Liquid glass for waterproofing: reliable protection against moisture

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The list of modern materials that create a water-repellent layer is very wide. Among them, liquid glass rightfully occupies a place of honor. It is used for waterproofing on various objects. The unique properties of the product create protection from moisture not only on the floor, foundation, but also on car headlights, as well as in structures that have direct contact with water, in particular in swimming pools or wells. This article will talk about this.

Liquid glass is rightfully considered one of the best means for waterproofing.

Features, characteristics and composition of liquid glass

A popular product in construction, everyday life and creativity, called liquid glass, is a viscous, homogeneous substance. According to the chemical formula, it is an aqueous solution of sodium silicate or potassium silicate. The product contains microcrystals, which, after application, are perfectly absorbed and penetrate into the middle of the porous material, where they increase in size. When hardened, they create excellent waterproofing and make the surface airtight.

Liquid glass is an aqueous solution of potassium or sodium silicate

Due to its high penetrating ability, the material is also called soluble glass. It consists of molten quartz sand or soda, potassium or sodium silicate. The technological process of creating the product involves burning, crushing and thoroughly mixing its components. The versatility of liquid glass is due to its characteristics, including:

• water-repellent properties, that is, water-repellent ability;
• antiseptic effect that prevents the formation of bacteria, fungi and mold;
• antistatic – after coating with the product, the surfaces are not electrified and are less covered with dust;
• high degree of hardening, which helps create additional strength of the material;
• protection from alkalis and acids;
• fire resistance.

Advantages and disadvantages, areas of application, features of liquid glass processing

The versatility of the product suggests its wide use in various areas of production. Most often used in construction. Processing with liquid glass is carried out in cases where it is necessary to carry out the following types of work:

Liquid glass is excellent for waterproofing wood

• foundation waterproofing;
• creating a waterproof layer on walls, ceilings and floors in underground rooms;
• waterproofing of swimming pools and wells;
• addition to concrete to enhance water-repellent qualities and strength characteristics;
• dust removal of concrete floor surfaces;
• waterproofing wood;
• creation of bactericidal grout;
• quick gluing of different materials;
• use as a quick-drying substance;
• creation of fireproof coating;
• protection of tree trunks after cutting;
• use as a sealant in plumbing work;
• cleaning surfaces and utensils;
• decorating walls and creating self-leveling floors.

Helpful advice! A wide range of positive qualities, as well as the environmental friendliness and harmlessness of liquid glass, suggest its use not only in construction, but also in everyday life.

One of the ways to protect the foundation of a house from moisture is waterproofing with liquid glass - reviews from both experienced craftsmen and novice builders indicate a high degree of waterproofness of the film that covers the surface. Additional benefits are provided by other advantages of the material:

Soluble glass creates a waterproof layer on the treated surface

• high degree of adhesion;
• low consumption of funds;
• affordable price compared to other sealants;
• at least a five-year service life of the waterproofing layer;
• Possibility of use in conditions of high humidity.

The main disadvantages of waterproofing with liquid glass

While listing the advantages of the product, it is necessary to mention the disadvantages that this universal product has:

1. Limited in combination with other materials, since this composition can only be applied to concrete surfaces and wood products. Liquid glass cannot be used on brick surfaces, as it will contribute to its destruction.
2. Impossibility of use in its pure form. Waterproofing is carried out with the addition of other materials, the absence of which will lead to the destruction of the protective layer.
3. Mandatory compliance with the proportions of liquid glass in combination with other components of the solution. Otherwise, the waterproofing properties and strength characteristics of the mixture will be lost.

The silicate solution must be applied very quickly so that it does not have time to dry out.

In addition, this composition is characterized by the complexity of application technology. To carry out waterproofing, certain skills are required. The work cannot be slow, as the mixture dries very quickly. For the same reason, it is better to mix the solution in small quantities.

Thus, the material itself is truly a universal means used to impart water-repellent properties to various surfaces. The success of its application depends on strict adherence to the rules of work and the proportions of liquid glass for waterproofing.

Properties of silicate composition

Coating the base with liquid glass gives it a number of additional properties:

• Increase in hydrophobic indicators. This is especially true for structures that regularly come into contact with liquid. A coating with the addition of liquid glass is ideal for swimming pools, basement buildings with the possibility of penetration of atmospheric precipitation and similar structures.
• Accelerated hardening. When covering the base with a standard cement-sand mortar, it will take up to five days for it to completely harden. Adding liquid glass reduces this period to a day.
• Increased waterproofing. Silicate material has antiseptic properties. Its use does not allow fungi and bacteria to multiply in the coating area. This is why surfaces treated with silicate glass are protected from mold.
• Increased heat resistance. Resistance to elevated temperatures for ordinary cement mortar is determined by 200 degrees. This means that if this indicator is exceeded, the base is deformed. The presence of sodium silicate in the solution increases the heat resistance. In this version, the coating can withstand temperatures above 1500 degrees. The use of such a mixture is in demand in the construction of stoves and fireplaces.

How to use liquid glass for waterproofing: methods of application

There are different ways to use silicate solution to give objects water-repellent properties. You need to familiarize yourself with them before using liquid glass for waterproofing in order to choose the most effective and appropriate technology in a particular case. Main methods of using the product:

• method of coating;
• penetration technique;
• adding material to concrete.

Most often, liquid glass is applied by coating or added to concrete.

The coating method helps to create the most effective surface protection; in particular, it is used when waterproofing the foundation as a preliminary layer, which is applied under roll insulation. For this purpose, this product (in its pure form) is applied to the concrete surface in two layers. After the liquid glass has completely dried, the main stage of insulation work is performed.

Helpful advice! Applying a coating layer to a concrete surface not only provides additional waterproofing, but also protects it from the appearance and development of harmful organisms, fungi and mold.

The penetrating technique is indispensable when the surface to be treated is difficult to reach. In this case, do not use pure liquid glass, but mix it with water in a 1:1 ratio and add another part of the dry building mixture. The solution is thoroughly mixed and applied immediately, as it dries very quickly. It is recommended to prepare a small amount of the mixture.

The coating method allows you to create high-quality surface protection

It is important to thoroughly clean the surface to be treated before applying the solution. In this case, the adhesion of materials will occur faster and will be more reliable. The mixture is applied using a spatula and the surface is covered with a wet cloth, which prevents cracking of the coating.

Advantages and disadvantages

The use of liquid glass in accordance with the recommended dosages and the correct technology significantly improves the properties of concrete:

• creates a stable barrier from groundwater and atmospheric moisture;
• increases heat resistance, acid resistance;
• accelerates hardening;
• increases strength and frost resistance;
• prevents the spread of fungi and mold;
• extends the service life of surfaces.

You can process structures from the outside or inside. Material consumption is economical - 150-300 g/m², and the price is low - from 25 rubles / liter. The service life of the coating is up to 5 years. Then the application is repeated.

Disadvantages include:

• fast setting time, the need to prepare the mixture in small portions;
• fragility of the surface film, additional protection with rolled materials is required;
• during mechanical processing - drilling, gating - the waterproofing properties of the film are violated;
• changing proportions worsens the quality of the finished product;
• incompatibility with some materials - organic resins, solvents, cannot be applied to brick walls.

The disadvantages are offset by precise dosage and correct technology.

Application of liquid glass for concrete waterproofing

Adding silicate solutions to concrete in order to increase its water-repellent properties is the most popular way to use liquid glass in construction. This method allows you to create a monolithic foundation and provide reliable waterproofing. These two factors perfectly explain why liquid glass is added to concrete. The procedure for preparing the mixture is simple. You can do this yourself.

The main thing in this process is consistency in adding components and maintaining the proportions of liquid glass and cement for waterproofing. To prevent cracking and destruction of concrete, it is important to consider the conditions in which the finished mortar will be used. To do this, you must follow these rules:

When using liquid glass with concrete, you must strictly follow the instructions

1. Soluble glass is not added to the finished cement mortar. First, prepare the dry mixture, then gradually dilute it with a stream of liquid glass mixed with water, thoroughly mixing the solution.
2. When adding silicate mortar to cement, it is important to strictly follow the instructions, which recommend strict adherence to the proportions of liquid glass in concrete. For waterproofing, this figure is only 3%, although in other cases it can reach 25% (of the total mass).
3. When adding a sodium silicate mixture, the concrete solution quickly hardens. The work is simplified by adding water or making minimal portions.
4. It is not recommended to prepare the solution in a concrete mixer, as it will begin to harden even during the mixing process.

Liquid glass for waterproofing concrete: ratio of materials

There are a number of subtleties in mixing cement-sand mortar with liquid glass for waterproofing. The proportions of concrete and silicate agent are generally 10:1. In rare cases, a different ratio of materials may be used.

As a rule, to prepare the solution, take 10 parts of concrete and 1 part of soluble glass

Attention! Under no circumstances should water be added to the finished mixture of concrete and liquid glass after the solution has been mixed.

The process and duration of its hardening depend on how much glue is added to the composition:

• if the solution contains 2% liquid glass, then the setting process will begin in approximately 45 minutes, and complete hardening will occur within a day;
• adding 5% of the product to the cement-sand mixture will entail an accelerated hardening process, which will begin in half an hour, and the final result will be noticeable after 16 hours;
• 8% soluble glass in the solution will set in a quarter of an hour, and the concrete will dry completely after 7 hours;
• The setting process with a proportion of 10% will occur within 5 minutes, and complete hardening will occur in just 4 hours.

When deciding whether it is possible to add liquid glass to concrete, it is important to take into account the type of cement. In this case, the M300 and M400 brands are applicable. To achieve a waterproof effect, the amount of glue is increased, but its maximum value should not exceed 25%. To prepare the solution, it is best to use a construction mixer, adhering to the following principles:

The solution must be mixed thoroughly; for this it is better to use a construction mixer

• You need to use clean drinking water, without impurities and salts, the maximum amount per batch is 10 liters;
• add liquid glass to the water and mix;
• the liquid is poured into a larger container;
• gradually add sand-cement dry mixture to the water-silicate solution;
• the solution is stirred until a homogeneous mass is obtained.

Preparation of silicate solution - tools and consumables

Experts advise using mixtures that are added to liquid glass. These mixtures serve the purpose of hardening when exposed to air and providing high strength. These mixtures are expensive. Most often, repairmen buy the necessary ingredients to prepare such mixtures with their own hands. In order to do this you will need the necessary tools.

The tools you need to have are a bucket that will be used for work needs. You will also need a drill to mix the solution, so it should have a screw-type attachment. A brush may also be required.

You will also need cement, sand, which must be finely sifted, and a source of water, such as a well. Also, as far as we know, the solution hardens very quickly and firmly, so it is necessary to have special clothing.

To obtain the desired solution, you need to mix water and liquid glass. The proportions of water and liquid glass depend on what type of work the solution will be used for. It is recommended to use cold water during the mixing process as this will make it easier to control the quantity.

The feasibility of waterproofing with liquid glass at various sites

The use of liquid glass with cement for waterproofing is popular in various cases, which is primarily due to the reliability of waterproof protection, the affordable price of materials and a number of other factors that allow the product to be used in various fields:

Related article:

Liquid glass for concrete: the versatility of silicate mixture

Composition of the solution, scope of application, rules of use. Drawing up proportions. Cost of the mixture and customer reviews.

• coating concrete with liquid glass on the street and in the middle of the room makes it practically invulnerable to moisture and suggests its use under water;
• waterproofing a pool with liquid glass is a less troublesome process compared to using other materials for this purpose, allowing you to get excellent results at low cost;
• waterproofing the basement using sodium silicate will protect the underground room from the penetration of groundwater and melt water, and will also save it from the formation of mold and fungi;
• waterproofing the foundation with liquid glass will protect the entire building from moisture entering the middle of the room, which is especially important in places where groundwater is located close to the surface of the earth;

Silicate solution is ideal for waterproofing horizontal surfaces

• applying a water-repellent layer of liquid glass to the walls of premises is a less popular method of waterproofing, relevant mainly for underground premises;
• liquid glass used for waterproofing a well helps to create reliable protection against loss of water from the tank, and the effectiveness increases if a double layer is applied;
• Waterproofing a floor with liquid glass is most effective, as it penetrates into the smallest pores and cracks of any surface, which is due to the chemical properties of the material.

Helpful advice! In addition to providing reliable waterproofing of the floor, liquid glass acts as an antiseptic and can be used as an adhesive for installing any rolled or block flooring.

Expert advice

Liquid glass is added in a volume of 5% of the total mass. You must first prepare everything for pouring the foundation; for this, excavation work is carried out, formwork is installed and the reinforcement frame is laid. Sand is mixed with cement, liquid glass is dissolved in water, and then the ingredients are combined and mixed. After adding crushed stone, you should immediately begin pouring the foundation.

Do-it-yourself waterproofing with liquid glass: general recommendations

Before applying a sodium silicate solution or carrying out cement waterproofing with liquid glass, any surface (or object) is thoroughly cleaned of dust and dirt, followed by a standard set of actions:

Soluble glass can be applied with brushes, rollers or a spatula

1. Coating the surface with the mixture using a brush, roller or spatula (if cement is added to the solution to the liquid glass).
2. Apply (if necessary) a second coat at half-hour intervals.
3. Preparing a solution for the protective layer if the waterproofing involves the use of concrete. The components are quickly mixed and applied, preventing the mixture from hardening.
4. Reusing or storing cement-sand mortar with the addition of liquid glue is unacceptable, since the qualities of the material are quickly lost.

Before using a silicate solution, it is necessary to examine it for the presence of impurities and additives. The composition must be homogeneous, without foreign inclusions or lumps. The product can be stored in its pure form for a relatively long time in a tightly closed container. The temperature for using liquid glass ranges from 5 to 40 °C. Storage is permissible even at temperatures as low as -30 °C, since frost resistance is one of the many positive qualities of the material.

The recommendations given are of a general nature; below we will consider specific cases of using liquid glass for waterproofing. For example, to use the product on a foundation, its surface is cleaned with sandpaper, the solution is applied with a roller in 2, and if desired, in 3 layers with an interval of 30 minutes.

The use of liquid glass for waterproofing swimming pools

A swimming pool is considered a rather complex construction project, which must cope with significant loads, in particular, withstand a large thickness of water, preventing it from flowing out of the bowl. Without waterproofing measures, water will have the opposite effect and lead to destruction of the surface.

Waterproofing of swimming pools must be carried out not only inside the bowl, but also outside

Waterproofing a pool with liquid glass is carried out both inside and outside the bowl. Double protection will help avoid a number of negative consequences: inside the structure it will prevent destruction and leakage, and on the outside it will protect the object from the unwanted effects of groundwater. If waterproofing measures are neglected, then under the influence of groundwater that penetrates the pores of the concrete, the reinforcement will be destroyed, which will inevitably lead to deformation of the entire structure. It is liquid glass, forming a film that repels water, that can prevent the appearance of cracks in the walls of the pool.

To waterproof a pool with liquid glass, different technologies for applying the material are used: with a brush, roller, or spraying. It is advisable to cover the outside surface with 3-4 layers. Inside, a two-layer application of the product is sufficient. In this type of work, it is important to adhere to the following rules:

1. Clear the surface of any debris.
2. Make the top of the structure as smooth as possible by sanding. If necessary, re-plaster and grout.
3. Degrease the surface.
4. The presence of tubercles no higher than 1 mm is acceptable.

Helpful advice! In places with high humidity, such as a swimming pool or basement, the mixture is taken in a 1:10 ratio of liquid glass to concrete.

It is convenient to waterproof a pool with liquid glass using the spray method.

If you neglect such basic rules, then after hardening the coating will peel off and crack. In this case, the waterproofing will have to be carried out completely anew with the dismantling of the previous layer.

Do-it-yourself basement waterproofing with liquid glass: stages of work

Coating basements and attics with liquid glass is similar to the process of waterproofing concrete structures. Due to the high degree of protection, it is permissible to apply the material both outside and inside the building. The process itself is quite quick, the service life is quite long, equal to the service life of the premises itself.

The property of liquid glass to penetrate into the smallest pores and cracks guarantees reliable protection against moisture. Despite the water-repellent ability, the hardened layer does not lose vapor permeability. To waterproof the basement with liquid glass indoors, use cement mortar. To prepare 10 liters of the mixture, it is enough to take 1 liter of silicate composition.

To waterproof the basement from the inside with liquid glass, the mixture is prepared according to a different recipe. To do this, take cement, sand and soluble glass in a ratio of 1.5:1.5:4. In this case, the amount of water should not exceed 25% of the total weight of the solution. Work on waterproofing a cellar with liquid glass is carried out in the following sequence:

To waterproof a basement, you need to mix liquid glass, sand and cement in a ratio of 4:1.5:1.5

1. Surface preparation, which includes cleaning from dirt, dust and debris.
2. Processing the workplace with a sandblasting device to expose the pores of the concrete.
3. Wiping the surface with an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride in a ratio of 1:10.
4. To be more confident, you can treat it with an antiseptic, although liquid glass itself has antibacterial properties.
5. Grooving holes, cracks and joints 25 mm deep and 20 mm wide.
6. Creation of a sealed layer on utility lines.
7. Wetting the concrete surface by irrigation.
8. Preparation of waterproofing solution in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
9. Prompt application of the mixture with a spatula or brush.

Area of ​​application of the material

The composition is used for various types of construction work:

• Production of concrete blocks with special technical characteristics: fire resistance, frost resistance, acid resistance.
• Production of plaster with hydrophobic properties.
• Waterproofing when laying the foundation.
• Waterproofing of walls of basements and basements.
• Construction of swimming pools and wells.
• Construction of fireplaces and stoves.

Waterproofing the foundations of buildings is important in the presence of groundwater. However, even in a more favorable area, additional protection from moisture is necessary, which can destroy the foundation Source martand.ru

Waterproofing of plinth and foundation with liquid glass: coating and penetrating technologies

Builders use two main technologies for waterproofing the foundation and plinth with liquid glass. The coating method of hydraulic protection of the foundation is necessary when the use of bitumen solutions is undesirable, for example, in the case of using roll materials made of polymers that are incompatible with petroleum products. The water-protective function of sodium silicate is manifested in its penetration into the pores of the material. Moreover, the protective layer itself is only a few millimeters thick.

Helpful advice! By carrying out the work step by step, you can obtain reliable insulation that will protect the structure not only from moisture, but also from fire.

A solution with liquid glass for waterproofing the foundation and plinth is prepared in small portions

The process itself includes the following steps:

• cleaning and degreasing the surface;
• light brushing to open capillaries on the concrete surface;
• use of the product. To coat concrete, liquid glass is applied using a wide brush;
• after the first layer has dried, perform the second;
• After the solution has completely hardened, roll waterproofing is produced.

Penetrating technology is used mainly for waterproofing joints and seams in block-type plinths. The solution is a mixture of cement diluted with water with the addition of liquid glass, which should not be more than 5% of the total volume. The mixture is prepared in small portions; before this, preparatory work is carried out, including removing seams, joints and other damage, as well as cleaning them. The cracks are grooved, giving them a U-shape.

Soluble glass with concrete is excellent for waterproofing joints and seams

The solution is prepared in this way: liquid glass is diluted with water in a ratio of 1:10 or 1:15. The resulting mixture is poured into dry cement to obtain a thick and plastic mass. Repeated stirring of the solution is unacceptable, since the process of crystal formation will be disrupted, which will lead to loss of adhesive properties.

The use of liquid glass for waterproofing wells

In order to retain water in the well, it is waterproofed. Otherwise, the contents will simply seep through the walls into the soil, as a result of which the tank will lose its purpose. The main thing is to ensure reliable insulation between the rings of the well and to saturate the concrete walls themselves.

Before starting work, you need to make sure that the well is securely fixed, otherwise waterproofing will not save you from seepage. To avoid such undesirable consequences, additional fastening is carried out using durable metal brackets. After the strengthening work is completed, the seams between the rings are tightened. To do this, use a rope made of flax, jute or hemp, coat it with liquid glass and tighten the inter-ring seams.

First, the well is covered with clean liquid glass, and after drying, a concrete solution is applied

After this, general waterproofing of the wells with liquid glass is carried out in two stages. The first involves coating the walls with a clean product, the second involves applying a concrete solution consisting of a cement-sand mixture and sodium silicate in equal parts. It is advisable to carry out work on creating an insulating layer during the construction stages, applying the product to a dry surface until the tank is filled with water. If partial filling does occur, it is recommended to cover the walls not covered with water as much as possible.

Features of waterproofing liquid glass in rooms with high humidity

The method of applying a moisture-protective layer using sodium silicate, as one of the most budget-friendly options, is widely used in various rooms with high humidity. This method is quite often used for priming indoor pools, saunas, showers and bathrooms.

Helpful advice! The maximum content of liquid glass in the cement mortar should be 25%; exceeding this figure will lead to rapid destruction of the concrete.

Waterproofing technology for outdoor pools is not characterized by distinctive properties. The main feature is the use of special solutions made for interior work. For example, the soil solution for swimming pools has a special formula; applying it in a thicker layer ensures a long service life of the water tank.

Objects exposed to high humidity are best treated in two stages

For waterproofing floors, pallets and other surfaces in rooms with high humidity, liquid glass is used in its pure form or as impregnations and additives. Thanks to good penetration into the pores of concrete and wood, the material provides reliable protection against destruction and corrosion.

Liquid glass for bathroom waterproofing was previously used quite widely, due to the low cost of the material and ease of application. The main disadvantage is its poor wear resistance due to constant exposure to moisture. Currently, manufacturers have come up with many alternatives to the classic material. At the same time, sodium silicate is an indispensable tool for waterproofing sewer pipes, filling joints in concrete floors of bathrooms and homemade trays in showers.

Methods of applying material

When working with liquid materials, it is necessary to use means of physical protection for the worker, for which they use protective suits and protective masks. Contact of the solution with the eyes can cause significant harm to health.

It is recommended to apply liquid glass with your own hands using a roller or brush. The final rise of the solution occurs within about half an hour, then the next layer is applied.

Repair mortars containing cement are applied with a spatula, but when performing work, one must not forget about the immediate setting of the mixture (usually within half an hour), so the volume of a single batch must be accurately calculated.

Waterproofing with liquid glass

Waterproofing mixtures using JS make it possible to treat any structures, including concrete and wood, in established areas with humidity exceeding the norm.

Foundation

To protect the foundation from destruction in a humid environment, it is necessary to apply liquid glass for concrete. The instructions for use indicate that for maximum protection this operation should be performed twice. After application, the layer must dry completely, then apply the next one. After the concrete base is impregnated with glass, the insulation is reinforced with other technical materials.

To eliminate cracks and mask the joining seams, prepare a repair composition in the following ratio: cement - 1 kg, water 750 ml, ZhS - 50 grams. To ensure better protection of the concrete base, it is recommended to use ZhS in the form of an additive in a volume of 5% of the total mass of the mixture.

swimming pool

To eliminate leaks in the bathtub of a structure, it is necessary to treat the surface of the concrete. The solution is evenly applied to the walls and floor of the structure. After one layer has dried, apply the next one. To reliably protect the structure, it is recommended to impregnate it three times.

From exposure to groundwater

Special concrete, which contains LC, can limit the flow of groundwater.

Basement

This important structure in the house and protecting it from leaks is the main condition for maintaining a favorable climate in the apartment and in the interior. Typically, owners are faced with the problem of cracks and poor waterproofing of joints. To get rid of the problem you will need:

1. Clean cracks and seams from foreign objects and dust;
2. Prepare a repair mixture in the following ratio: cement – ​​20 parts, liquid glass – 1 part. Maximum plasticity of the mixture should be achieved, for which its consistency is controlled by the volume of water;
3. Cracks are sealed with a repair compound;
4. Level the repair site by plastering it with the same mixture;
5. The repair area is coated with water using a brush;
6. After 24 hours, a layer of GS is applied.

When performing waterproofing work, it is necessary to remember the chemical reactions that occur with mixtures in which liquid iron is present. Due to the rapid hardening of the solution, in order to save material, it is recommended to prepare small volumes for work.

The cost of liquid glass for waterproofing: recommendations for purchasing the material

The affordable price of liquid glass for waterproofing is the main advantage of this universal product. Other synthetic impregnations and insulators, including the latest generation, are several times more expensive. The price of the material depends on components such as density, modulus and volume of purchased goods. It is recommended to buy the solution in special containers, and not by weight. Tightly closing production containers prevent premature drying of the product. You can purchase the solution at any construction supermarket or hardware store.

The average cost of soluble glass is $2 per 10 liters

The cost of waterproofing material depends in some way on the choice of the manufacturer. The range is quite wide, but there is practically no difference in the composition of the product, since it is manufactured in accordance with GOST 13078-81. Therefore, the choice of brand is up to the buyer. The average price of liquid glass for concrete waterproofing per 10 liters is about $2. Thus, the multifunctional material is low in cost.

The purchase price also depends on the volumes of the product purchased. As with most building materials, buying in bulk will cost much less. Special high-density liquid glass, which is used for waterproofing swimming pools, has a more significant cost.

Helpful advice! Carrying out the work yourself will help you save on waterproofing, but this will require some skill in applying the solution, which sets very quickly.

What is the material

Silicate glue or, as it is otherwise called, liquid glass is an aqueous solution of silicate salts. Depending on the main component there are:

sodium liquid glass, characterized by a high degree of adhesiveness, fire resistance, antiseptic and waterproofing properties; potassium glass, which is immune to atmospheric influences and acid attack.

Soda glass is used to accelerate the hardening process of cement mixtures due to the chemical reaction that occurs.

Liquid glass has become widespread as a construction and finishing material due to its properties:

Hydrophobic (water-repellent). Thanks to this property, liquid glass is used to treat surfaces exposed to prolonged contact with liquid, including wood products.

As a result of impregnation, they will not be subject to swelling and deformation. Antiseptic. This property allows the use of silicate glue for protective impregnation of walls against such negative manifestations as mold and mildew. Fireproof. When floors and walls are impregnated with liquid glass, the fire safety of the room increases. Antistatic.

The material eliminates electrification and does not provoke the occurrence of static electricity. Acid-resistant. Impregnation with a silicate solution allows you to protect the surface from the effects of chemicals. Eco-friendly. This material does not emit substances harmful to the human body.

How to work with liquid glass for waterproofing: general application recommendations

In various types of waterproofing work, one of the important conditions is surface preparation. The reliability of the coating depends on thorough cleaning of the workplace from dirt, dust and grease. Otherwise, the adhesive properties of liquid glass and the absorbency of the base will be reduced.

The mixture with liquid glass must be applied to a clean, prepared surface.

Despite the rapid hardening of the mixture, it is recommended to allow approximately 24 hours for the solution to dry completely. When layer coating, be sure to allow time for setting when applying each layer. The product in its pure form or in combination with water is applied like paint, using a wide brush or roller. When working with cement mortar, use a plaster spatula.

The choice between the type of liquid glass, which can be sodium or potassium, depends on the range of intended work. Potassium silicate is used to create and fill foundations because it has a more viscous material structure. For waterproofing work, the sodium version is more acceptable.

Sodium-based liquid glass is cheaper, but potassium silicate has higher waterproofing characteristics and can serve as an independent coating. On top of the sodium solution, you will need to apply another layer of waterproofing. This is, as a rule, a traditional pool finish with polypropylene, mosaic, PVC coating or ceramic tiles.

How to use glass

How to use glass:

• First, an insulating composition is made by combining glass with cement mortar in a ratio of 1:10.
• The finished composition is used for insulation work in sanitary departments, reservoirs, wells, etc. It can also be used for insulation work with a protective system against ground moisture ingress, by impregnating reinforced concrete parts with the prepared mixture. Do not forget that the mixture sets and hardens quickly, depending on the ambient temperature, the setting period is 1-30 minutes.
• Treatment with a liquid glass composition is carried out in the same way as silicatization. This type of protection allows you to increase the service life of the building many times over. The work itself is not labor-intensive and does not require a lot of effort and money.

Liquid glass for waterproofing: useful tips and safety rules

To use liquid glass more effectively, experienced builders have developed a number of useful tips that should not be neglected:

It is necessary to apply liquid glass with gloves and closed clothing so that the substance does not get on the skin

• liquid glass cannot be used for waterproofing brick surfaces, since the quickly hardening mixture can lead to destruction of the brick base;
• It is necessary to prepare and apply the composition in small portions, since liquid glass sets very quickly;
• in preparing a solution, important conditions are compliance with the proportions and consistency in mixing the components, otherwise this product will simply lose all its properties;
• Sodium-based liquid glass has higher adhesion and combines well with mineral materials, while potassium liquid glass can be used in highly acidic environments.

Thus, liquid glass is actually an irreplaceable and truly universal means for waterproofing. By using it in the correct proportions with other materials and using a minimum dosage, you can obtain high-quality and durable waterproofing. The solution can be used on various surfaces and objects. Simplicity and ease of use make it possible to do the work yourself.

Hardening

Remember that curing time is inversely proportional to the percentage of silicates. The time for complete drying and the beginning of setting depends on how many of them are introduced. Let's look at specific examples:

• A cement composition with a 2% additive content dries completely within 24 hours and begins to set after 40 minutes.
• By increasing the percentage of silicate to 10%, the drying time is reduced to 4 hours with a corresponding reduction in the onset of setting to 5 minutes.

Time intervals are given for concrete grade M400. Please note that, despite the recommendations of dubious sources advising supplementation of about 25%, this should not be done. Such an array crumbles within a day, and the work has to be done again.