Water ingress remains one of the leading causes of deterioration in concrete and masonry structures whether it is from rising damp, roof leaks, water-
Water ingress remains one of the leading causes of deterioration in concrete and masonry structures whether it is from rising damp, roof leaks, water-retaining structures or exposed concrete surfaces which makes selecting the correct waterproofing solution critical to achieving long-term durability and performance.
South African concrete chemical manufacturer A.Shak has developed a range of waterproofing products designed to address specific challenges encountered in both residential and commercial construction. The company’s established portfolio includes AquaLoc, DampLoc, WaterLoc, DriKon and Sprayseal products that have been used across the construction industry for decades.
According to A.Shak director Cindy Engels each product has been formulated to fulfil a distinct role which allows users to select a solution that matches the application requirements.
Flexible Surface Waterproofing
AquaLoc is a flexible copolymer latex waterproof coating designed for use on roofs, walls, floors and a variety of concrete and masonry surfaces. Once cured the coating forms a durable waterproof membrane capable of accommodating minor substrate movement through its ability to stretch and contract without cracking. It is particularly suitable for structures exposed to temperature fluctuations and weathering conditions where conventional rigid coatings may fail over time.
Application is straightforward and with adequate surface preparation can be applied by brush, roller or spray equipment. Two coats are typically recommended with the first coat allowed to dry before the second is applied. The result is a resilient protective barrier that provides long-term resistance to water penetration.
Combatting Rising Damp
Rising damp is an enormous problem in many buildings and causes damage to finishes and can eventually damage structural elements. DampLoc has been specifically developed to address this issue. A styrene acrylic copolymer-based coating which seals concrete as well as brickwork and cement-based plaster surfaces and stops moisture migration through walls and floors.
For application the surfaces should be cleaned thoroughly using a suitable degreaser or sugar soap solution before application. Two coats are typically applied by brush allowing sufficient curing time between coats to establish an effective moisture barrier. The product is widely used in refurbishment projects as well as preventative waterproofing during construction.
Waterproofing Water-Retaining Structures
Where waterproofing requirements extend beyond surface protection WaterLoc offers an effective solution as a waterproofing admixture incorporated directly into cement-based mixes. The copolymer latex additive enhances the waterproofing characteristics of screeds and plasters used in water-retaining and below-ground structures including ponds, canals, tunnels, showers and basements.
By becoming an integral part of the cement matrix WaterLoc assists in reducing permeability and improving resistance to water ingress. Proper surface preparation and repair of joints and voids remain essential before application of the waterproofed plaster or screed system.
Accelerated Hardening and Water Resistance
For smaller construction projects and non-structural concrete applications DriKon has earned a longstanding reputation within the industry. Used for more than six decades, the product functions as a rapid-hardening concrete additive while simultaneously improving water resistance. It is commonly specified for applications such as fence post installations, gate track foundations, manhole chambers, paving and general plastering work.
By reducing setting times DriKon enables contractors to complete installations more efficiently while achieving improved resistance to moisture penetration.
Invisible Protection for Exposed Surfaces
Sprayseal provides a different approach to waterproofing by acting as a penetrating water repellent rather than forming a surface coating. The water-based siloxane treatment delivers excellent resistance to carbon and chloride ingress while repelling water from concrete, brickwork, plaster, grout and painted surfaces. This makes it particularly valuable for protecting structures exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
Application is typically carried out using either a backpack or handheld sprayer. Once the surface has been saturated, the product penetrates into the substrate and cures without altering the appearance of the treated surface. Unlike many coating systems Sprayseal generally requires only a single application to provide effective protection.
Matching the Product to the Application
Effective waterproofing begins with selecting a product that addresses the specific source and mechanism of water ingress. Surface coatings, penetrating repellents, waterproofing admixtures and rapid-setting additives each serve a different purpose and should be specified accordingly.
With decades of experience supplying waterproofing solutions to projects throughout South Africa, A.Shak continues to provide products suited to applications ranging from residential maintenance to large-scale civil engineering works.
Understanding the performance characteristics of each waterproofing system allows contractors and property owners to maximise durability, reduce maintenance requirements and protect concrete structures against the long-term effects of moisture exposure.
