TECHNOLOGY
Spray-applied polyurea. From substrate to finish.
The polyurea membrane is part of the waterproofing system. Good solution design takes into account what is underneath the coating, the conditions during application and the loads in subsequent operation.
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What is polyurea spraying?
Polyurea is used to form waterproofing membranes and protective coatings. At HOWLER, we apply it using a hot spray process. Specialist equipment conditions and supplies two components as required by the system manufacturer, and the material is sprayed onto the prepared surface.
The coating can follow the substrate geometry, including flat surfaces, curves and correctly detailed junctions. It does not, however, correct structural defects or replace necessary substrate repairs. Its properties depend on the selected product, the build-up of layers and the quality of application.
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Substrate, primer, membrane, finish.
Assessing the conditions
The type and condition of the substrate, existing layers, humidity and method of use are important. We also establish requirements regarding contact with water, exposure to chemicals, solar radiation and mechanical loads.
Surface preparation
Preparation includes cleaning the surface, removing unsound layers and making necessary repairs. The preparation method and primer depend on the substrate and the system documentation. Adhesion, moisture and compatibility between materials all matter. Active moisture ingress or delamination must be assessed before applying the membrane.
Details and application
Joints, movement joints, drains, service penetrations and coating terminations require appropriate detailing. The method is selected before spraying. Application parameters and the thickness of each layer are specified in the chosen system's documentation.
Inspection and use
We select the finish for the intended use of the surface: exposure to sunlight, traffic or contact with liquids. The selected system determines requirements for UV protection, texture and any wearing courses. Inspection requirements and the time before filling or loading are established for each facility and its application conditions.
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The right method for each location.
Polyurea membranes
Spray coating used as a waterproofing or protective element. The choice of product and accompanying layers depends on the intended use of the surface.
Hand-applied coatings and compounds
These solutions are used where hand application suits the task, access conditions or detail design. They are not automatically interchangeable with every spray-applied system.
Injection sealing
To seal identified leaks and repair cracks and fissures, a suitable material is injected into the substrate. Whether injection is appropriate, and which type to use, is assessed after establishing the leak path, the nature of the damage and the structure's service conditions. Injection sealing and surface waterproofing can serve different purposes.
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Equipment for demanding application work.
We use GRACO equipment and materials from manufacturers including SIKA, MAPEI and SYNTHESIA. We select materials for the task, taking account of their intended use and current technical documentation.
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Questions about polyurea.
Is every polyurea membrane suitable for every facility?
No. The system is selected according to the surface, purpose and conditions of use. Requirements regarding primer layers, finishing and details are also important.
Can polyurea be applied over existing waterproofing?
The possibility of leaving the existing layers requires assessing their condition, adhesion and compatibility with the new system. The mere presence of an old coating does not guarantee the possibility of spraying.
When can the surface be reused?
The time depends on the material, layer build-up, application conditions and type of loading. It is established for each project.
What determines the price of polyurea waterproofing?
Pricing takes account of the area and geometry of the facility, the substrate condition, repairs, the number of details and the selected layer build-up. Access and site logistics also matter. For an assessment, we need a description of the task, location, dimensions and photographs; technical documentation helps define the scope.
Does the coating provide thermal insulation?
Waterproofing and thermal insulation have different functions. The polyurea membrane should not be described as a substitute for a designed thermal insulation layer.
Let's select a solution for your facility