Hydro Guard easily protects split-face cement block from water

LOCATION: MOONACHIE, NEW JERSEY
DATE: Sep 20, 2021
SUBSTRATE: SPLIT-FACE CEMENT BLOCK
PRODUCT USED: Hydro Guard
APPLICATION METHOD: PUMP SPRAYER
SITE DESCRIPTION: COMMERCIAL BUILDING FAÇADE

SPLIT-FACE CEMENT BLOCK IS ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT SUBSTRATES TO PROTECT FROM WATER INGRESS AND DAMAGE. HYDRO GUARD IS A SIMPLE COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION!

Avoid waterproofing membranes, sealants and coatings that can affect the final aesthetic of your building façade and choose Hydro Guard!

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HYDRO GUARD

WHY IS SPLIT-FACE BLCOK SO DIFFICULT TO PROTECT FROM WATER?

Split-face cement blocks have an appealing textured surface, created by chiseling the block after its cast.

This finishing process creates irregularities in the surface, with crevices and recesses. It also exposes the stone’s inner aggregate, which is more absorptive and porous than the outer layer of the block. This creates around 17% more surface than a flat block.

Irregular edges in split-face block also makes it difficult to ensure complete mortar coverage during construction, which means there are potential weak points and gaps in the mortar joints that can allow water ingress.

At R&R Scaffolding’s offices in New Jersey, Hydro Guard was chosen as a protectant specifically for the split-face block façade.

Unlike membranes, and sealants, Hydro Guard dries clear, protects the stone & mortar surfaces, and keeps both 98% breathable!

HYDRO GUARD PROTECTED

UNTREATED SPLIT-FACE BLOCK W/ WATER

HOW CAN WATER DAMAGE SPLIT-FACE BLOCK BUILDING FAÇADES?

Water is the source of most façade damage, and when a freeze/thaw cycle applies, it can be even worse.

Split-face block is susceptible to water damage, just based on its uneven surface properties. Water can carry dirt and pollutants as well, causing the surface to discolor and stain. The uneven texture of split-face block also makes it difficult to clean and remove these stains effectively.

Water infiltration can also accelerate the deterioration of mortar joints, causing mortar to crack or separate from the blocks, creating a risk for more water ingress, all the way from the exterior to the interior of the building.

This was the problem R&R Scaffolding was facing. An inch-by-inch search for leak points was not cost-effective, so they chose Armus Hydro Guard, which applied easily over the stone and mortar surfaces, created a hydrophobic barrier, and protected both materials from further water damage and ingress.