What is a water repellent for artificial stone

For your artificial stone surfaces to remain beautiful and long-lasting, water repellents are a must. Because of its versatility and aesthetic appeal, artificial stone is frequently used, but over time, it may become vulnerable to water damage. Water seeping into the stone can cause erosion, staining, and even structural damage. Water repellents can help by acting as a barrier to keep moisture out in this situation.

The integrity and aesthetics of artificial stone surfaces can be preserved by applying a water repellent. These products function by piercing the surface of the stone and forming a barrier that keeps water from seeping in. This guards against potential freeze-thaw damage in colder climates, where water within the stone can freeze and expand, causing cracks, in addition to helping to prevent unsightly stains.

Water repellents come in a variety of formulations, each appropriate for a particular type of artificial stone and setting. Some offer stronger protection and deeper penetration because they are made for stones that are more porous. Others offer a permeable barrier that keeps liquid water out while allowing moisture vapor to escape. The particular requirements and difficulties that your stone surfaces face will determine which product is best for you.

The lifespan of your artificial stone installations can be greatly increased with routine maintenance and water repellent application. It is an easy but effective way to protect your investment and maintain the fresh, vibrant look of your stone for many years to come. Water repellents are essential for preserving the structural integrity and visual appeal of artificial stone, whether they are applied on interior walls, patios, or façades.

Composition and principle of action of a water repellent

A capillary-porous structure is characteristic of all stones (artificial and natural), as a result of which they have the ability to absorb water (which ultimately leads to the formation of cracks and subsequent destruction). To prevent this, a water repellent for stone is used. The composition that protects the surface of the stone from water ingress is a mixture of silanes (silicon compounds with hydrogen), siloxanes (liquids based on organosilicon polymers) and an organic solvent (or water), which "work" at the molecular level. After applying a liquid water repellent to the surface, it penetrates deeply into the pores. The solvent evaporates, and a thin protective polymer film forms on the inner surfaces of the pores, and the pores themselves are not clogged. Thanks to this, the “breathing” characteristics of the house remain virtually unchanged, and the service life of the finishing coating increases significantly.

Organosilicon water repellents with solvent bases, such as isopropyl alcohol, have a strong penetrating power (up to 35 mm). Water-based repellents are applied only to dry surfaces, have a lower penetrating power (up to 10 mm), and are typically supplied in concentrated form. As a result, it is easy to independently achieve the desired consistency by adding the necessary amount of water in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on its composition, the protective coating can have a service life of five to ten years.

Water repellents for artificial stone are crucial in enhancing the durability and longevity of these materials. They work by creating a protective barrier on the surface, preventing water from penetrating and causing damage such as staining, erosion, or freeze-thaw cycles. This protection not only helps maintain the aesthetic appearance of artificial stone but also reduces maintenance costs over time. By repelling water, these treatments safeguard against the growth of mold and mildew, ensuring that the stone remains in optimal condition. Selecting the right water repellent involves understanding the specific needs of the stone and the environmental conditions it will face, making it an essential consideration for builders and homeowners alike.

Advantages

Unquestionably, a water repellent has benefits.

• the material impregnated with this composition acquires water-protective and water-repellent properties;
• it practically does not reduce the air permeability and vapor permeability of the structure;
• the appearance of the material treated with a water repellent does not change;
• increases the resistance of the surface to precipitation (often containing alkalis, acids and other chemically active substances);
• increases corrosion resistance;
• prevents the formation of mold and mildew;
• penetrates into the processed material to a depth of 10 to 35 mm (depending on the composition and porosity of the artificial stone);
• it can be used both outside and inside buildings (that is, it is safe for health);
• can be applied to products made from concrete and gypsum;
• prevents "burnout" from direct sunlight;
• reduces the adhesion of ice to the surface, which reduces the load on the walls of the building;
• prevents surface contamination;
• has a long service life (from 5 to 10 years).

Method of application

Usually, one or two unused stones (or their trimmings) are left over after work is completed. The type of material used to create the artificial stone—cement or gypsum—is taken into consideration when choosing a particular water repellent. Despite the fact that universal compounds exist. Purchase a minimum of one-liter package of water repellent to start. You must perform a trial test on the chosen compound before you begin spraying the water repellent on the entire surface.

Trial testing of the compound

According to the manufacturer"s instructions, apply the solution to a "test" stone. After final drying, you will be able to visually verify whether you are satisfied with the color change (it will definitely be, at least minimal, even when using practically transparent protective mixtures). If you are completely satisfied with the appearance, check the stone covered with the solution for hydrophobicity: to do this, pour plenty of water on it. Drops of moisture should "roll off" the surface of the stone, and not be absorbed. If all the experiments have satisfied you, you can purchase the required amount of water repellent (the consumption is indicated on the packaging) and begin processing all surfaces.

Applying a protective layer to the surface

Crucial! During work, personal protective equipment such as safety glasses and rubber gloves must be worn. Make sure compositions have adequate ventilation when using them indoors.

Despite this, a lot of manufacturers permit hydrophobization to occur at room temperature, which ranges from -20˚Ρ to +30˚Ρ. Experience has shown that when working outside in dry, windless conditions, at a temperature of 8·9˚Ρ and above, the best outcomes are still achievable.

The entire surface needs to be cleaned thoroughly (using specialized detergents if necessary) and dried before the protective composition is applied (though some mixtures can be applied to a wet surface). Using a brush, roller, or spray, evenly apply the composition in several layers (not less than two; the necessary amount is specified in the instructions). Apply the mixture liberally, taking care not to smear it. There is a maximum of 7 to 10 minutes that passes between layers. In other words, the "wet-on-wet" principle is followed when applying the protective mixture. After complete drying, which takes at least a day, the treated surface will acquire water-resistant qualities. It needs to be kept dry and away from moisture during the drying process.

Counseling! If the surface area is large, you will need to mark out multiple sections ahead of time. In this instance, all protective layer application is done gradually to avoid going over the advised gap between water repellent layers.

Types and examples of compositions for water repellency

There are many different types of water repellent available on the construction market right now. They can be separated into three primary groups based on their makeup and objectives.

Water repellents based on an organic solvent

These compositions offer high levels of protection (ten years of warranty) and deep penetration (up to 35 mm). "Tiprom U" (Sazi-group, Russia), "Perel Impregno Prima" (Preel, Russia/Italy), "Tury Antivysol" (Palitra, Russia), "Antipluviol S" (Mapei, Italy), and "Neogard" (Neo, Russia) are water repellents that are used to protect stone.

Water-based water repellents

These compositions have a low level of protection (five to six years’ warranty) and shallow penetration (up to 10 mm). "Tiprom D" (Sazi-group – Russia), "Kemafob Aqua" (Kema – Slovenia), "WeberTec 774" (Saint-Gobain – Germany), "Flexmar PROTECT" (Flexmar – Austria), "Alpha Aqua Si" (Sikkens – Netherlands), and "Gidrolast" (Ilsikon – Russia) are a list of products of this type from both domestic and foreign manufacturers.

Water repellents that change appearance

These combinations intensify the product’s color and produce a "wet stone" appearance. "Tiprom M" (Sazi-group, Russia), "Akemi" (Akemi, Germany), "Ilpa Extra Drops" (Ilpa, Italy), "Sakret VSI" (Sakret, Germany), and "Idea XC" (Bellinzoni, Italy) are the primary manufacturers.

Certain compositions incorporate coloring elements in addition to producing the appearance of "wet stone." "Stone Colour Enhancer" (Faber, Italy) and "Rosa-Color" (Dialectics, Russia) provide comparable solutions.

Counseling! Read the instructions thoroughly before making a purchase of a water repellent. Certain compositions aren’t meant to be used with gypsum products.

The look of DIY gypsum stones is greatly enhanced by solutions that can be used to alter the product’s color.

Artificial stone water repellents are essential to preserving the longevity and beauty of these surfaces. They aid in preventing moisture from penetrating the stone and causing damage over time by creating a barrier of protection. The structural soundness and visual appeal of artificial stone in a variety of contexts, such as garden landscapes and building facades, depend on this protection.

Improving the water resistance of artificial stone can be done easily and affordably by applying a repellent. Common problems like efflorescence, staining, and freeze-thaw damage can be avoided with it. Because of this, it’s a priceless tool for builders and homeowners who want to prolong the life of their stone installations while minimizing maintenance requirements.

The type of artificial stone, the environment it is exposed to, and the particular protection requirements are all important considerations when selecting the appropriate water repellent. Your artificial stone will stay colorful and weatherproof for many years to come if you purchase a high-quality repellent and apply it properly.

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