Stop Water Where It Starts — Inside the Concrete

Every waterproofing contractor in Pakistan knows the same painful truth: coatings fail. Traditional surface-applied systems may deteriorate over time if exposed to UV, movement, or improper installation. And when that first drop of water appears through a ceiling or basement wall, the phone starts ringing.

But what if the waterproofing wasn’t a layer on top? What if it was inside the concrete, growing stronger over time instead of weaker?

AQUAFIN®-IC makes this possible. It is not a coating. It is a crystalline slurry that penetrates deep into concrete and transforms it from a porous sponge into a watertight barrier permanently.

For waterproofing in Pakistan from Karachi’s coastal high-rises to Lahore’s groundwater-challenged basements this is the solution that engineering demands.

The Core Technology: How Crystals Replace Coatings

AQUAFIN®-IC arrives on site as a grey powder in 25 kg bags. You mix it with clean water between 6.75 and 8 liters per bag and apply it with a brush.

But unlike paint that sits on the surface, this material migrates. The active chemicals travel through the natural capillary system of concrete, reacting with moisture and cement byproducts to form insoluble crystalline structures.

These crystals:

· Grow into pores and micro cracks.

· Block every path water might take.

· Remain permanently active.

· Can help seal static hairline cracks up to 0.4 mm in the presence of moisture.

The result? Concrete that protects itself.

Applications Across Pakistan

Basements — The Negative Side Advantage

Most waterproofing must be applied on the outside of a wall. But what if you can’t excavate? AQUAFIN-IC works from the inside stopping water that pushes from outside at pressures up to 1.5 bar.

For Lahore’s residential basements and Karachi’s commercial parking structures, this is a game-changer.

Drinking Water Tanks — Certified Safe

AQUAFIN-IC meets DVGW W-347 and W-270 standards for potable water. Use it in:

· Overhead water tanks.

· Underground reservoirs.

· Swimming pools.

· Water treatment facilities.

Rinse thoroughly before filling and the water is safe.

Concrete Containers and Structures

Any concrete structure that must hold water or keep water out:

· Sewage treatment plants.

· Retaining walls.

· Tunnels.

· Foundations.

Roof Slabs and Terraces

Applied over the entire roof surface, AQUAFIN-IC provides joint-free, seamless protection. No seams mean no weak points. No weak points mean no leaks.

Step-by-Step Application

Surface Preparation — Critical for Success

The substrate must be:

1. Firm and load-bearing no loose concrete.

2. Pore-open smooth surfaces need mechanical roughening.

3. Free of contaminants oil, grease, paint, curing compounds must be removed.

4. Matt damp wet but no standing water.

High-pressure water jetting (400–2000 bar) is the TDS-recommended method.

Mixing Instructions

· Pour 6.75 to 8 liters of clean water into a bucket.

· Add powder while stirring vigorously.

· Mix for 3 minutes at 500–700 rpm.

· Let rest for 5 minutes (activation time).

· Mix again briefly.

Application — Two Layers Minimum

First layer: Apply with a wide brush, working vigorously into the concrete. This is not painting it’s scrubbing. The crystals need to penetrate.

Second layer: Apply while first layer is still sticky (within 60 minutes). Never let the first layer dry out.

Curing — Where the Magic Happens

Crystals need moisture to grow. Without proper curing, performance suffers.

· Protect from sun, wind and rain for 24 hours.

· Keep surface damp for at least 3 days (mist regularly).

· In dry conditions, use water-soaked jute sheets.

· Full pressure resistance at 7 days.

Important Notes for Pakistani Conditions

Fly Ash in Concrete

Many Pakistani ready-mix plants use fly ash. The TDS requires:

· Fly ash content ≤ 30% of binder.

· CaO content not exceeding 15%.

· For unusual mixes, consult technical services.

What AQUAFIN-IC Cannot Do

The TDS is explicit: AQUAFIN-IC cannot be overcoated with tiles, plaster, screeds or paint. If tiling is required, use a bonding bridge consult Aquafin Pakistan.

It also cannot be used as an additive to concrete or plaster. It is a surface treatment only.

Efflorescence — Not a Defect

The reaction with free lime may cause slight white deposits. This is normal and can be brushed off. It does not affect performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can AQUAFIN-IC be applied to old concrete?

Yes. As long as the surface is properly prepared cleaned, roughened and matt-damp it will penetrate and form crystals in existing concrete.

Q: How long does the protection last?

Permanently. The crystals are insoluble and become part of the concrete. Even if the concrete dries completely, dormant chemicals reactivate when moisture returns.

Q: Is it truly safe for drinking water?

Yes. DVGW W-347 and W-270 certification means it meets German standards for potable water contact. Rinse the tank before filling.

Q: Can I apply it in extreme heat?

Application temperature range is 5°C to 30°C. In Karachi’s summer, work early morning or late evening. Keep the surface damp longer.

Q: What happens if rain comes during curing?

Protect fresh coating from rain for at least 24 hours. Rain can wash out uncured material. If rain occurs, assess the surface reapplication may be needed.

Conclusion

AQUAFIN®-IC represents a fundamentally different approach to waterproofing. Instead of trying to keep water out with a barrier on the surface a barrier that will eventually fail it transforms the concrete itself into a watertight material.

Self-healing cracks up to 0.4 mm. Pressure resistance up to 14 bar. Permanent activity that never stops working. And certification for drinking water.

For basements in Lahore, water tanks in Islamabad, terraces in Karachi this is the crystalline solution that engineers are specifying.

Provides long-term integral waterproofing protection within the concrete matrix

Contact Aquafin Pakistan today for technical consultation, site visits and product supply.

Serving: Karachi | Lahore | Islamabad | Rawalpindi | Faisalabad | Multan | Across Pakistan

Website: aquafinpakistan.com

Email: salesengineer@aquafinpakistan.com

Phone: +92–300–8116479