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Efflock Hydrophobic Additive is a high-performance, VOC-free liquid additive designed for the bulk impregnation of cement-based screeds, adhesives, and grouts in demanding tiling and masonry environments.
By creating a breathable, hydrophobic molecular structure throughout the entire material mass, it prevents capillary action and salt migration, effectively eliminating the risk of catastrophic waterproofing failure, picture framing in natural stone, and crypto-florescence.
This technology negates the requirement for secondary liquid membranes for efflorescence control, providing up to an 80% cost saving while maintaining full compatibility with primary membrane adhesion and subsequent finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dilution rates should I use for screeds, adhesives and grouts?
For most cementitious mixes (adhesives, grouts, mortar/render), use 1:100 (Efflock:water) as gauging water. For dry screeds with variable sand moisture, dose Efflock neat per mixer capacity, then add only the water needed for workability.
Is Efflock compatible with waterproofing membranes?
Yes. Materials containing Efflock are suitable for normal membrane adhesion when the system is installed to standards and manufacturer guidance. Allow appropriate cure/dry times before membrane application.
What temperatures can I apply or cure at on site?
Maintain installation and curing between about 4 °C and 35 °C. Protect from premature drying (heat/sun/wind) and from rain during the first day to ensure performance and appearance.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Balcony/wet-area tile screeds | Reduces water uptake and efflorescence; supports reliable membrane adhesion | Waterproofers, Tilers |
| Cement-based adhesives & grouts | Controls secondary efflorescence; cleaner joints and finishes | Tilers |
| Mortar/render/brickwork | Joint-level damp resistance; improved long-term appearance | Bricklayers, Builders |
| Structural/flatwork concrete | Repels contaminants and water; reduces moss growth; supports durability | Builders |
Applying Efflock Hydrophobic Additive: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Batching & Mixing
Use Type GP cement. For most mixes, prepare gauging water at 1:100 (Efflock:water). For dry screeds with variable sand moisture, dose Efflock neat per mixer capacity, then add water to achieve workability.
Screed (3:1–4:1)
Measure additive neat based on mixer volume (e.g., 100 mL per 100 L). Mechanically mix to uniform dispersion.
Adhesive/Grout/Mortar
Use 1:100 gauging water. Observe manufacturer water demand; Efflock may reduce water required slightly.
Timing: Avoid rain for ~24 h. Maintain 4–35 °C during early cure.Pro Tip: If screed drags or sticks to tools, reduce added water — Efflock improves workability. -
Placement & Finishing
Compact screed thoroughly; wood-float to close. Achieve ≥90% adhesive coverage beneath tiles.
Screed
Damp cure 7 days; dry/stabilise ~2 weeks before tiling/membrane.
Adhesive/Grout
Protect from rain until joints are grouted and perimeter/expansion caulking completed.
Timing: Water-test screed at ~24 h; expect visible beading if dosing was correct.Pro Tip: If rain enters adhesive notches, vacuum out and allow to evaporate fully before grouting.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not designed to resist hydrostatic head under full submersion. Use within system design suitable for submerged conditions (e.g., pools at/near waterline only per guidance).
Sensitive natural stones can show dry-spot effects if unevenly treated; always conduct site samples and align sealing strategy accordingly.
Use Type GP cement; avoid Type GB “Builders Cement” where efflorescence risk is critical.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear safety glasses, gloves and suitable workwear during mixing and placement. Wash hands after use.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas. Although VOC-free, follow normal cement handling practices and avoid inhaling dust from dry constituents.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Non-DG. Store sealed, dry, out of direct sunlight; protect from freezing/overheating. Keep containers clean and free from solvent residues.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing and launder before reuse.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air and rest. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
Efflock Hydrophobic Additive Application Guide
Concrete Substrates
Surface Preparation
Rectify ponding/negative falls before waterproofing. Use Type GP cement. Ensure substrate is cured; rinse salts if exposed. Prepare slurry or bonded screed as required.
Primer Requirements
No primer typically required
Materials containing Efflock maintain normal adhesion with membranes and finishes when applied per guidance.
Tile Screed (3:1–4:1)
Surface Preparation
Use washed sharp sand and GP cement. Mechanically mix; compact without voids; wood-float. Damp cure 7 days; then allow ~2 weeks to dry/stabilise prior to tiling/membrane.
Primer Requirements
No primer typically required
Where a bonded screed is used, prepare a cement slurry; follow adhesive maker guidance for porcelain/low-porosity materials.
Cement-Based Adhesives & Grouts
Surface Preparation
Keep substrates free of standing water; rinse salts if exposed. Aim for ≥90% adhesive coverage under tiles as per standards.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional as per adhesive manufacturer
Use 1:100 Efflock gauging water. Adjust water down slightly if workability is high; observe manufacturer water design rate.
Mortar / Render / Brickwork
Surface Preparation
Protect early set from rain. Manage cleaning with suitable acid dilution. Use plasticisers sparingly; Type GP cement recommended.
Primer Requirements
No primer typically required
Add Efflock to the mix to create joint-by-joint damp resistance and cleaner, more durable work.
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