Bitumen waterproofing paint is often used as a sealant for pavements and other kinds of surfaces. This material is effective in protecting various surfaces from water damage as it works as a barrier between the concrete or asphalt and the liquid.
How to Apply Bitumen Waterproofing Paint
The proper application of bituminous coating for waterproofing is essential to ensure the longevity of your waterproofing layer. Using the right techniques and tools will maximize the effectiveness of the product and keep pavements and other surfaces safe from water-induced damage longer.
Prepare the Surface
The first and often regarded as the most crucial part of applying bitumen waterproofing paint is preparing the surface. Before applying the waterproofing layer, you should ensure that the surface is clean from dirt, grease, rust, and other contaminants that may affect the bituminous coating’s performance.
Check the area for any loose or blistering paints as well. Remove them if you see any to ensure the adhesion of the material to the surface.
You should also check if the asphalt is dry enough before working. You can test its dampness by placing a clear plastic sheet over a small area of the surface to be treated in direct sunlight and leaving it for 2 hours. Check the plastic sheet after, and if moisture is present on it, the area is too damp to be worked on. It is better to postpone your work for another day or wait a few hours for the area to dry.
Gather Your Equipment
After checking the surface, you should gather and prepare the tools and equipment you will be using for the job. Since the bituminous coating is in liquid form, you can apply it like a house paint using rollers or brushes. However, if you will be working on a large surface, you should consider using sprayers to improve efficiency.
You also need to prepare personal protective equipment, which will keep you safe from the chemicals in the bitumen waterproofing paint. Make sure to wear a mask as well, especially if you are working in a confined space.
Apply the Bitumen Waterproofing Coating
Now that you have what you need, it is time to apply the first coat of the bituminous coating on the pavement. Make sure to apply the material evenly on the surface and let it dry for 2–4 hours.
After a few hours and once the first coat is dry, you should apply your second coat for better protection. Ensure that you are applying the additional coat at a 90-degree angle in reference to the first one. Doing so will help you guarantee the effectiveness of the waterproofing layer.
Clean Up Any Spills
As you are letting the second coat dry, you can start cleaning up any spilled bitumen waterproofing paint on the surface, your PPE, or your skin. It should be easy to clean the material up using water before it fully dries. If you encounter stubborn spots, you can use mineral turpentine to clean up the bitumen waterproofing coating.
Open the Road to Traffic
Once the bitumen waterproofing paint is fully dry, you can open the road to traffic and pedestrians. The coating will protect the pavement from water and maintain its integrity for a long time.
Experience the Benefits of Bitumen Waterproofing Paint
Applying bitumen waterproofing properly can provide you with various benefits, the main one being keeping any surface safe from water damage. Bitumen waterproofing paint is also effective in protecting asphalt and other types of material from any damage caused by UV rays and chemicals. This makes investing in bitumen waterproofing paint worth every peso.