

Pipe roots: First, fill with sealing material, then apply waterproofing paint, lay a non-woven fabric reinforcement layer, and finally apply one to two coats of paint.

Corners: They should be rounded and reinforced with non-woven fabric or fiberglass mesh, with a width of at least 100mm.

Construction joints: The overlap between the new and old waterproofing layers should be at least 100mm, and the overlap should be tightly coated.

V. Quality Inspection

Appearance Inspection: The waterproof layer should be smooth and uniform, free of cracks, bubbles, or peeling.

Thickness Inspection: Randomly inspect the thickness using a thickness gauge. The thickness should meet the design requirements.

Watertightness Test: After the waterproof layer is fully cured, conduct a 24-hour watertightness test. The water level should be at least 20mm. Inspection indicates no leakage.

The above detailed application methods and precautions will ensure that the waterproof coating performs optimally, providing reliable waterproof protection for the building. During application, strictly follow the product instructions and specifications to ensure the quality and durability of the waterproofing project.