Home Waterproofing and protecting reinforced concrete against carbonation
RD-ELASTOFLEX, a high performance water-based elastic and decorative paint for :
- waterproofing surfaces while allowing the substrate to breathe
- bridging micro-cracks
- an aesthetic finish that lasts over time
The products you need
RD-Elastoflex 
Breathable waterproofing system for concrete, walls and façades; protects against weathering,...
Breathable waterproofing system for concrete, walls and façades; protects against weathering,...
RD-Mur Fleece 
Reinforcement mesh used in waterproofing systems for walls and façades.
Reinforcement mesh used in waterproofing systems for walls and façades.
The problem
Concrete is a relatively strong material. Good quality concrete is capable of resisting against acid rain and to neutralize sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide it comes into contact with.
However, if the concrete is of poor quality, subject to higher pollution, or simply aged, various problems can occur that will cause cracks and water ingress.
In the case of porous concrete or cracks, carbonation is a continuous process which means that sooner or later the steel reinforcement will come into contact with the carbonated area and start to rust.
The presence of chlorides can accentuate this process as these salts will eventually reach the reinforcement bars and activate corrosion. Rusting of the rebar will cause the concrete cover to detach from the rebar and to crack!
The solution
RD-Elastoflex
Elastic and breathable waterproofing membrane for the protection of concrete, walls and facades; protects against erosion, carbonation and water infiltration.
Moisture regulating solution to prevent internal condensation and with very high elasticity for better crack bridging. Thanks to its high quality resin and pigmentation and its very good dirt pick-up resistance, RD-Elastoflex keeps the surfaces it protects in perfect condition for many years.
Recommanded quantity and thickness
RD-Elastoflex : 0,8 kg / m² for 310 µ dry - 75 p² / gallon for 12 mils dry.
The system is applied in a minimum of two coats using a brush, roller or airless sprayer.
Wide choice of colours from the RAL and NCS colour chart. Contact an RD Coatings representative for a custom colour.
Thanks to this solution, rain will not reach the reinforcement, preventing carbonation and curling of the reinforcing bars!
Benefits of the system
This system offers multiple advantages for the contractor and the applicator:
- a certified solution that meets the EN 1504-2 standard
- low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) levels
- quick and easy to instal solution
- fast drying time and reduced downtime
- extensively tested worldwide
- wide range of colours and very good durability
Our water-based products prevent:
- bringing hazardous products to the site while eliminating the risk of fire or explosion
- nuisances in the vicinity with annoying odours during and after application
- emissions of harmful substances
- losses during and after application
Getting ready
Weather
When working outdoors, avoid starting a job if rain is forecast within 3 hours of application. A minimum of 12°C / 54°F is recommended for comfortable working conditions with higher productivity. Avoid working in direct sunlight, especially in very hot areas, where early morning or late evening work is preferred. Ensure that there is no condensation on the surface before and during application, and during the first hours of drying. In the case of facades, it is sometimes possible to work according to the rotation of the sun, preferring the shaded area in summer and in very hot weather and the sunny area in cooler weather. Ensure that there is no condensation on the surface before and during application, as well as during the first few hours of drying.
Surface preparation
The support must be cleaned, dry and dust free. New masonry must first be brushed with an iron brush to remove the remains of mortar. If there is moss on the support, remove it using a suitable anti-moss product.
- Fill cracks with an acrylic sealant such as RD-Acryl W.
- Use RD-Cement Filler for concrete repairs.
- RD-Mur Fleece should be used where there are active and significant cracks.
Presence of an existing coating
It is essential to check whether the coating still has sufficient adhesion!
Clean previously painted surfaces using a 275 bar - 4000 psi high pressure cleaner with a rotating nozzle. In addition to obtaining a clean surface, this step will ensure that the existing coating still adheres properly.
If there are blisters, open them and cut them out, then remove the loose coating. Never paint on a coating that does not adhere properly!
On a porous surface
If the substrate to be painted is bare and porous, with occasional residues of old paint adhering well, it is necessary to impregnate carefully and thoroughly with RD-Unifix using a brush or sprayer, until the substrate comes to a slightly satin appearance.
This will also ensure a better performance of the following coats and prevent the RD-Elastoflex system from being absorbed into the concrete.
For medium-porous surfaces, another option is to dilute the first coat of RD-Elastoflex with +/- 10% water. This saves one step!
On a smooth surface
Apply a first coat of RD-Elastodeck diluted with 25% water or a coat of RD-Multiprim.
Equipment
RD-Elastoflex can be applied by brush and roller to specific areas or small surfaces, and by airless device to main areas or larger surfaces.
Choose the type of brush according to the size of the objects to be painted.
For roller application you can use a 14 mm polyamide roller.
Specifications for an airless application
RD-Elastoflex: minimum output of 180 bar or 2600 psi and a nozzle size between 0.015 and 0.023 inches.
At the end of the work, clean your equipment with clean water or according to the equipment manufacturer's manual.
The application
The product is ready to use. Stir it mechanically for a few minutes before application. Do not add water except when clearly specified. Check before each application that the surface is free of dust, contamination or condensation.
If preparation or application has been interrupted for more than 3 days without rain or if it is located in a polluted environment, we recommend that the areas to be coated be washed again or rinsed with a high pressure cleaner, without putting too much pressure, the aim being to remove any dirt.
Advice
To ensure that the correct amount of paint is applied and that the second coat is evenly distributed over the entire surface, we recommend to use two different shades to distinguish the first coat from the second.
Application
Apply the first coat of RD-Elastoflex to the entire surface.
Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours before applying the second coat. Depending on the weather, this may take more or less time.
Apply a second full coat of RD-Elastoflex to the entire surface the next day.
After 4 hours of drying at 20°C, the coating is dry and rainproof.
The amount applied per m² is important and should be in accordance with the recommendations as it will guarantee the long-term performance of the RD-Elastoflex system. If this has not been achieved, do not hesitate to apply a third coat.
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Application with RD-Mur Fleece
In the case of active cracks, large cracks, gaps and joints in poor condition, we recommend covering them with RD-Mur Fleece. This is a highly resistant perforated polyester fleece available in various widths and lengths.
The principle is to place the fleece against the surface and apply the first layer of RD-Elastoflex over it. The paint will pass through the fleece and stick it to the surface as it dries. The next coat is then simply applied on top.
Reinforcing the coating with RD-Mur Fleece ensures that the crack is protected should it reappear.
Start at the highest point. Apply a small amount of RD-Elastoflex to the surface and hold the rol of fleece against the surface to set it in the paint, roll the fleece out gradually +/- 50 cm - 20 inches downwards.
Apply a layer of RD-Elastoflex to the fleece while holding it so that its weight does not lift off the newly applied material, and gradually lower and cut the fleece according to the size of the crack.
Depending on the height and size of the cracks, it is sometimes easier to work in pairs.
