Efflock Hydrophobic Additive: A Technical Overview
Efflock is a water-based, VOC-free hydrophobic additive for cementitious systems. It creates a hydrophobic molecular structure within pores of cured concrete and mortars, dramatically reducing liquid water absorption while remaining vapour-permeable. Used in tile screeds (3:1 or 4:1 sand:cement), cement-based adhesives and grouts, renders, mortars and structural concrete, it helps prevent efflorescence, damp-related failures, picture framing and salt attack. Materials mixed with Efflock remain compatible with typical waterproofing membranes and finishes, supporting reliable adhesion and faster, drier builds across Australian climates.
Core Features & Specifications
- Hydrophobic bulk impregnation within cementitious pores — reduces water ingress without blocking vapour movement.
- Efflorescence control across screeds, adhesives and grouts — supports cleaner finishes and fewer call-backs.
- Water-based, VOC-free, non-DG — easy handling and safer site logistics.
- Compatible with membranes and finishes — normal adhesion maintained when used as directed.
- Screed guidance — 3:1 or 4:1 sand:cement; compact well, wood-float, and damp cure as per best practice.
- Dilution — typical 1:100 (additive:water) for most mixes; sealer use is 1:9 as a separate surface treatment.
- Application temperature — install/cure between ~4 °C and 35 °C.
- Pack sizes — 1 L, 5 L, 20 L; store sealed, dry, out of sun; typical shelf life at least 24 months.
The Efflock Hydrophobic Additive Advantage
- Prevents damp-related failures — protects tiling systems from the substrate up for robust, repeatable outcomes.
- Cleaner, more durable finishes — repels salt and contaminants to reduce staining, moss and maintenance.
- On-site efficiency — reduces weather delays by repelling incidental rainwater during construction in exposed areas.
- System flexibility — suitable across screeds, adhesives, grouts, renders and structural concrete for consistent performance.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Screed mixed “wet” with variable sand moisture
Potential Outcome: Under-dosed additive and higher water content can lead to curling, slower drying and increased efflorescence risk.
Adheseal Best Practice: Use a screed mixer; dose Efflock neat per mixer capacity, then add only the water required. Compact thoroughly and damp cure.
Scenario: Rain exposure before grout/caulk
Potential Outcome: Water entering adhesive notches can delay hydrophobic function and introduce salts.
Adheseal Best Practice: Avoid rain exposure; if it occurs, vacuum out water from notches and allow full evaporation before grouting/caulking.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Waterproofers (Specifier/Engineer): Balcony & wet-area screeds
The Professional's Challenge
Limiting efflorescence migration and damp beneath membranes while maintaining vapour permeability and adhesion.
The Adheseal Solution
Specify screed at 3:1–4:1 with Efflock dosed per mixer capacity. Wood-float, damp cure 7 days, then allow ~2 weeks dry/stabilise before membrane. Materials mixed with Efflock remain compatible with normal membrane adhesion.
Best Practice Note
Water-test screed at 24 h: strong beading indicates correct dosing. Rectify ponding on substrates before waterproofing.
For Tilers (On-site Applicator): Stone paving — picture framing control
The Professional's Challenge
Perimeter darkening and salt migration with low-porosity stones; need to protect joints and bedding without trapping moisture.
The Adheseal Solution
Use Efflock in bedding and grout (1:100 dilution for mixes). Keep joints full and flush; manage rain exposure pre-grout. Consider consistent treatment approach across the whole surface to avoid uneven absorption effects.
Best Practice Note
With sensitive stones, run site samples and observe after wetting/drying cycles. Follow adhesive maker guidance if pre-sealing.
For Bricklayers/Builders (Business Owner): Mortar durability & damp course support
The Professional's Challenge
Rising damp and salt attack in masonry; need cleaner joints and long-term appearance with minimal maintenance.
The Adheseal Solution
Add Efflock to mortar to create a hydrophobic matrix and effective joint-by-joint damp barrier. Protect early set from rain and manage cleaning with appropriate acid dilution.
Best Practice Note
Use Type GP cement; dose plasticisers sparingly. Protect cores/frogs from rain entry during build-up.
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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