In the world of concrete construction, ensuring long-term durability and protection against moisture is paramount. Concrete admixtures in Australia have become an essential part of this process, improving concrete’s performance by enhancing its strength, reducing permeability, and making it more resilient to harsh environmental factors. When it comes to choosing the right admixture, CLEVA CRETE stands out as a leading product, offering significant advantages over traditional crystalline technology and topical “spray and pray” method of waterproofing.
The Problem with Traditional Methods: Crystalline Hydrophobicity and External Membranes
Crystalline technology, commonly used in the construction industry, works by creating crystalline formations within the concrete that swell and restrict flow in moisture pathways. While this can be effective in some cases, it often doesn’t offer the long-lasting durability that is required for current design-life demands, given many of Australia’s challenging conditions. Over time, the crystalline structures continue to allow a level of water and chemicals through the concrete, leading to potential moisture ingress and a reduction in the concrete’s overall design-life. Similarly, Hydrophobicity admixtures challenge the effectiveness of hydration of the cementitious particles, thus weakening the concrete and usually requires extra cement or reinforcing.
Topical, external waterproofing membranes, such as those applied using the “spray and pray” method, can appear to be an easy fix. These membranes are applied to the surface of the concrete with the expectation that they will prevent water from penetrating. However, this approach has several drawbacks:
CLEVA CRETE’s Innovation: Disrupting Capillary Formation
CLEVA CRETE takes a different, more advanced approach to waterproofing. Instead of simply blocking moisture pathways or relying on a surface-level solution, CLEVA CRETE works within the concrete itself to prevent capillary formation. Capillaries are tiny channels that form within the concrete as it cures, and they are one of the primary ways moisture can penetrate concrete. By disrupting the formation of these capillaries, CLEVA CRETE ensures that the concrete remains impervious to water, making it far more effective at resisting moisture ingress over time.
This process works by altering the internal structure of the concrete, densifying it, and reducing its permeability. The result is long-lasting waterproofing that doesn’t rely on the external application of a membrane, nor does it rely on crystalline formations that do not 100% block moisture movement. The water-tight structure formed by CLEVA CRETE is intrinsic to the concrete itself, meaning there’s no risk of damage from external factors like cracking, surface wear, or mechanical impact.
Advantages of CLEVA CRETE
Superior Shrinkage Control: Concrete shrinkage during curing can lead to cracks, which in turn can compromise the structural integrity and waterproofing of the concrete. CLEVA CRETE’s 842 series of admixtures significantly reduce shrinkage, preventing these cracks from forming in the first place.
Cost-Effective: The initial cost of CLEVA CRETE may seem higher, as an internal curing technology, there’s no need to choose an external curing application. CLEVA CRETE accelerates the curing process, reducing wait times for subsequent stages of the project. This means faster progression, fewer delays, and an overall more efficient construction timeline, ultimately reducing project downtime and improving long-term cost-effectiveness.
Environmental Safety: CLEVA CRETE is designed with environmental sustainability in mind. Its formulations are free from any harmful chemicals, and is produced with all Australian components, making it a safer choice for both workers and the environment.
The Benefits Over Topical Waterproofing Membranes
The traditional method of applying a topical waterproofing membrane, often referred to as the “spray and pray” method, involves spraying a chemical coating over the surface of the concrete. While this may work in the short term, external membranes are highly susceptible to physical damage and wear, which can occur during construction or due to environmental conditions.
CLEVA CRETE’s admixtures, however, are integrated into the concrete matrix, eliminating the need for any additional surface treatment. This creates a more durable, permanent solution that can withstand the rigors of time and the environment. External membranes often require reapplication over the life of a building, but with CLEVA CRETE, the concrete remains watertight for the entire lifespan of the structure.
Why Choose CLEVA CRETE for Concrete Admixtures in Australia?
Choosing the right admixture for your concrete can make all the difference when it comes to ensuring the longevity and performance of your building projects. CLEVA CRETE offers a superior solution compared to crystalline technology and external waterproofing membranes. Its ability to prevent capillary formation within the concrete means that moisture ingress is eliminated, and the concrete durability remains far beyond the expected service life on the concrete.
With CLEVA CRETE, you can avoid the drawbacks of traditional methods, such as the risk of membrane failure or the short-term benefits of crystalline technology. Whether you’re a concreter, builder, engineer, or architect, CLEVA CRETE offers a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable solution that ensures your structures remain watertight and durable for years to come. Backed by proven performance and trusted across a wide range of Australian projects, CLEVA CRETE gives you confidence from the ground up.
