14/04/2020
With a strong background in civil and structural engineering as well as experience in temporary works, steel and concrete design, Ismail Hussein, Sika’s Waterproofing Render Manager for London, tells us all about one of our latest product launches; Sika-1 Pre-Bagged System.
What is it? Where did it come from?
The Sika-1 Pre-Bagged Waterproofing System is a new and improved version of Sika-1 Render System, which incorporated Sika-1 liquid waterproofer invented back in 1910 by Sika’s founder; Kaspar Winkler and used to control water ingress on new build, repair and refurbishment projects worldwide.
The Sika-1 Pre-Bagged Waterproofing System consists of a special blend of cement and kiln-dried graded aggregates, which are ready-made with Sika-1 waterproofing admixtures included as a powder. This removes the need for a separate liquid waterproofer; all that’s needed is water and you’re ready to go!
Once applied there is no requirement for ongoing maintenance or equipment, such as sump pumps.
What has been improved in the new formula?
The main improvement is that a separate liquid admixture is no longer needed, resulting in less packaging as well as less components to be delivered from our manufacturing facility in Welwyn Garden City, which helps to reduce our carbon footprint.
The product eliminates the risk of incorrect admixture dosing, as it’s now incorporated in the prebagged blend of specially-selected cements and aggregates. This gives the contractor one less task to do, subsequently saving time on site. It also saves space too, with one less component of the Sika-1 system to store.
At the same time we have taken the opportunity to improve the workability and finish of the different mortars, based on feedback from our customers.
Where and why should you use Sika-1 Pre-Bagged System?
It’s main use is for internal waterproofing, especially during refurbishments of existing structures, basements and swimming pools, as well as on new build projects.The product is ideal because:
- it doesn’t require ongoing maintenance
- it doesn’t litter the substrate with holes
- it doesn’t hide structural defects such as subsidence
- it protects the substrate by encasing and preserving it.
- It has minimal thickness, retaining more of the internal space for use
It is recommended as a Type A waterproofing protection system (cementitious multi-coat render) for use in high risk environments under Table 1 of BS8102:2009.