THE CHALLENGE
Parkchester, a large community in the east Bronx, New York City, consists of 171 residential buildings. Recently, several of these buildings experienced water ingress, which was traced to rainwater seeping through the brick and mortar of the rooftop bulkheads. Addressing these leaks became critical as the weather turned rainier, and a timely, effective solution was required to prevent further damage.
The primary challenge for the Parkchester maintenance team was identifying and addressing the leaks in a cost-effective and efficient manner. With the rainy season approaching, they needed a solution that could be implemented quickly and with minimal disruption. While the team initially considered siloxane-based water repellents, they were also interested in exploring more economical alternatives, such as Armus Hydro Guard, which could offer a similar level of protection.
THE SOLUTION
Armus Hydro Guard, a water-borne nano-coating designed to create a water-repellent barrier on porous surfaces, was proposed as a practical alternative to traditional siloxane solutions. Hydro Guard does not require specialized tools for application, making it an accessible and cost-saving option for the maintenance team. Its simple application process involves using a pump sprayer, and it is particularly suited for porous materials like brick and mortar.
Hydro Guard provided Parkchester with a scientifically advanced, cost-effective solution for addressing water ingress in their rooftop bulkheads. As a water-borne nano-coating, it penetrates the porous brick and mortar, forming a hydrophobic barrier that repels liquid water while allowing water vapor to escape, preserving the breathability of the material.
Compared to traditional siloxane-based repellents, Hydro Guard’s nanoparticles penetrate deeper into the substrate, providing longer-lasting protection with fewer reapplications. It also requires minimal labor and no specialized equipment—application is done using a simple pump sprayer. This reduces both material and labor costs, making Hydro Guard more efficient for large-scale maintenance like Parkchester. The quick curing time further optimizes the process, allowing for faster project completion and less downtime.
POST-APPLICATION RESULTS
After allowing 48 hours for the product to cure, the team revisited the treated bulkhead and performed a water-splash test to check the efficacy of the coating. Water beading and immediate water repellency were observed, confirming the effectiveness of Hydro Guard.
Hydro Guard delivered immediate results, providing the Parkchester maintenance team with a fast and cost-effective solution to water ingress. The treatment created a durable water-repellent barrier on the bulkhead’s surface, preventing further rain penetration. The ease of application and the lack of need for specialized equipment or large crews made Hydro Guard an efficient choice for future applications across the community. By reducing the risk of further water damage, Hydro Guard proved to be a valuable asset for protecting the buildings and saving on potential costly repairs.
