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Sunday, June 2, 2013

The Use Of A Concrete Moisture Barrier

By Rena Hudson


Damp floors and slabs can be disgusting. It makes the floor look messy while at the same time creating an undesirable look. Mostly, as result of moisture seeping through the concrete slab, it may finally lead to total destruction of the slab. To curb such instances, a concrete moisture barrier should be used.

Moisture barriers have been in use for many decades. Traditionally, polythene sheets have been used for this purpose. The sheets were laid over the concrete slab before a final layer is laid. This was used as a mode of protection for the floor coverings. For electrical appliances that may be placed on the floor, the moisture may have adverse effects. Polythene sheets are available in different thicknesses, the thicker the sheet the better.

Today the use of barriers in liquid form is picking up. This liquid formula is poured onto the floor slab and spread using a brush. It then seeps through the floor and bonds forming a strong layer that is difficult for the moisture to penetrate. It is normally applied before the final coat of the floor finish is laid.

The use of these barriers is common in areas where water logging is prevalent. They are applied to the floor and walls to prevent water from seeping through them though in other areas it may not be a requirement while constructing. However, it is important to have it applied as a precautionary measure. With the prevailing global warming, weather conditions are changing drastically and a once dry place can experience high rains and maybe floods.

The application process starts with cleaning the surface. The surfaces should be left clean by removal of any dirt, oils and any other particles that may hinder effective bonding of the barrier . For floors, any loose concrete must also be cleaned. This is followed by filling of any cracks, defects and holes that maybe on the surface. Construction joints on the surface will also require covering before the application.

This type of barrier is a composition of various chemicals that bond together after they react. These chemicals components are mixed at the time of application. They are then stirred together until they are even. The mixture is poured on the floor and spread by use of appropriate brushes. It should not be left in an open container for long and should be covered when not in use. After the first layer is laid, it is given a curing period of two hours and then a second layer is applied. Two layers of the coating are therefore necessary for an effective layer.

The products used for barrier applications form a hard substance after drying up. This creates the need to clean up equipments and materials used immediately after use. Any spillages should also be cleaned instantly. The final coating for the floor should be applied 72 hours after application of the barrier. This may vary with different temperatures in the region of application.

Products for use are available from various local stores. These are products from different manufacturers hence the need to gather adequate information on the right concrete moisture barrier to use. This information is available from the retailing stores or from online sources. You can also consult a construction professional for more guidance on this.




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