Avoiding common mistakes with SANI-TRED products is crucial to ensure the best results for your waterproofing and repair projects. Carefully reading and following the instructions provided with the product will help achieve the desired outcome and maximize the benefits of SANI-TRED products for your projects. This guide will help you identify and avoid common pitfalls to ensure your waterproofing projects are successful.
More common mistakes with SANI-TRED is not removing previously applied products, which can inhibit the first coat of PermaFlex® from absorbing into the concrete and permanently adhering. Residual coatings or sealers can prevent PermaFlex® from bonding correctly to the concrete, compromising the integrity of the waterproofing system. To ensure a clean surface, thoroughly strip any old coatings and ensure that the concrete is bare before application. This step is fundamental for achieving a strong, lasting bond.
More common mistakes with SANI-TRED products is not following the acid etching instructions. For poured concrete floors, acid etching followed by neutralization is necessary. The instructions provided with the materials should be followed meticulously. Skipping this step can lead to poor absorption of PermaFlex®, resulting in inadequate adhesion and potential failure of the waterproofing layer. Acid etching opens up the pores of the concrete, allowing the PermaFlex® to penetrate deeply and form a strong bond. After etching, it is crucial to neutralize the acid and rinse the surface thoroughly to remove any residues.
Applying PermaFlex® to wet or damp concrete is another significant mistake. If the concrete is wet or damp, it can prevent proper absorption and penetration. To ensure the concrete is dry, a propane weed-burning torch can be used as a reliable method for removing residual moisture. This precaution helps guarantee that the concrete is in the ideal condition for applying the waterproofing product. Moisture can be a major hindrance to achieving the desired results, as it can interfere with the bonding process and lead to failures in the waterproofing layer.
Applying PermaFlex® too thickly is also a common mistake with SANI-TRED. The recommended application rate is 240 square feet per gallon. Applying it more thickly than this can cause the product to fizz, foam, swell, and grow, which, although primarily a cosmetic issue, can still affect the overall appearance and possibly the performance. PermaFlex® should not be used to fill cracks or voids or to smooth out rough areas. If the product does expand, the affected areas can be trimmed away and patched using an LRB/TAV mixture to restore a smooth surface. Ensuring the correct application thickness is essential for both aesthetic and functional reasons.
Mixing the TAV (Thickening Activator) with LRB (Liquid Rubber Base) correctly is also vital. To achieve the thickest possible mixture, a 2:1 ratio of LRB to TAV should be used, mixed with a drill and mixing paddle. Using less TAV results in a runnier mixture, which might be appropriate for certain applications. However, using significantly more TAV than recommended can produce a crumbly, degraded mixture that is unusable and must be removed. Proper mixing ensures that the product maintains its integrity and performs as expected.
In summary, avoiding these common mistakes with SANI-TRED involves careful surface preparation, precise mixing, and correct application thickness. Removing any previously applied products ensures that the concrete is ready to absorb the PermaFlex®. Acid etching and neutralizing the concrete surface according to the provided instructions is essential for promoting proper adhesion. Ensuring the concrete is dry before application prevents issues with absorption and bonding. Applying PermaFlex® at the correct thickness avoids unwanted cosmetic and functional issues. Properly mixing the LRB and TAV components maintains the integrity of the mixture, ensuring it performs as expected.
Following these guidelines ensures that SANI-TRED products perform to their full potential, providing durable and effective waterproofing solutions for your concrete projects. Adhering to these best practices minimizes the risk of application failures and maximizes the longevity and effectiveness of the waterproofing system. By being meticulous in your preparation and application, you can achieve a waterproof, resilient surface that stands the test of time. With careful attention to detail and adherence to the instructions, your SANI-TRED projects will be successful, delivering the waterproofing protection you need.
Sanitred Waterproofing Products 1221 Stewart Rd. Lima, Ohio 45801
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