Liquid scum

Liquid blind area is a modern solution for protecting foundations and building bases from moisture and atmospheric precipitation. This innovative material creates a reliable, durable, and waterproof barrier that prevents water penetration under the foundation and cracking, significantly extending the building’s lifespan. This article provides an in-depth overview of what liquid blind area is, its composition, types, advantages and disadvantages, application technology, operational features, and comparison with traditional blind area methods.

The article is intended for builders, designers, architects, as well as private homeowners and developers seeking exhaustive information about liquid blind area and its use in modern construction.

What is Liquid Blind Area: Definition and Purpose

Liquid blind area is a waterproofing material applied in liquid form around the foundation base to create a protective layer. Unlike traditional blind areas made from concrete or asphalt, liquid blind area is elastic and can hermetically cover even complex surfaces without seams or joints.

Its main purpose is to prevent rain and meltwater from penetrating the soil under the foundation, reducing the risk of soil heaving, cracking, and foundation deformation. Additionally, it provides thermal insulation and protection against aggressive chemicals in the soil.

Liquid blind area forms a smooth and monolithic layer adaptable to any shapes and surface irregularities. It is often used in renovation and repair where traditional blind area is impossible or economically unfeasible.

Composition and Types of Liquid Blind Area

Liquid blind area is made from various materials determining its properties and applications. The base includes polymer mixtures, bitumen-polymer mastics, polyurethane or acrylic compounds, and cement-polymer solutions.

Cement-polymer mixes combine cement with polymer additives, providing good adhesion to concrete and brick surfaces, enhanced strength, and waterproofing. These have moderate elasticity and are used for protective layers on flat and moderately deformable bases.

Polyurethane and acrylic mastics offer high elasticity and UV resistance, ideal for outdoor use with significant temperature fluctuations. They form a thin but durable waterproof layer retaining properties over time.

Bitumen-polymer mastics are used for waterproofing and protecting blind areas with high deformation. They adhere well to various bases, resist moisture and aggressive environments but require careful surface preparation before application.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Liquid Blind Area

A key advantage is creating a seamless, monolithic layer without joints, greatly reducing leakage and waterproofing failure risk. The material’s elasticity compensates for base deformations, preventing cracks and chips.

Liquid blind area has high adhesion to various construction materials, ensuring reliable bonding. Its structure allows easy application on complex and uneven surfaces, expanding its use.

The material resists UV radiation, aggressive chemicals, and temperature swings, ensuring durability and reliability.

Drawbacks include the need for thorough surface preparation, including cleaning, leveling, and drying. Some types require special primers and strict temperature conditions during application.

Also, proper application requires experience, especially with polyurethane and bitumen-polymer compounds. Improper technique can reduce performance and lifespan.

Application Technology of Liquid Blind Area

Application starts with base preparation. The surface must be cleaned from dust, dirt, oil, and contaminants. Loose particles should be removed, and irregularities leveled to maximize adhesion.

Next, a primer is applied if needed, improving adhesion and waterproofing. Primer choice depends on liquid blind area type and base.

Liquid blind area is applied using brushes, rollers, or spray equipment. Layer thickness varies by material and waterproofing requirements, typically 1 to 5 mm.

If necessary, second or third layers are applied after drying the previous one to achieve required thickness and hermeticity.

The final stage involves protecting the surface from mechanical damage and UV exposure, possibly with protective paints or coatings.

Operation Features and Maintenance of Liquid Blind Area

Liquid blind area requires minimal maintenance but following simple rules preserves properties and extends service life. Avoid mechanical damage and sharp objects on the surface.

Regular visual inspection for cracks, blisters, or peeling is recommended. Damages should be promptly repaired using compatible materials.

To prevent dirt and dust accumulation, the surface can be periodically cleaned with soft brushes and water without aggressive chemicals, preserving waterproofing and appearance.

In extreme climates or heavy loads, preventive inspections and waterproofing layer renewal are advised.

Comparison of Liquid and Traditional Blind Areas

Traditional blind area is usually concrete or asphalt-based, forming a rigid protective belt around the foundation. It requires significant labor, time, and drying periods.

Liquid blind area, unlike traditional, is applied quickly, forming a seamless elastic layer that does not crack under temperature changes or soil movement. This improves waterproofing quality and reduces damage risk.

Liquid blind area works well on complex, uneven, or hard-to-reach surfaces where concrete blind area is difficult or impossible.

However, traditional blind area has higher mechanical strength and load resistance, preferred for areas with intense traffic or strong mechanical impact.

Table Comparing Key Characteristics of Liquid and Traditional Blind Areas

Modern Trends and Development Prospects of Liquid Blind Area

Liquid blind area production is evolving with new polymer and composite materials enhancing performance and expanding applications.

Efforts focus on improving eco-friendliness, reducing toxicity, and extending service life without losing elasticity and adhesion.

Innovative solutions integrate thermal insulation and antifreeze components, enabling use in extreme climates.

Application technologies develop robotic and automatic spray systems, improving quality and speed.

Conclusion

Liquid blind area is a modern, effective, and versatile solution for protecting foundations from moisture and mechanical impacts. It combines elasticity, waterproofing, and durability, making it an attractive alternative to traditional methods.

Correct material choice, thorough base preparation, and adherence to application technology ensure reliable protection and extend building lifespan. Modern trends promise further quality improvements and broader usage.

For those aiming for reliable foundation waterproofing with minimal time and resource costs, liquid blind area is the optimal choice.