Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Waterproofing Solutions!
Greetings!
We are back and this time we are here to stay. With great pleasure and pride, I assure that we will bring to you this
magazine on a regular basis now.
We try and cover topics that will be of interest to you. In past we received lots of contributory article from our ardent
readers. Your articles help us in capturing all the areas that are significant to construction chemicals. We hope that
going forward we will witness the same enthusiasm and encouragement.
Our efforts will not be complete without your feedback. Your feedback is valuable to us as we are constantly trying
to make Building Blocks more useful. We welcome any and all feedback and suggestions from you. Please take a few
moments to fill in the feedback forms attached with the magazine.
I trust that you will enjoy this magazine. Building Blocks will be published quarterly. So keep an eye out for the next
edition in December, 2010.
Best wishes,
Sushil Luniya
President
Construction Chemicals Division,
Pidilite Industries Ltd.
Editor's note
Dear Friend,
The last issue of Building Blocks featured a major article on Anti–Microbial Protective Coatings for Hygiene Wall
Surfaces.
We have witnessed a good monsoon this year. So if your customer's house has faced the brunt of the monsoon,
this issue will come to your rescue. In this issue, we bring to you the Best of the Best articles published in Building
Blocks so far.
This issue concentrates more on waterproofing; starting from ABC of waterproofing, rising dampness to leakfree
bathroom.
Pidilite is also proud to announce the launch of interactive guide to Healthy construction and Healthy Construction
Lecture Series, which is organized through Dr. Fixit Institute.
Also attached along with this magazine is a feedback form. It will be helpful if you could kindly fill & send it back with
your valuable inputs.
Bharat Gothoskar
Head - Marketing
Construction Chemicals Division,
Pidilite Industries Ltd.
Contents
PUBLISHED BY
No. Topics Page No.
Pidilite industries Ltd.
Regent Chambers, 7 Floor, 208,
th
Waterproofing in India, still looks like a foreign concept. Durability specifications must be incorporated in all three
According to the definition, it is the combination of stages:
materials or system designed to prevent water from }} Design Stage
entering or escaping from various sections of the
}} Construction Stage
building. We say escaping because in case of water tanks
water should not be allowed to escape through leaks. }} Maintenance Stage
Water that enters or escapes from the buildings can For example, in giving the number of outlets for drainage
cause serious damage to the building content and may of terrace water, one should consider ample slope and
lead to structural damage. Damage due to fire is another suitable size of outlet pipe. Invariably the number of
cause of building decay and deterioration. outlets are less and also the size is small in diameter. The
location of outlet is also important as it affects the flow
In case of seepage, the owner’s concerns are limited of water.
ABC of Waterproofing
Steel is then directly exposed to atmosphere, which clearing the blockages of the outlets.
further accelerates the corrosion and may lead to the If the slope is not properly provided in the terrace,
collapse of the whole structure. water logging takes place and ultimately seeps in to the
Water, though very integral for preparing concrete while building. The same needs to be corrected. Any cracks
construction becomes dangerous once the structure in the terrace and on top of parapet etc. need to be
is ready. We should try to keep out the water. The immediately rectified.
moment it falls on concrete, it should find a way out of In the interior of the apartment, there are chances of
the building. Slope and drainage should be provided to water seeping in through the window joints, cracks from
ensure water is drained. beam and masonry joints, toilet floors, pipe joints etc.
Today the focus is not on how strong the buildings are, One needs to attend to these immediately, before it
but on how durable the structures should be. Whatever damages the building’s interiors. The seepage can also
may be the strength, the important consideration is how damage some portions of RCC.
long will it survive. Even the latest revision of the IS:456- Today many ready-to-use joint fillers are available which
2000, focuses on durability. The buildings are designed can be used to seal the gaps. In case of window joints,
for a life span of 80 years. With proper maintenance ready to use
the building acrylic sealants
should last for are available
its designed life which the house
span. owner himself
But these days, can use to plug
the buildings the joints. In
undergo major bathroom, the
repairs within bathtub and
the first 15 to 20 washbasin joints
years. can be easily
Unwarranted plant growth on roofs Sealing of gaps using Sealant
sealed using the Walls are
sealants. neglected as far
as protection is
In case of
concerned.
leakages from
bathrooms and The objective
toilets, one needs of painting the
to use proper external walls
piping and the in most cases is
joints must to decorate the
Tiling with normal cement is shabby be filled with Use of a waterproof Tile Adhesive walls. But the fact
sealants. Today, is that we need to protect them with proper coatings.
most of the piping is concealed. So, care must be taken
Today, many aesthetic coatings are designed to offer
in sealing these joints properly. Once embedded, we will
elastomeric properties and waterproofing. There are
not know from where the water is leaking. Repairing this
will be far more expensive. Generally, it is observed that
customers buy expensive fittings but do not invest in
jointing material and quality of labour involved.
Building Blocks - vol. 19
For contractors undertaking terrace waterproofing in }} Ensure that the entrapped moisture� in the slab is
new construction here are some tips: within the limit of 15�
}} Visually inspect the slab for cracks closely from top }} Conduct the 'Hammer test' around the areas,
and bottom throughout the terrace. severely cracked
}} Conduct the ‘Hammer test’ around the areas, }} If there is a hollow sound, the cracks shall be injection
severely cracked. If there is a hollow sound, the grouted with cement slurry added with Dr. Fixit
cracks shall be brush applied cement slurry added Pidicrete AM.
with Dr. Fixit Pidicrete AM, ensuring that they are all }} In case loose / spalled concrete is observed, it may be
filled completely. removed to see if there is any corrosion in the rebars.
}} Wider cracks must be cleaned with a wire brush, and In case of excessive corrosion, the rebars should be
checked for its condition; if its diameter is less than
Building Blocks - vol. 19
}}
up with a polymer-modified mortar using Dr. Fixit
product selector from the Dr. Fixit Waterproofing Pidicrete URP. Such areas need not be cured with
range. water.
}} Post application check must be done during / after }} The entire area of the slab shall be injected with
the monsoon. If leakage is observed, look for the cement slurry added with Dr. Fixit Pidicrete AM at a
cracks in the membrane. If there are cracks, they distance of three feet along the breadth and span of
should be cleaned and overcoated with two coats the slab.
of the waterproofing membrane sandwiched with
a Polypropylene Fibre net (The PP Net should have
}} The waterproofing of the terrace then can be done,
been soaked in Dr. Fixit Pidicrete URP liquid and dried, using the product selector of Dr. Fixit waterproofing
prior to placing it for application.) The width of this systems.
net must be at least 4 inches on either side of the 2. If old waterproofing is not removed
crack.
}} Check for slope of at least 1:100.
Approach to Terrace Waterproofing & old Construction }} Clean the surface.
will be slightly different.
}} Remove 150 mm of vertical plaster on all parapet
1. If old waterproofing is removed walls - terrace junctions, to terminate the membrane.
There are to two ways of carrying these out terrrace }} Apply a 3 mm Dr. Fixit Torchshield waterproofing
waterproofing for old construction - removing the old membrane
waterproofing and retaining the old waterproofing.
}} Cover with 25 mm screed with a chicken mesh
}} Check the substrate and its bond with the roof deck in a panel of not more than 4 m x 4m. Apply a
and then decide whether the removal of the existing polysulphide sealant or a roof mastic in the control
substrate is necessary or not. [Consult Dr. Fixit if joints of the screed.
required]
Rising Dampness
Rajesh Singh, Proprietor of a Dr. Fixit Centre, Varanasi
Rising Dampness might not sound like an interesting topic, however, it is the most common and acute problem in the
country. It affects all the houses in some ways or the others.
A ground floor phenomenon, it is basically caused when However, it does not dry out the wall. It is imperative
ground water / other water seeps through the masonry, for the wall to dry before any decoration or painting is
resulting in wet patches that leads to aesthetics and done. All salt affected render and plaster will need to be
hygiene problems. It is very common in old buildings and replaced.
at times in new buildings as well. It happens when proper
The process involves the saturation of brickwork, treating
damp proof course is not laid or the damp proof course
the surface and re-plastering.
fails.
Siliconate is ideal for:
All these years, there was no full proof ready solution,
which could arrest the dampness. Traditionally, many }} Basement masonry walls
kinds of treatments, namely integral compounds, }} Masonry walls (above or at DPC)
membranes, repellents, coatings, etc. have been used, }} For internal walls in porous construction
which are not only expensive, but also fail to arrest the
The correct process of application involves:
Rising Dampness
or on both sides depending on availability of space
the seepage of
water / moisture }} Siliconate creates a damproofing course. It should be
from the ground injected in the lowest possible point
as the path }} The placing of holes may be done at 300 mm center
through masonry to center. If necessary, 2nd row of holes can be drilled in
is always available. With technological advancement. staggered condition.
it is now possible to eliminate the path and prevent }} Vertical distance may be placed 150 mm to 200 mm.
any water seeping from the masonry itself. Siliconate
Technology can do this, as siliconate is an excellent water
}} Fix 10-12 mm diameter nozzle or as specified. Place the
repellant. It is a very fine material, which when grouted nozzles inside the drilled holes with suitable material
in the masonry, repels water and prevents the leakage and allow it to set at least for a day before grouting.
from its source. }} Depending upon the severity of the dampness and
the materials used in the wall during construction, the
The right solution is to inject an aqueous solution of a
Siliconate is diluted by 1 part with 5 parts of potable
siliconate-based material. It is a low viscous solution,
water.
which penetrates easily. Once it impregnates in to
the brickwork, a durable gelatin product blocks the }} A hand pump which can create pressure of two bar is
capillaries. This arrests the rising dampness. required. Use a pressure-gauging dial. Inject the diluted
liquid by pumping till no more material goes in to the
A siliconate material has a lot of advantages. It is easy hole.
to apply, economical and has a much higher degree of
success in treating rising dampness. It is technologically
}} Allow it to remain for sometime before moving to the
superior and is an effective solution for both ordinary next nozzle.
and rising dampness. It increases the life expectancy }} Remove the protruding nozzles and seal the holes
of masonry. It protects moss and fungal growth and is with an appropriate compound (may be with polymer
less sensitive to frost-thaw cycles. It is water dilutable. modified mortar)
Siliconate stops the rise of moisture due to capillary rise. }} The treated areas are to be washed thoroughly.
Advanced Roof Waterproofing Technology
Using a UV-Resistant & Heat Reflecting Acrylic Co-Polymer Waterproofing Coating
Dr. Dien Pandiman, Technical Director, CHEMSON ASIA PTE. LTD, SINGAPORE
Architects and builders have started incorporating scientific methods to ensure perfection in the appearance of the
building. Slowly and gradually, technology has also evolved in waterproofing.
Waterproofing technology evolved steadily from “old” these properties, Dr. Fixit Newcoat can also reduce heat
hot/cold liquid applied bitumen to “new” water-borne built-up on roof by reflecting some harmful ultra violet
acrylic co-polymer waterproofing membrane. There are (UV), visible, and infrared radiations. Since there is only
many types of waterproofing materials to choose for small portion of heat absorbed on the roof as compared
different applications. Material selection is one of the to the “black” bitumen waterproofing membrane, hence
keys for a successful building envelope, i.e. waterproofing the roof is cooler and the heat transferred into the
system. The wrong choice of a waterproofing material building is less.
can be disastrous for a building.
Before selecting roof waterproofing coating we must
Due to environmental and toxicology concerns and make sure that it possess the following properties:
regulations, water-borne liquid applied acrylic co- Weathering and UV Resistance
Building Blocks - vol. 19
}}
treated with Dr Fixit Pidifin 2K, a flexible, heavy duty, is mixed with potable water at the proportion of 3:1
impermeable, seamless, two component, cementitous (powder:water) with trowel/slow speed drill (50-100 rpm)
polymer modified coating. until a homogenous
lump free paste is
Surface preparation: Surfaces to be applied upon
obtained. Care should
must be clean, reasonably dry, free from dirt and loose
be taken that the
material, and be as smooth as possible. Pre-wet the
quantity, which can
14 surface with water and allow surface water to evaporate.
be consumed within 2
Application: Apply by brush or roller, a coat of Dr Fixit hrs at 30°C. Adhesive
Leak free Bathrooms
2. Fine! But, what if one wishes to have a garden on his terrace Nowadays,
quite some societies/ commercial malls want to enjoy such a facility
If this is your requirement, then the system will be completely different. You MUST
Building Blocks - vol. 19
4. You just mentioned about applying Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K in water tanks with
brick walls. What does one do if the water tank is cast completely with RCC?
We have an answer for this too ! Capillary method of waterproofing is the best
solution for RCC surfaces. Dr. Krystalline or Roff Hyseal is the answer. Both the
products are based form powders. When mixed with water and brush-applied over
a properly pre- wetted concrete surface, the material will start penetrating into the
concrete pores and seals them. The penetration gradually deepens where needle-
like crystals are formed and makes the concrete watertight. More the aggression
of water ingress, more is the crystalline formation deeper and deeper. This system
of waterproofing is IDEAL for not only concrete water tanks and reservoirs, but
also for all buried concrete such as cable trenches, lift pits, etc. It serves as ideal
specification for waterproofing of swimming pools too ! In homes or commercial
buildings, the underside of leaking toilets / bathrooms or even roof slabs can be
remedied with this system, where one has no access from the top. Remember,
small cracks in concrete upto 0.4 mm will be sealed with the coating, but slightly
wider cracks must be injected with suitable materials as suggested by Dr. Fixit.
New Initiatives
New initiatives
like to build relationships. We use these events for
generating publicity in media through our PR agency. Dr. Casper Groot
New initiatives
Roff Launch
The first applicator launch took place in Ahmedabad a large product range that would solve their common
on 27th April with over 150 applicators in attendance. tile and stone fixing problems. After dinner, all the
The theme of the event was “Koi bhi problem... Ab no applicators were gifted a Roff Tool Kit.
problem!”. The event opened with ‘Laughter Champion’
Parag Kansara entertaining the applicators with his
rustic humour. Then, he interacted with the crowd to
understand the problems they faced. He then declared
that the solution for their problems “ROFF” is here!
After the entire range was launched with fanfare in
presence of Mr. Sushil Luniya, the applicators were taken
through the interactive AV “Roff Guide to Problem Free
Tile Fixing”. The applicators were delighted to see such
Dr. Fixit launches “Interactive Guide to Launch of Dr. Fixit Industrial Flooring
Healthy Construction” Dr. Fixit Industrial flooring has been launched to
Over the last introduce
decade, Dr. Fixit our complete
has promoted flooring solutions
the concept to flooring
of healthy applicators. Our
construction in range comprises
India through of Floor Hardners,
the Dr. Fixit Cementitous
institute. The aim Underlays,
is to disseminate Moisture Barrier
best practices in the construction industry through underlayments, Floor Refurbishment, Epoxy/ PU finishes,
educational courses, expert lectures and publications. PU Traffic deck Systems, Chemical Resistance Novolac
System and Ancillaries like Epoxy Putties, Epoxy-PU
Keeping in line with this objective; Pidilite has created
Hybrid Sealants, etc.
special interactive software for the builders community.
Building Blocks - vol. 19
The “Interactive Guide to Healthy Construction” not Launch of Pidilite Smartcare Hospitality
only covers the entire gamut of solutions provided by Dr. Module
Fixit but also includes application of other Pidilite brands
The company has also ventured
like Fevicol, Mseal, Roff etc.
into fulfilling requirements
The aim is to in health care and hospitality
provide right segment through its SMARTCARE
solutions to the range of products. These products
20
problems which are specially developed considering
are faced by the key requirements such as anti
New initiatives
New Products
Concrete structures like sunken portion, toilets, balcony, Recommended for residential and commercial floor and
basement, chajjahs, terrace, concrete repairs and water wall installations such as: kitchens, bathrooms, gang
retaining structures. showers and balconies in interior used only. Also for
patching of non structural cracks upto 3 mm.
Coverage Coverage
}} Coating/Slurry Mix Proportion : 100 kg cement : 50 }} Approximately 25.5 - 27.5 Sq. mtr. per 20 ltr. 2 coats
kg Powercrete Polymer for a total wet thickness of 1.0 – 1.5 mm.
}} Coverage varies based on substrate texture &
porosity, and application technique.
Packaging 1, 5, 20 & 50 kg container Packaging 5 Litre & 20 Litre
News
Activities of DFI –SPR (July - October 2010)
1 Build your structure waterproof 22nd & 23rd July 2010 DFI - SPR Premises Mumbai
2 Tackle cracks in structures – A holistic approach 8th October 2010 DFI – SPR Premises Mumbai
For participation in any of the DFI program & any enquiry related to Dr. Fixit Institute, please contact Tirtha Pratim Banerjee on
022 – 28357683 or e-mail at tirtha.banerjee@pidilite.com
22 Site: Monk, Kathmandu, Nepal Site: P. S. Ingle House, Nagpur Site: Valmark, Banglore
Product used: Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K for Roof Product used: Dr. Fixit Raincoat for exterior Product used: Dr. Fixit Fastflex for podium
News
treatment
Site: Calicut Tower, Calicut Site: NITTE Education Trust, Manglore Site: MIMS, Kottakal, Kerala
Product used: Dr. Fixit Newcoat + Dr. Fixit Product used: Dr. Fixit Raincoat for exterior Product used: Dr. Fixit Raincoat for exterior
Heatshield for terrace
Exhibitions
Applicator Level 1 - Meet, Kollam Applicator Level 1 - Meet, Cochin Dealer Meet, Cochin
News
Tile Mason Meet, Kunnamangalam SIS & Dealer Meet, Chennai Engineers Meet, Chennai
For any suggestions, please feel free to contact us at Pidilite Industries Ltd., Construction Chemicals Division,
Ramkrishna Mandir Road, P.O.Box No.17411, Andheri (E), Mumbai-400 059. Phone : 2835 7000, 2835 7111 • Fax : (022) 2835 7008
CALL DR. FIXIT ADVICE CENTRE TOLL FREE NO. FOR EXPERT ADVICE 1800 209 5504
• Website: www.doctor-fixit.com • email: drfixit@pidilite.com
Building Blocks - vol. 19
24
Printed, Published & Edited by Bharat Gothoskar on behalf of Pidilite Industries Ltd. Ram Krishna Mandir Road, Off. M. Vasanji Road, Andheri (East),
Mumbai 400 059 and printed from Amsit, 40-C, Sidhpura Industrial Estate, 1st Floor, S. V. Road, Goregoan (West), Mumbai 400 062.
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