Liquid glass for waterproofing - what you need to know for successful construction? Liquid glass for waterproofing: reliable protection against moisture Liquid glass for waterproofing.

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Liquid glass is a silicate material based on potassium or sodium, which has high waterproofing and water-repellent properties. It differs from ordinary glass in its ability to go into a liquid state under the influence of certain factors.

Material advantages

The material has gained great popularity due to a number of advantages, including:

High degree of adhesion. Thanks to its fluid consistency, it penetrates into the smallest cracks and pores, filling the necessary space. Liquid glass easily adheres to surfaces, creating a reliable base.
Waterproof. Thanks to the film that the silicate material creates, the waterproofing layer is even, integral and water-repellent.
economy. It is consumed in minimal quantities, especially in combination with cement mortar.
Affordable price. In terms of properties, it is not inferior to expensive waterproofing materials, acting as a cheaper alternative.
Long service life. Subject to conscientious performance of insulating work, the surface of liquid glass will last up to 5 years. You can increase this period if you cover the finished layer with paint.

Attention! Liquid glass for waterproofing allows you to work even in conditions of high humidity.

Popular materials

In fact, liquid glass is a silicate adhesive, but manufacturers also produce compositions according to individual criteria for each customer. Popular brands include:

Sodium composition "Optimist". Russian-made product, which is produced in polymer containers of 1.5 kg. It is used for carrying out a waterproofing outside and in rooms. With it, you can process pools, basements, foundations, bathtubs, plinths and walkways. It binds well with the components of concrete, cement, lime, whitewash mixtures, and is also used as part of silicate putties.
Silicate glue "Liquid glass". Material of Ukrainian production, which is supplied in containers of different volumes - from 1.2 to 50 liters. Suitable for bonding materials made of glass, porcelain, cardboard, for creating fire-resistant and acid-resistant water-repellent mixtures used for insulating foundations. Liquid glass of this brand can be impregnated with building materials and wood to give fire resistance and additional density.
Silane Guard. Sodium waterproofing from the Japanese company Wilsson, designed for car body treatment. Creates a durable water-repellent effect, while the surface acquires shine and rich color for up to 12 months. The composition is completely ready for use and does not require special skills for application.

Scope of application and types of material

Liquid glass in construction is often used as a component of mixtures intended for waterproofing various surfaces.

Combination with cement- for preparation (priming) of walls, ceiling and floor for painting. At the first stage, the cement is diluted with water, and then poured into liquid glass in a ratio of 1 to 1.
Together with sand and cement- for carrying out waterproofing works of any complexity. All ingredients are taken in equal proportions.
Combination with cement and sand- as a refractory composition for laying stoves and fireplaces. First, three parts of the sifted sand are mixed with one part of cement, and then 1/5 of the liquid glass is added.
Water solution. A liter of water is mixed with 400 g of liquid glass, the resulting mixture is treated with a surface three times, each time leaving a layer to dry completely. This will impregnate the building material, give it additional density, water resistance and durability.
concentrated aqueous solution. Silicate, dissolved in pure water 50/50, is treated with surfaces made of wood, stone, concrete, cement. The composition has antiseptic and antifungal properties.

Other types of work:

laying linoleum and PVC tiles;
coating of water pipes made of cast iron;
strengthening of weak soils;
waterproofing of artificial reservoirs, pools, wells, wells;
gluing products made of paper, cardboard, plywood, wood, glass at home;
repair of aquariums;
production of paints and varnishes on a silicate basis;
anti-corrosion treatment;
impregnation of fabrics and curtains to give fire resistance.

Mixtures based on liquid glass quickly solidify, forming a film, so all waterproofing work must be carried out quickly.

There are not many types of mixtures. The differences are in the form of a component that is used in conjunction with silicate:

sodium- the most popular variety, resistant to acids, gives the processed materials fire resistance and water-repellent properties;
potassium- has a high adhesiveness, is widely used for waterproofing the foundation, does not add shine to the surface, therefore it is recommended for painting work.

There is lithium liquid glass, but this variety is rare and is used mainly for electrode coatings.

Surface preparation

Waterproofing with liquid glass is carried out only after careful preparation of the surfaces, otherwise it will not be possible to achieve good adhesion of the materials.

On the area intended for processing, it is necessary to remove all third-party elements - nails, bolts, screws.

If waterproofing of water tanks is carried out, the walls and bottom should be thoroughly rinsed so that all defects become more noticeable.

Walls and floors in rooms with a high degree of humidity will need to be degreased and treated with an antiseptic, otherwise the building will not be insured against mold. Wooden surfaces, for example in baths, saunas, log cabins, are impregnated with flame retardants, giving the wood fire-resistant qualities.

How to apply liquid glass

Waterproofing of bathrooms, basements, wells, pools is recommended to be carried out by combining liquid glass and cement in a ratio of 1 to 10. The resulting mixture is applied with a brush, roller or spray gun in two layers - after applying the first layer, you must wait about 30 minutes to dry. When the second layer dries, the surface is covered with cement mixed with liquid glass in a ratio of 1 to 1. If it is planned to tile the area, immediately after the second layer has dried, you can start laying tiles.

Impregnation of the walls of a well or pool is carried out immediately from two sides - internal and external. This will protect the tank from groundwater, which can get inside through microcracks.

The waterproofing of the foundation concrete is ensured in a combined way: first, a mixture of waterproofing and cement is applied to the surface, and then the treated area is pasted over with rolled materials.

If joints, cracks and masonry joints are to be sealed, add liquid glass to the cement mortar - approximately 5% of the total volume of the cement mixture.

Liquid glass is not used to treat brick surfaces due to the high probability of their destruction.

Beginners can take on board some tips for working with liquid waterproofing, prepared by experienced craftsmen.

Facades of buildings that are planned to be painted with oil paint are not treated with liquid glass. Oil solutions have poor adhesion with silicates, so the decorative layer will not stick.
For waterproofing the foundation, it is preferable to use a potassium mixture, due to its higher viscosity. In other cases, the choice of material does not matter.
When applying the silicate mixture, special attention should be paid to joints, seams, corners, problem areas with the slightest defects.
If cast-iron pipes are processed with silicate, then the pipeline cannot be disassembled - the system will have to be dismantled.
To impregnate the surface to a depth of 2-3 mm, you can use an airbrush. For deeper impregnation, it is recommended to apply the silicate mixture not in two, but in three layers.
Waterproofing should be carried out only on dried surfaces, this is especially important for wells and pools.
The material can be used in gardening - they smear small damage on the trunks of trees or shrubs. Liquid glass will help protect the plant from pests and bacteria.
The prepared silicate mixture should not contain foreign particles, clods and dirt, otherwise it will not be possible to obtain a flat surface.
The sand solution should be prepared from sifted fine-grained sand - this way the layer will turn out to be more even and smooth.
The consumption of an aqueous solution is 300 ml per 1 square meter of surface.
All work should be carried out in special protective clothing and gloves.

Mixtures based on liquid glass are a proven and economical option for waterproofing surfaces. Liquid glass improves the quality characteristics of most building materials, provides thermal insulation, waterproofing and at the same time serves as a reliable antiseptic.

Liquid glass processing of concrete and wood products has been used for a long time. This substance is added to cement, which allows you to speed up the process of rising the mixture, it is used for waterproofing basements, for treating swimming pools and other hydraulic structures. Liquid glass in its original state resembles transparent or whitish crystals obtained by melting soda and silicon dioxide in certain proportions under pressure. This material was invented in the 19th century and is currently actively used in construction and repair work, due to its unique properties.

To perform construction work, the crystals are diluted with water, but most often the material is supplied in industrial packaging. Once exposed to open air, ZhS dries up instantly, forming a protective film, which allows it to be used for impregnation of products and structures in order to provide protection against moisture, fire and decay.

Kinds

There are several types of liquid glass. They are subdivided depending on the main substance used in the mixture.

sodium

Education based on sodium salts is characterized by a viscous structure, high strength and penetrating power. It perfectly resists open fire, high temperatures, and the composition is also able to retain its shape even when the base on which it was applied is deformed.

potassium

This material contains potassium salts in its composition. The structure of the mixture is loose, the composition has an increased hygroscopicity, forms a matte surface. Potassium compounds resist excessive heat and deformation well.

Lithium

It is applied to giving to the processed surface of protection against thermal influence. Produced in small batches. For some works, combined mixtures are used.

Compound

Glass is produced by mixing fine-grained silicon raw materials and sodium hydroxide under pressure using high temperatures, or by dissolving sand in an alkaline medium. Potassium silicate and fine sand are also used for production.

Despite the long life of this material, nothing new has been introduced into the manufacturing process over the years.

Characteristics

ZhS is a material of viscous, viscous consistency, which dries quickly in air and forms a monolithic, durable, water-resistant base.

Liquid glass, sodium and potassium, have the following characteristics:

Does not allow penetration of water through the surface processed by solution.
Protects wooden and concrete surfaces from the penetration of fungus and pathogens.
Prevents the accumulation of static electricity.
Protects the treated surface from fire.
Protects the base impregnated with a solution from the effects of acidic compounds.
Contributes to the acceleration of the drying process and curing of cement mortars.

Advantages and disadvantages

When working with ZhS in construction or during repairs, the following advantages are revealed:

this material helps to quickly eliminate small cracks in concrete products and building structures made of wood;
coating with liquid glass makes it possible to obtain a durable film that helps to waterproof any surfaces;
material consumption is low, while the cost of liquid glass is available to most categories of the population, so it can be used for work at home;
with the correct use of ZhS, the service life of the coating will be at least five years;
liquid glass for waterproofing can be used in places with an unstable degree of humidity.

There are also negative features of the LS. The disadvantages include:

this material is not used for processing brick buildings;
ZhS cannot be the only material for obtaining reliable waterproofing; it is usually used together with other materials;
for the processing of structures and products of ZhS, it is desirable to have certain skills, since such solutions instantly dry and harden;
to obtain a better coating and protect the base, it is necessary to apply a primer before the ZhS.

Applications of liquid glass

ZhS is involved in general construction work and for solving problems of the domestic order. It is usually used to provide the following types of work:

in order to ensure waterproofing of pools, concrete screeds, foundations, basements, sewer pipes and wells;
to enhance the refractory properties of mortars for laying furnaces;
in order to protect products made of concrete and wood from the processes of decay and mold formation;
used as an additive in coloring compositions to obtain increased strength and refractory characteristics;
for sticking PVC boards and linoleum;
for clogging the open pores of damaged trees;
in order to restore glass, wood and plastic products;
for processing the car body;
for the organization of self-leveling floors.

Preparation of solutions with liquid glass

It is advisable to purchase ready-made impregnations and mixtures that are designed for specific tasks, but self-mixing of the components will be cheaper, so often the necessary solutions are prepared at the construction site.

Proportions

To prepare a special solution using this substance for various purposes, certain proportions must be observed. How much to add each substance to a particular solution depends on the scope of the mixture.

Compositions for coloring

The peculiarity of the impact of silicate compounds on pigments limits the number of color options. For the preparation of paints, potassium silicate is used, which, unlike sodium silicate, allows you to get a more uniform mixture.

Similar formulations are sold ready-made (you only need to mix the two components).

Compositions for priming

To obtain a high-quality primer for concrete, you need to combine cement and glass in a ratio of 1 to 1, which can significantly strengthen the base. If the surface of the screed is planned to be covered with tiles, the solution is made lighter.

Surface impregnation

To increase the service life of structures and individual products, an aqueous solution of liquid glass is used in a ratio of 1:5. Apply impregnation with a brush, roller or spray gun. Individual small elements can be completely immersed in the finished solution.

Composition for waterproofing

To protect concrete surfaces from moisture, a solution is prepared from equal parts of sand, cement and glass. Water is added until a plastic consistency is obtained. This mixture can be used for processing hydraulic structures.

Composition for fire protection

Strengthening the LS of the masonry mortar helps to increase the effect of fire protection. The recommended composition of the masonry mortar: cement and sand 1:3, water is added until a plastic formation is formed, glass - 20% of the total mass of the mixture. ZhS is added after preparation of the CPR.

Antiseptic composition

To avoid damage to structures by mold, fungi and decay, it is recommended to treat the surfaces with an impregnation consisting of equal parts of water and LS. Both reinforced concrete and wooden structures are treated with this impregnation.

Repair composition

To eliminate cracks, seal joints between slabs and when pouring a screed, you must combine the following ingredients: 1 part ZhS, 1 cement and 3 parts sand. The mixture must be prepared to a sufficiently thick consistency so that it does not drain from the cracks during the work.

Mixing instructions

To properly prepare a mixture with the addition of ZhS, one should follow the recommendations developed for the compositions used to perform certain types of surface treatment and repair.

Mixing of the dry components of the solution is carried out separately, and the liquid is also separately diluted with water. Add dry ingredients to the aqueous solution gradually, mixing the layers. If you want to make the mixture more plastic, increase the volume of water.

The subsequent application of liquid glass to the treated areas should be carried out taking into account the technology of finishing work.

Material application methods

In the production of work with LS, it is necessary to use the means of physical protection of the worker, for which they use protective suits and protective masks. Contact with the solution in the eyes can cause significant harm to health.

Repair mortars containing cement are applied with a spatula, but when performing work, one should not forget about the instant setting of the mixture (usually within half an hour), so it is necessary to accurately calculate the volume of a single batch.

Waterproofing with liquid glass

Waterproofing mixtures with the use of ZhS allow the processing of any structures of their concrete and wood, 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 carried out twice. After application, the layer must dry completely, then the next one is applied. After impregnating the concrete base with glass, the insulation is reinforced with other technical materials.

To eliminate cracks and mask the joints, a repair compound is prepared in the 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 the amount of 5% of the total mass of the mixture.

Basin

To eliminate leaks in the bathtub of the structure, it is necessary to treat the surface of the ZhS for concrete. The solution evenly treats the walls and floor of the structure. After drying one layer, apply the next. For reliable protection of the structure, it is recommended to impregnate three times.

From the impact of groundwater

Special concrete, which includes ZhS, can limit the flow of groundwater.

basement

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

Clean cracks and seams from foreign objects and dust;
Prepare a repair mixture in the ratio: cement - 20 hours, liquid glass - 1 hour. It is necessary to achieve maximum plasticity of the mixture, for which its consistency is controlled by the volume of water;
Cracks are sealed with a repair compound;
Level the place of repair by plastering it with the same mixture;
The place of repair is smeared with water using a brush;
After 24 hours, a layer of JS is applied.

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

How to use liquid glass for waterproofing: methods of application

There are various ways to use silicate mortar to make objects water-repellent. It is necessary 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. The main methods of using the product:

coating method;
penetration technique;
adding material to concrete.

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

Helpful advice! Applying a coating layer on 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 it is difficult to reach the surface to be treated. In this case, do not use pure liquid glass, but mix it with water in a ratio of 1: 1 and add one more 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.

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 be more reliable. The mixture is applied with a spatula and covered with a wet cloth to prevent cracking of the coating.

The use of liquid glass for concrete waterproofing

The addition of 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 are the best way to explain why liquid glass is added to concrete. The procedure for preparing the mixture itself is simple. You can do it yourself.

The main thing in this process is the consistency in adding components and observing 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 ready-made mortar will be used. To do this, you must follow these rules:

Soluble glass is not added to the finished cement mortar. First, a dry mixture is prepared, then it is gradually diluted with a stream of liquid glass mixed with water, while thoroughly mixing the solution.
When adding a silicate solution to cement, it is important to strictly follow the instructions that 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).
When adding a silicate-sodium mixture, the concrete mortar quickly hardens. The work is facilitated by adding water or making small portions.
It is not recommended to prepare the mortar in a concrete mixer, as it will begin to harden even during the mixing process.

Liquid glass for waterproofing concrete: the ratio of materials

There are a number of subtleties in mixing a 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.

Attention! In no case should water be added to the finished mixture of concrete and liquid glass after the solution has been kneaded.

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

if there is 2% liquid glass in the solution, then the setting process will begin in about 45 minutes, and complete hardening will occur in 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 at a proportion of 10% will occur after 5 minutes, and complete hardening - after only 4 hours.

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

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

The feasibility of waterproofing with liquid glass at different objects

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:

covering 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 the pool with liquid glass is a less troublesome process compared to the use of other materials for this purpose, which allows you to get an excellent result at low cost;
basement waterproofing using sodium silicate will protect the underground room from the penetration of ground and melt water, and 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;

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

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

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

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

Coating the surface with a mixture using a brush, roller or spatula (if cement is added to the solution with liquid glass).
Applying (if necessary) a second layer after a half-hour interval.
Preparation of a solution for a protective layer, if the waterproofing involves the use of concrete. The components are quickly mixed and applied, preventing the mixture from solidifying.
Reuse or storage of a cement-sand mortar with the addition of liquid glue is unacceptable, as the quality of the material is quickly lost.

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

The above recommendations are of a general nature, below we will consider specific cases of the use of liquid glass for waterproofing. For example, to use the product on the 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 pools

The pool is considered to be a rather complex construction object, 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 the destruction of the surface.

The waterproofing of the pool with liquid glass is carried out both inside the bowl and outside it. Double protection will help to 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 undesirable effects of groundwater. If waterproofing measures are neglected, then under the influence of groundwater that penetrates into the pores of concrete, 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 cracks in the walls of the pool.

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

Clean the surface of any debris.
Make the upper part of the structure as smooth as possible by stripping. If necessary, re-plaster and grout.
Degrease the surface.
The presence of tubercles is not higher than 1 mm.

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

If you neglect such elementary 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

Covering cellars and attics with liquid glass is similar to the process of waterproofing concrete structures. Due to the high degree of protection, the material can be applied both outside the building and inside it. The process itself is quite operational, the service life is quite long, equal to the useful 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 frozen layer does not lose vapor permeability. For waterproofing the basement with liquid glass indoors, cement mortar is used. To prepare 10 liters of the mixture, it is enough to take 1 liter of the 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 the cellar with liquid glass is carried out in the following sequence:

Surface preparation, which includes cleaning from dirt, dust and debris.
Treatment of the workplace with a sandblaster to expose the pores of concrete.
Rubbing the surface with an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride in a ratio of 1:10.
For greater certainty, you can treat it with an antiseptic, although liquid glass itself has antibacterial properties.
Punching holes, cracks and joints 25 mm deep and 20 mm wide.
Creation of a hermetic layer on engineering communications.
Wetting the concrete surface by irrigation.
Preparation of waterproofing mortar in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Rapid application of the mixture with a spatula or brush.

Waterproofing with liquid glass of the basement and foundation: coating and penetrating technologies

Builders use two main technologies for waterproofing the foundation and basement with liquid glass. The coating method for waterproofing the foundation is necessary when the use of bituminous solutions is undesirable, for example, in the case of the use of polymer roll materials that are incompatible with petroleum products. The water-protective function of sodium silicate is manifested in its penetration into the pores of the material. At the same time, the protective layer itself is only a few millimeters thick.

Helpful advice! With the phased implementation of work, you can get reliable insulation that will protect the structure not only from moisture, but also from fire.

The process itself includes the following steps:

surface cleaning and degreasing;
light brushing to open capillaries on the concrete surface;
use of the tool. To cover concrete, liquid glass is applied with a wide brush;
after the first layer has dried, the second layer is performed;
after the solution has completely hardened, roll waterproofing is produced.

Penetrating technology is mainly used for waterproofing joints and seams in a block-type basement. The solution is a mixture of cement diluted with water with the addition of liquid glass, which should be no more than 5% of the total volume. The mixture is prepared in small portions, before that, preparatory work is carried out, including jointing, joints and other damage, as well as their cleaning. Cracks are strobed, giving them a U-shape.

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 mixing of the solution is unacceptable, as the process of crystal formation will be disrupted, which will lead to a 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 provide reliable insulation between the rings of the well and soak the concrete walls themselves.

Before starting work, you must make sure that the well is securely fixed, otherwise the waterproofing will not save you from seepage. To avoid such undesirable consequences, additional fastening is carried out using durable metal brackets. After carrying out the strengthening work, 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.

After that, the general waterproofing of the wells with liquid glass is carried out in two stages. The first involves coating the walls with a clean agent, the second involves applying a concrete mortar consisting of a cement-sand mixture and sodium silicate in equal parts. It is desirable to carry out work on the creation of an insulating layer even at the construction stages, applying the product to a dry surface until the tank is filled with water. If partial filling nevertheless occurred, then it is recommended to cover the walls that are not covered by water as much as possible.

Features of waterproofing with liquid glass in rooms with high humidity

The method of applying a moisture-proof layer using sodium silicate as one of the most budget 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 indicator will lead to the rapid destruction of concrete.

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

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. Due to good penetration into the pores of concrete and wood, the material provides reliable protection against destruction and corrosion.

Liquid glass for waterproofing the bathroom used to be used quite widely, due to the cheapness 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, it is sodium silicate that is an indispensable tool for waterproofing sewer pipes, pouring joints in concrete floors of bathrooms and makeshift shower trays.

The affordable price of liquid glass for waterproofing is the main advantage of a universal remedy. 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 index and the volume of goods purchased. It is recommended to buy the solution in special containers, and not by weight. Tightly closed production containers do not allow premature drying of the product. You can buy a solution at any building supermarket or hardware store.

The cost of waterproofing material in a certain way depends 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 made in accordance with GOST 13078-81. Therefore, the choice of brand is up to the buyer. The average price of liquid glass for waterproofing concrete for 10 liters is about $ 2. Thus, the multifunctional material is characterized by low cost.

The purchase price also depends on the amount of funds purchased. As with most building materials, buying in bulk is much cheaper. A special high-density liquid glass, which is used for waterproofing pools, has a more significant cost.

Helpful advice! Independent work will help to save on waterproofing, but this will require some skill in applying a solution that sets very quickly.

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

In various types of waterproofing works, one of the important conditions is surface preparation. The reliability of the coating depends on the 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.

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

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 pour the foundation, since it has a more viscous material structure. In waterproofing works, 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, another layer of waterproofing will be required. This is usually the traditional finish of the pool with polypropylene, mosaic, PVC coating or ceramic tiles.

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

liquid glass cannot be used for waterproofing brick surfaces, since a rapidly hardening mixture can lead to the destruction of the brick base;
it is necessary to prepare and apply the composition in small portions, since liquid glass sets very quickly;
in the preparation of the solution, important conditions are the observance of proportions and consistency in mixing the components, otherwise this agent will simply lose all its properties;
sodium-based water glass has higher adhesion and excellent bonding with mineral materials, and potassium water glass can be used in an environment with high acidity.

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

Moisture adversely affects many materials, leading to their destruction or loss of an attractive appearance. Therefore, special materials are used that will block the effect of a liquid medium on sensitive elements. Liquid glass for waterproofing is a fairly common material, as it has good properties and is inexpensive. Even a beginner can work with this type of insulation, because the essence of the process is simple and understandable for everyone.

Features of waterproofing

People often have a question, how to make waterproofing with liquid glass? Almost everyone knows what kind of material it is, what its chemical composition is and how it should be handled during storage. But direct work can be difficult. In the absence of clear knowledge, it is better not to try to improvise and think that you can figure it out on the go.

You should definitely ask for advice from professionals or at least read the thematic forum in order to understand the approximate actions and their sequence. If the procedure is carried out incorrectly, then it can only harm, and not bring any benefit, so knowledge is necessary.

Any master will say that there are two answers to the question of how to use liquid glass for waterproofing: in its pure form or simply add it to the solution. Both methods are good, so here everyone decides how it will be more convenient for him. In the first case, it will be necessary to wait for the completion of all work and the complete drying of the screed and plaster. Only then can isolation be started.

If all the water does not have time to evaporate from the solution, then a situation will arise when it will be locked under an insulating layer and will carry its destructive effect from the inside. This cannot be allowed, because it will be impossible to correct the oversight. It is better to wait a couple of extra days than to rush and end up with a completely opposite result from the intended one.

Work performance technology

The main technology of waterproofing with liquid glass involves a certain sequence of actions, each of which plays an important role:

. The surface to be treated must be free of any debris and dust. It is advisable to immediately make it perfectly even, since then it will be extremely difficult to achieve this. Small cracks are allowed, but large cracks need to be sealed, because filling them will require too much material.
. Further, the prepared surface is simply treated evenly with the material, trying to make the same layer everywhere. It dries pretty quickly, but it’s better to wait at least a day for everything to freeze and fix in place.

Sometimes cement waterproofing is used in practice. This operation implies that the material will be added directly to the solution, and the isolation will take place immediately from the inside. To achieve maximum efficiency from this method, you need to thoroughly mix the solution so that all components are present in each portion in equal proportions.

Scope of liquid glass

The use of waterproofing material covers almost all technological needs that may arise during construction:

. Waterproofing of concrete with liquid glass is used in internal and external works. After processing, the material will become completely insensitive to moisture and can be operated without problems even under water.
. Liquid glass for pool waterproofing is a very good solution, because it can be used to achieve excellent results at low cost. It will be much more difficult to work with a special film, and you will have to tinker with the joints. Glass does not have these disadvantages.
. Waterproofing the basement with liquid glass from the inside allows you to protect yourself from such an unpleasant event as the appearance of water among your reserves for the winter. In spring, the groundwater level rises sharply, and if there is a river nearby, it will overflow widely, sometimes approaching close to houses. So the protective layer will keep the liquid within its natural boundaries.
. Waterproofing the foundation with liquid glass is also ideal for solving the problem of providing the house with the most comfortable conditions. After processing, the base of the building will not allow liquid and moisture to pass inside.
. Wall waterproofing with liquid glass is rarely used, since moisture rarely seeps through the side passages. But if necessary, this procedure is also possible, it will only be necessary to purchase a sufficient amount of material.
. Liquid glass for waterproofing the well is applied in two layers. The first will simply be applied to the walls in its pure form, and the second will lie on top of it as part of the cement mortar. This is how you get the maximum effect.
. Liquid glass for floor waterproofing is well suited because, thanks to its chemical structure, it allows you to fill even the smallest cracks.

As you can see from the list, the material is indeed universal.

How much will it cost to process a house with liquid glass?

If waterproofing is carried out with liquid glass with your own hands, then you will not have to overpay much. The operation does not require complex tools or professional equipment. And it won't last too long.

The price of liquid glass for waterproofing will depend on the selected manufacturer.

Liquid glass is actively used in construction today, this is due to the many positive features of this material, among them:

moisture resistance;
chemical inertness;
fire resistance;
low thermal conductivity;
lack of toxicity.

Why choose liquid glass

Among other things, liquid glass has excellent adhesion to most surfaces. The material has an antiseptic effect and exhibits abrasion resistance during operation. This composition is characterized by anti-corrosion characteristics and even wind resistance.

Waterproofing with liquid glass is most common as the use of the composition as an ingredient. In the pure is used less frequently. During the production process, a mixture of quartz sand is fired with soda and crushed, this allows you to get a product that then dissolves in water.

Foundation waterproofing

To form a reliable barrier against water, the surface is covered with liquid glass in two layers, each of them must dry well. This method is called coating and involves the further laying of waterproofing roll materials. Waterproofing with liquid glass is quite often used when it is necessary to seal joints and cracks in concrete blocks and foundations. At the same time, sodium liquid glass is added to it; water and cement are additionally used for its preparation.

The composition of the waterproofing is used in the amount of 50 g per 1000 g of cement. Approximately 150 g of water should be added for every 10 g of glass. The mixture should be prepared in a small amount in order to use it up in a short time, because it solidifies quickly enough.

Waterproofing with liquid glass can be carried out on the basis of another technology, which involves adding a mixture to concrete for further pouring the foundation. To do this, prepare the following ingredients:

cement;
liquid glass;
crushed stone;
sand;
water.

Liquid glass is added in the amount of 5% of the total mass. Beforehand, everything should be prepared for pouring the foundation, for this earthworks are carried out, formwork is installed and the reinforcing cage is laid. Sand is mixed with cement, liquid glass is dissolved in water, and then the ingredients are combined and mixed. After adding rubble, you should immediately start pouring the foundation.

Well and pool waterproofing

Waterproofing with liquid glass may involve work in the field of wells and pools. The composition is suitable for external and internal waterproofing. In the latter case, the mixture is applied in several layers to the walls and floor of the pool. First you need to process all the recesses and joints. This approach allows you to achieve excellent sealing.

When carrying out outdoor work, liquid glass acts as a component of concrete and reliably protects the pool from groundwater, ensuring the strength of the base. Waterproofing wells with liquid glass involves the preparation of a mixture of liquid glass, cement and sand, which are combined in equal parts. The resulting solution should be treated joints and seams, and then the rest of the surface. In order to achieve a greater effect, the walls of the well are pre-coated with liquid glass.

Basement waterproofing

Owners of private houses with basements face problems with water entering through the seams into the basement. An excellent solution to this problem is the use of a solution of liquid glass for waterproofing. If the seams are leaking, then at the first stage they must be cleaned of dust and debris. Next, a repair mixture is prepared from liquid glass and Portland cement in a ratio of 1 to 20. Water is added to the composition in such an amount that the consistency of thick sour cream is obtained.

The mixture is placed in the seams and cracks, the surface is smeared with water using a brush. After 24 hours, the treatment must be carried out with liquid glass. If the concrete walls are wet, then they are treated using the same technology, but the layer should be made thicker and denser. It is important to remember that the composition is prepared in small quantities so that it can be used in the shortest possible time.

Additional instructions for using liquid glass

Liquid glass can be applied with a brush or roller. The first layer is left to dry for about 30 minutes. After that, you can proceed to the formation of the next layer. It is important to ensure the uniformity of the coating - there should be no gaps. After that, you can start applying the protective layer. To do this, a cement mortar is prepared, which is used for plastering walls. Once the solution is ready, glass should be added to it and mixed well.

In the next step, the surface is covered with a mixture. Today, the use of liquid glass is quite common, you must definitely study the instructions for applying it. So, the solution, to which glass was used as an additive, does not make sense to re-dilute, since the material loses its properties. The solution is usually applied with a spatula in a fairly thin layer. The last step will be insulation; for this, basalt wool or polystyrene is usually used.