Rising damp and efflorescence are two of the most persistent problems in concrete and masonry construction. Both are caused by the same root issue — water moving through the capillary pores of cement-based materials. Nano coating technology offers a permanent solution by treating the problem at the source.
What Causes Rising Damp and Efflorescence?
Concrete, screed, render, and masonry are porous by nature. Water enters through microscopic capillary pores and moves upward through the material by capillary action. As it evaporates at the surface, it deposits dissolved salts — this white powdery residue is efflorescence. Over time, repeated wetting and drying cycles cause surface deterioration, staining, and structural damage.
The Permanent Solution: 3001 Hydrophobic Agent Admixture
The 3001 Hydrophobic Agent Admixture is mixed directly into the gauging water during concrete, screed, mortar, or render production. It reacts chemically with the calcium silicate hydrate in the cement, permanently lining the internal pores with a water-repellent layer.
Unlike surface sealers that wear away, the admixture becomes part of the material itself — protecting the entire structure from the inside out for the life of the building.
How to Apply 3001 Hydrophobic Agent Admixture
- Dilute: Mix 1 part 3001 with 100 parts clean water
- Mix: Use this solution as your gauging water when preparing your dry mix (screed, render, mortar, or concrete)
- Cure: Allow the material to cure as normal — within 24 hours the substrate is fully hydrophobic
No additional steps, no waiting periods beyond standard curing time.
Key Technical Facts
- Does not block pores — the material remains fully vapour permeable
- Can hold hydrostatic pressure between 60mm and up to 100mm
- Tested for salt resistance and freeze cycle resistance
- Penetration depth up to 10mm
- Zero VOC, water-based, LEED compliant
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Compatible Substrates
- Concrete and concrete masonry
- Sand-cement screeds
- Cement render and plaster
- Mortar and grouts
- Fibre cement products
What About Existing Concrete?
If the concrete is already poured and cured, use the 3001 Concrete Sealer Concentrate instead. Applied to the surface and diluted 1:9 with water, it penetrates up to 10mm into the capillary structure and provides the same permanent hydrophobic protection — at approximately $1.00 per m².