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Duram Azcothane Reo: A Technical Overview
Duram Azcothane Reo is a water-based polyurethane-fortified acrylic hybrid membrane internally reinforced with microfibres. The internal reinforcement removes the need for separate reinforcing in many details, speeding install and reducing labour. It’s single-pack, low VOC and bonds as a seamless, joint-free membrane. Tested as a Class III membrane to AS 4654.1 and compliant with AS 4858, it’s suitable for protected above-grade waterproofing and wet areas, while allowing direct stick tiling/render once fully cured.
Core Features & Specifications
- Internally microfibre-reinforced — eliminates separate reinforcing in many details, saving time on site.
- Class III performance to AS 4654.1; compliant with AS 4858 — meets NCC waterproofing requirements.
- Water-based, single-pack — no mixing, easier handling, water clean-up.
- Direct stick tile/render suitability — simplifies finishing trades once membrane is fully cured.
- Low VOC — meets Green Star environmental criteria for healthier work environments.
- Seamless bonded membrane — no laps or joints that can become failure points.
- Typical physicals: 311% elongation; 1.32 MPa tensile; 57% solids by volume — flexible yet robust for movement and durability.
- Coverage (waterproofing): 1 m²/L per coat achieving ~0.5 mm DFT per coat; two coats required.
- Cure guide (25 °C, 50% RH): touch dry 2–4 h/coat; recoat 4–24 h; full cure ~96 h before tiling/topping.
- Packaging/colour: 15 L pail (≈16 kg), grey; shelf life 12 months (stored correctly).
The Azcothane Reo Advantage
- Faster detailing: internal reinforcement reduces external fabric use, streamlining installs.
- Compliance confidence: Class III/AS 4654.1 and AS 4858 compliance aligns with NCC expectations.
- Cleaner sites: water clean-up lowers solvent exposure and simplifies equipment maintenance.
- Durable finish: won’t re-emulsify once cured; formulated to inhibit biological growth.
- Aesthetics protected: bitumen/tar-free — won’t stain grout or tiles.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Applying over damp or “green” substrates
Potential Outcome: Trapped moisture can cause blistering or adhesion loss, leading to costly callbacks.
Adheseal Best Practice: Verify moisture using RH in-situ probes (ASTM F2170 <75% RH). Where elevated moisture is present, consult for vapour-retarding priming (e.g., multiple coats of compatible primer as per project advice). Always ensure substrates are dry before coating.
Scenario: Expecting foot traffic on finished membrane
Potential Outcome: Premature wear or damage — the system is not trafficable without protection.
Adheseal Best Practice: Use Azcothane Reo in protected systems only. Provide suitable toppings/tiles over cured membrane; do not expose to ongoing traffic.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Waterproofers (Specifier/Engineer): Balcony & Terrace Class III system
The Professional's Challenge
You need an AS 4654.1 Class III membrane with documented performance and compatibility for direct stick tiling, minimising risk of non-conformance and movement-related failures.
The Adheseal Solution
Prime per substrate, detail joints/corners, then apply two coats at 1 m²/L per coat (≈0.5 mm DFT/coat) to achieve Class III build. Allow full cure (~96 h at 25 °C/50% RH) before tiling with compatible adhesives. Internally reinforced membrane simplifies detailing while maintaining compliance.
Best Practice Note
Verify falls to drains and edge terminations before coating. Record WFT/DFT targets on QA sheets; check dry film with combs at corners/edges where thin spots occur most often.
For Tilers (On-site Applicator): Wet area membrane under ceramic finishes
The Professional's Challenge
Tight program, multiple trades, and a need for a seamless wet area membrane that accepts direct stick tiling without complicating the schedule.
The Adheseal Solution
Apply two coats at 1 m²/L per coat with 9–13 mm nap roller. Once fully cured, proceed with direct stick tiling/render. Water clean-up keeps tools and spaces tidy and reduces downtime between coats.
Best Practice Note
Respect recoat windows (4–24 h) and allow full cure prior to tiling. Protect cured membrane from damage during set-out and dry-lay to avoid repairs.
For Builders/Remedial (Business Owner/Operator): Podium waterproofing
The Professional's Challenge
Deliver predictable, NCC-aligned waterproofing with low VOCs and minimal fabric detailing to keep labour under control and reduce call-backs.
The Adheseal Solution
Internally reinforced membrane forms a bonded, seamless system with fewer laps. Low VOC supports indoor works. Document substrate strength (≥20 MPa), moisture (e.g., RH <75% via F2170), and primer selection to lock down QA.
Best Practice Note
Pre-plan penetrations and terminations. Use mock-ups to confirm coverage rates and finish before full production to avoid rework.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Azcothane Reo suitable as a trafficable membrane?
No — it is not a trafficable system. Use it in protected assemblies. Once fully cured, apply tiles/toppings as specified to provide the wearing surface and protect the membrane from damage.
When can I tile over Azcothane Reo?
At 25 °C and 50% RH, allow approximately 96 hours for full cure before tiling or topping. Recoat after 4–24 hours. Always verify actual site conditions and ensure the membrane is fully cured.
Which standards does it meet?
It is tested as a Class III membrane to AS 4654.1 and meets AS 4858 wet area membrane requirements, aligning with NCC expectations for waterproofing systems.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Balconies & Terraces | Class III build, flexible 311% elongation for movement | Waterproofers, Builders |
| Decks & Podiums (protected) | Seamless bonded membrane; low VOC for site safety | Builders, Remedial |
| Showers & Wet Areas | AS 4858 compliance; direct stick tile after full cure | Tilers, Waterproofers |
| Window Reveals | Quick detailing with internal reinforcement | Builders |
Applying Azcothane Reo: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Ensure substrates are sound, dry, clean and free of laitance/contaminants. Verify concrete strength (≥20 MPa) and moisture (e.g., RH <75% via F2170). Treat cracks/joints as specified.
Laitance Removal
Shot-blast (preferred) or grind to obtain a clean, profiled surface for optimum adhesion.
Crack & Joint Treatment
For >1.6 mm non-structural cracks, grind to ~6 mm and seal (1:1 width:depth). Apply 150 mm wide detail coat over treated areas.
Timing: Proceed to priming only when substrate is demonstrably dry and prepared.Pro Tip: Record moisture readings and prep method in QA logs — it’s the simplest way to avoid callbacks. -
Priming
Prime per substrate: porous with Primeseal MC (preferred) or WB Primer/Maxiprime; metals with ME Primer; plastics with Superprime 711. Allow primers to cure as per their TDS.
Vapour Retardation
Where required, apply two coats of Primeseal MC in line with project advice.
Detailing Aids
Use appropriate bandages (e.g., Durascrim/Leak-Seal/DualFlex) at joints and corners as specified.
Timing: Do not apply below 4 °C or above 43 °C substrate temperature.Pro Tip: Excessively porous substrates may require multiple primer coats — check absorption by spot testing. -
Membrane Application
Apply with a 9–13 mm nap roller. For waterproofing: two coats at 1 m²/L per coat (≈0.5 mm DFT/coat). For water-resistant (non-tanking) walls: one coat at ~1 m²/L as specified.
Reinforced Detail (where required)
Embed Durascrim into a wet coat, working out wrinkles, then apply two further coats over the reinforced zone.
Build & Verification
Target ~1.0 mm WFT per coat to achieve ~0.5 mm DFT. Check film thickness at corners/edges.
Timing: Recoat after 4–24 h. Full cure ≈96 h at 25 °C/50% RH before tiling/topping.Pro Tip: Protect the cured membrane from damage during set-out and lay — repairs slow programs. -
Clean-up
Use water for wet spills/equipment. Allow spills on carpet to cure then shave — do not attempt wet clean-off.
Timing: Clean tools immediately after use to maintain performance.Pro Tip: Keep fresh water and clean cloths on hand to maintain a tidy workspace and reduce turnaround time.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not suitable for direct contact with high concentrations of chlorine.
Do not apply on wet substrates; verify acceptable moisture before priming and coating.
Not a trafficable membrane — use only in protected systems.
Not for below-grade or planter box applications.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear gloves, safety glasses and suitable work clothing. Avoid skin/eye contact. Wash after handling.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas. Manage vapours in enclosed spaces; follow local site safety procedures.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Keep away from ignition sources during application. Store upright in a cool, dry place in unopened containers.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if easy; continue rinsing.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing and launder before reuse.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air and rest in a comfortable position.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical advice immediately.
Read the SDS before use and seek medical attention for any serious exposure.
Azcothane Reo Application Guide
Concrete / Screed (≥20 MPa)
Surface Preparation
Cure to ≥20 MPa. Verify moisture: F2170 RH <75% (preferred) or F2659 ≤4.5% (comparative). Remove laitance by shot-blast/grind; clean free of dust, curing agents, contaminants. Ensure DPM under slab-on-grade.
Primer Requirements
Primer required for optimal adhesion and moisture control
Prime with Duram Primeseal MC (preferred). For elevated moisture/vapour, apply two coats as project-specific advice. Excessively porous concrete may need multiple primer coats.
Duram Primeseal MCLightweight Composite Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Install per manufacturer/engineer. Support all edges on framing; correct fixings/centres. Provide movement joints as required and treat joints with approved compounds/bandages. Ensure dry and clean before priming.
Primer Requirements
Primer typically required
Prime with Duram WB Primer, Maxiprime or project-advised system. Detail joints with suitable bandage (e.g., Durascrim/Leak-Seal Tape/DualFlex).
Duram WB Primer / MaxiprimeNon-Porous Metals & Plastics (penetrations, outlets)
Surface Preparation
Mechanically abrade metals to AS 1627.4 Class 2.5 (Near White Metal). Abrade plastics to create profile. Clean with IPA (two-cloth method) and allow solvent to flash off.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Prime metals with Duram ME Primer; plastics with Duram Superprime 711. Confirm adhesion with project-specific testing for large areas.
Duram ME Primer / Superprime 711- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.