Problem Solving Forum
February 1 - February 5, 2021
Can lightweight block (CMU) be successfully coated to prevent water intrusion, or is it best to build with standard weight?
Selected Answers
From
Zenith Czora of Durotech Industries, Inc. on
February 1, 2021:
Yes, t can be done. First you treat it with an imp ...read more
Yes, t can be done. First you treat it with an impregnating primer/sealer based on silanes and siloxane that makes the lightweight CMU hydrophobic but without affecting the adhesion of subsequent coating. this kind of primer has excellent depth of penetration, creating a sufficiently broad water-repellent zone beneath coating preventing salt, water & alkalis from being transported from the inside of the building material to the surface, strengthening of friable building materials surfaces, improvement in adhesion of the coating, alkali resistant, permeable to water vapour & CO2, so does not affect the breathing behaviour of mineral substrates,and aqueous.
Then overcoat the treated surface with Liquid applied waterproofing membrane. There are so many selection of water proofing membrane based on chemistry and their intended application. These waterproofing membranes will prevent any intrusion of water and as well as provide crack-bridging capability due to its excellent elasticity and flexibility