This article will cover foolproof methods to waterproof your concrete tanks. Be it a big apartment supply tank or a small household tank, we will guide you to achieve perfect waterproofing.
Why do concrete water tank leak?
Answer is in the porous property of concrete which with time let water penetrate inside the structure. No matter how good the concrete is, eventually it will leak. It is not made to stop water perpetually.
What can be done to prevent leaks?
Answer is very simple in concept.
Just like when you wear a raincoat, rain won't reach your clothes, by adding a layer between concrete and water, your tank won't leak water.
There are many chemical methods available in the market but we will talk about the most effective of all: Cementitious Coating using 2K (2 component) Latex compound.
What are a few reliable cementitious coating chemicals available in the market?
Below are three top-notch 2K products to waterproof your tank from trusted brands. All 3 are food grade, hence you can use the water for drinking purposes:
1. Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K:
Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K is ideal for Watertanks, Basements, balconies, and Washrooms. It is approved by CFTRI which makes it ideal for potable water usage.
Another product from the house of Dr. Fixit which is 1-level up from Pidifin 2K is Fastflex. Fastflex is ideally used for swimming pools but works perfectly well for water tanks. Fastflex is also CFTRI approved product.
2. Sika Top 107 Seal IN:
Sika is also a renowned brand in the world of waterproofing.
Sika's 107 Seal IN is a food-grade material that can be used for Swimming pools, Watertanks, Basements, balconies, and Washrooms.
3. Fosroc Brushbond RFX:
This product is from the British firm Fosroc.
Brushbond RFX is similar to the above 2 products and can be used in Watertank, bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
How to apply 2K Cementitious Coatings?
As discussed above, after mixing both components, you will get a thick viscous liquid that can be applied using a big paintbrush or roller. 2K liquid should be applied before plastering the wall so that your plaster won’t get any dampness from the bricks or blocks.
Two coats need to be applied as below:
Step Zero: Create SSD (Surface Saturated Dry) condition by splashing water on the surface. Wait for the pores to be filled & air removed. Remove any access water remain. Wait for 10-15 mins before applying the first coat.
First Coat: Horizontally on the wall.
Wait for 6-8 Hours.
Second Coat: Vertically (Perpendicular) on the wall.
Cure it with a water splash for 48 hours.
(Use instruction on the 2K component pack for precise guidance as it varies with the manufacturer)
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