Vancouver B.C. – October / December 2010
It’s a well-known fact that concrete deteriorates over time. Even the toughest, most durable reinforced concrete can become weakened and weathered in due course, leading to expensive and disruptive repair or replacement work. This is why Kryton International Inc. has designed and developed a new restoration and protection system specifically intended for above-grade concrete surfaces.
Introduced worldwide on 1 September 2010, the Hydrostop Restore & Protect System uses three products to restore and extend the lifespan of aging concrete infrastructure and buildings.
Hydrostop Grout is a non-shrink waterproof grout that acts as the first step of the Hydrostop System. It is used to repair any substrate defects, such as honeycombing, cracks or holes. The gray powder contains active ingredients that, when combined with water, form millions of needle-shaped crystals. The crystals grow in all directions, filling capillary pores and cracks, making the concrete waterproof.
Hydrostop Coating, the second product in the Hydrostop System, is a two-part polymerised cementitious topping mortar. It is applied as a slurry to the surface of the concrete using a stiff bristle concrete brush. The components of Hydrostop Coating come in a pre-measured kit for easy mixing and, when combined and applied to the surface, act as a barrier against water intrusion while providing more even colour and smoothness to the concrete surface.
The final step of the Hydrostop System is the Hydrostop Sealer – a clear, water-based sprayable liquid. It contains a unique blend of silane and siloxane compounds that when applied, react with silicates below the surface of the coating to produce a water repellent effect for long-term protection.
If a building is structurally sound, applying a concrete restoration system is considered the most cost effective option compared to a complete replacement. In fact, by using a system like Hydrostop Restore & Protect, the lifespan of a building can be considerably lengthened and replacement costs deferred indefinitely. One reason for this is that Hydrostop System provides a resilient surface with excellent water repellency, protecting not only the exterior of the concrete, but also the steel reinforcement inside. Hydrostop System also provides superior resistance to waterborne contaminants and chemicals such as sulfates, chlorides and acids.
Hydrostop Restore & Protect System also improves the aesthetics of the building exterior by providing a resilient surface with resistance to thermal cycling, providing even colour and texture of the substrate and building resistance to stains and mildew or moss formation.
Finally, Kryton’s newest system is easy to install and does not require any specialised equipment. In fact, Kryton provides full technical support, on-site training and consulting through the entire application process.
Patching mortars, liquid coatings, caulkings and paint are some common options for restoration and repair work on above grade concrete structures. While these options are commonly used and provide some benefits, they also possess noteworthy drawbacks. Often these products do not provide a long-term solution. They are not effective in addressing the full range of restoration needs, including cracks, spalls, honeycombing and water intrusion.
The individual products may seem inexpensive at first, but over time, repair and patching costs will escalate, as will hidden costs associated with facility downtime and disruption to the physical workplace during repairs. Finally, when using these products, consideration must be given to long-term protection from UV degradation.
Simply put, the Hydrostop Restore & Protect System looks after your building, investment and future. It is the new and best way to guarantee a healthy and long life for your concrete structure.
