If you’re a handy DIYer looking to protect your home from water ingress, look no further than liquid rubber. This miracle foundation sealant has become increasingly popular among homeowners looking for a reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-apply solution for sealing their foundations. In this comprehensive guide, I will help you learn all about liquid rubber technology and discover why it’s the best modern-day option for DIYers looking to safeguard their homes. So, let’s dive in!
What is Liquid Rubber?
Liquid rubber is an innovative foundation sealant that offers a long-lasting, seamless, and flexible waterproofing solution for various surfaces. It is typically composed of bitumen, latex, polymers, and other modifying additives, which when combined, create a single or double-component emulsion system. The unique properties of liquid rubber make it a popular selection among DIYers for high-quality waterproofing, suitable for various climates and temperature conditions.
The Benefits of Using Liquid Rubber as a Foundation Sealant
When it comes to sealing your foundation, liquid rubber boasts a long list of advantages compared to traditional sealants. Here’s why more and more DIYers are turning to liquid rubber for their foundation sealing needs:
Seamless Application
One of the most significant benefits of liquid rubber is that it forms a seamless waterproofing membrane when applied. Seams are known to be weak points in any waterproofing system, making liquid rubber a superior choice for long-lasting protection.
Excellent Adhesion
Liquid rubber provides 100% adhesion to the base, guaranteeing that the resulting coating won’t have cavities or voids where water can accumulate. Because it has such strong adhesion, any hole that can potentially form will not spread under the hole but will rather gather around it, preventing spreading underneath the coating. Conforms to Shape
Liquid rubber conforms to the shape of the surface it’s applied to, including any irregularities. This simplifies the application process and eliminates the risk of leaks in vulnerable areas, such as abutments.
High Elasticity
With a stretching coefficient of 600%-800%, liquid rubber offers impressive elasticity, allowing it not to tear or diverge when the structure or building shrinks. This feature is especially beneficial for dynamic nodes.
Environmentally Friendly
Liquid rubber is non-toxic and safe to apply, making it an eco-friendly option for waterproofing projects, including those involving drinking water tanks.
Easy and Safe Application
Liquid rubber can be applied by cold spraying, eliminating the need for permits for fire or other hazardous work.
Fast Application Rate
Applying liquid rubber via airless spraying can cover an average of 600 m2 per day, allowing you to complete large projects quickly and efficiently, ultimately reducing the cost of labor.
Warranty and Affordability
Given its reliability and high quality, most contractors and manufacturers of this product offer a 7-year warranty when using liquid rubber. Additionally, the price of liquid rubber is typically lower than other waterproofing compounds of the same quality.
How to Seal Your Foundation with Liquid Rubber: A Step-by-Step Guide
To get the most out of liquid rubber, it’s essential to follow the proper application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to seal your foundation using liquid rubber:
- Prepare the surface: Clean the surface from foreign materials, sharp bumps, and dust. Proper surface preparation is crucial for the success of subsequent work.
- Apply primer: A primer is applied to the surface to improve adhesion between the liquid rubber and the base.
- Apply liquid rubber: For single-component rubber, apply the material in multiple layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. For double-component rubber, use cold spraying with specialized equipment.
- Inspect and maintain: Regularly inspect the waterproofing membrane for any signs of damage or wear, and address any issues promptly to ensure long-lasting protection.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to seal your foundation, liquid rubber is a game-changer. Its seamless application, excellent adhesion, and high elasticity make it the ideal foundation sealant for DIYers looking to protect their homes from water ingress. With proper application and maintenance, you’ll enjoy long-lasting protection and peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure. And what’s more, you’ll save money by avoiding costly repairs that could arise from water damage. What’s not to love?