The photo below shows a flood test of an Efflock tile screed 1 metre x 1 metre wide. Around the perimeter is a 20mm aluminium angle stuck to the surface with silicone, and filled with water.
This test was made independently by Don's Tiles in Narellan (near Sydney). At the time this photo was taken, the screed had been flooded for 48 hours (notice on the right hand side one small leak coming from the sealant).
Don's Tiles now include Efflock into their bathroom installations because it makes good sense. When an average bathroom costs around $20,000, $30 worth of Efflock is cheap insurance against the ever-present potential for waterproofing failure.
Why is waterproofing failure so common?
For a waterproofing membrane to work, it has to be absolutely 100% perfect. A tiny pinhole caused by human error in the haste of construction, such as a wayward brush stroke, a defect in a welded sheet, building movement or accidental damage can be a conduit for future problems caused by water damage. Without Efflock, the pore structure of ordinary tile screed, adhesive and grout is perfect to promote water absorption and capillary action which places the performance of a waterproofing membrane under sustained pressure.
In a bathroom, Efflock added to the screed, adhesive and grout provides:
- A primary water barrier to help keep water above the tiles.
- Prevents capillary action or 'wicking' of tile screed beyond a shower enclosure.
- Protects against efflorescence.
- Ideal for screed containing sub-floor heating, which through the course of evaporation, can send moisture back up through the tiles to cause efflorescence and excess humidity, which in turn can lead to mould within a house.
- Reduces in-grained mould in cement based grout.
For more information, get in touch via our Contact Us page.