Introduction

In the heart of Pakistan's bustling cities from the high rises of Karachi to the infrastructure projects in Lahore and Islamabad concrete structures face a silent, pervasive threat: water. Whether from monsoon rains, groundwater, or internal moisture, water infiltration leads to corrosion, spalling and structural decay. Surface level coatings often fail, as they cannot address the problem from within the concrete matrix. For a roof leakage solution that is both deep and durable, the answer lies in technology that works from the inside out.

Introducing AQUAFIN®-IC, a revolutionary one component crystalline waterproofing slurry. Unlike membrane based systems, it doesn't just coat the surface; it penetrates deep into concrete pores and capillaries, forming permanent crystals that block water pathways. For engineers and waterproofing companies in Pakistan seeking a reliable, long term waterproof coating, AQUAFIN-IC represents a paradigm shift in concrete protection.

Key Features & Technological Advantages

  • ·         Self Healing Crystalline Action: The defining feature. Active chemicals migrate into the concrete, sealing existing hairline cracks and autonomously sealing new cracks up to 0.4 mm that may form later. This provides a lifetime roof leak proofing solution.
  • ·         Applied on Damp Substrates: Unlike most coatings that require bone dry surfaces, AQUAFIN-IC can be applied to matt damp concrete, a significant advantage in Pakistan's humid climate and for repairing existing leaking structures.
  • ·         Withstands High Hydrostatic Pressure: Certified to resist water pressure up to 14 bar (CRD-C 48-92) and negative side pressure up to 1.5 bar, making it ideal for basements, retaining walls and water tanks.
  • ·         Drinking Water Certified: Approved per DVGW W-347 & W-270, making it completely safe for potable water tanks a critical compliance feature for residential and commercial projects.
  • ·         Permanently Active: The crystalline process is ongoing. As long as moisture is present, the crystals can re-activate and grow, offering enduring protection.
  • ·         Chloride Free & Non-Toxic: Ensures the longevity of steel reinforcement and is safe for the environment and applicators.

Primary Applications in the Pakistani Market

AQUAFIN-IC is versatile for a wide range of waterproofing services in Pakistan, particularly where internal or negative side waterproofing is required:

  • ·         Basement Walls & Foundations: The go to solution for preventing groundwater ingress in buildings across Lahore and Islamabad.
  • ·         Potable & Service Water Tanks: The only choice for safe, certified lining of overhead and underground tanks.
  • ·         Swimming Pools & Reservoirs: Provides a robust, crack bridging waterproofing layer.
  • ·         Roof Slabs & Terraces: Applied as a slurry, it provides seamless, root resistant roof waterproofing, especially effective for inverted roof systems.
  • ·         Bridge Decks & Underground Structures: Protects against water and chloride ion penetration, extending structural life.
  • ·         Parking Decks & Industrial Floors: Resists water and chemical penetration from the top side.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Surface Preparation:

  • ·         Concrete must be sound, load bearing and pore open. Remove laitance, dirt and contaminants.
  • ·         Mechanically roughen smooth surfaces to ensure slurry penetration.
  • ·         Pre wet the substrate thoroughly until it is uniformly matt damp (no puddles).

2. Mixing:

  • ·         Add 6.75 - 8.0 liters of clean water per 25 kg bag into a clean container.
  • ·         Add powder while mixing with a drill (500-700 rpm) for ~3 minutes until lump-free.
  • ·         Let the mixture mature for 5 minutes, then remix briefly.

3. Application:

  • ·         Apply a minimum of two coats using a stiff brush or spray equipment.
  • ·         First Coat: Brush vigorously to work slurry into the substrate.
  • ·         Second Coat: Apply while the first coat is still tacky (within 60-minute pot life). Ensure a total consumption as per requirement:

o   Damp Proofing: 0.75 kg/m² (1 layer)

o   Non-Pressure Water: 1.2 kg/m² (2 layers)

o   Standing Water: 1.5 kg/m² (2 layers)

4. Curing & Protection:

  • ·         Protect the applied coating from sun, wind and rain for at least 24 hours.
  • ·         Keep the surface moist by misting with water for at least 3 days to ensure proper crystalline growth.
  • ·         Backfilling or flooding can typically proceed after 7 days.

Why AQUAFIN®-IC is the Superior Choice for Pakistan

For project managers and the best waterproofing companies in Pakistan, specifying AQUAFIN-IC offers strategic benefits:

  • ·         Solves Retrofitting Challenges: Its ability to be applied on the negative side (inside) of leaking structures makes it invaluable for repairing existing basements in older Karachi or Lahore buildings without excavation.
  • ·         Climate Resilient: Performs exceptionally well in Pakistan’s temperature extremes and high humidity, which actually aids the crystalline process.
  • ·         Cost-Effective Over Lifetime: Eliminates the need for replacement membranes, offering a permanent roof seepage solution with minimal future maintenance.
  • ·         Enhances Concrete Durability: By reducing carbonation and blocking chlorides, it significantly extends the service life of concrete structures, a crucial factor for national infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How is AQUAFIN-IC different from a bituminous coating or APP membrane?
Bituminous coatings sit on the surface and can degrade with UV exposure. AQUAFIN-IC becomes a permanent part of the concrete, is self healing and is not susceptible to physical damage or degradation.

Q: Can it be used for a roof waterproofing service on an existing leaking terrace?
Absolutely. It is one of the most effective solutions for repairing leaking terraces. The slurry can be applied directly over the damp concrete, where it will penetrate and seal the leaks from within.

Q: What is the coverage area per bag?
One 25 kg bag covers approximately 16-33 m² for a 2-layer system, depending on the required consumption (1.5 kg/m² for standing water).

Q: Does it require a protective screed or topping?
No. Once cured, it can withstand foot traffic and backfilling. However, for surfaces subject to mechanical wear (like parking decks), a wearing screed is recommended.

Conclusion

In the search for a definitive waterproofing system in Pakistan, AQUAFIN®-IC stands out not as a mere barrier, but as a transformative treatment. It empowers concrete to protect itself, offering a scientifically advanced, durable and maintenance free solution. For structures where failure is not an option be it a water reservoir in Islamabad, a high value basement in Lahore, or a vast terrace in Karachi AQUAFIN-IC provides the assurance of permanent dry integrity.

Call to Action

Ready to build with concrete that protects itself?
Contact Aquafin Pakistan today to request a technical datasheet, schedule a site demonstration, or consult with our engineers on your next project.