 |  |
Overview
Hycrete products make concrete waterproof, by reducing absorption of water and dissolved salts into the concrete and by forming a protective layer over reinforcing steel.
Built on a foundation of corporate and environmental responsibility, Hycrete takes ownership of innovating solutions to the biggest challenges of the world’s most widely used building material.
We believe that sustainable construction practices should go hand-in-hand with solutions that yield meaningful cost benefits, simplify and speed assembly, and create more durable structures. And our green concrete products deliver on that.
Contact Us to learn more about Hycrete.
Hycrete FAQs
- How does the Hycrete technology work?
- How does the Hycrete technology enhance protection from corrosion of steel reinforcement?
- How are “hydrophobic” products qualified?
- Do Hycrete admixtures wash out of concrete?
- Are there any disadvantages of using Hycrete admixtures?
- How do Hycrete products benefit me as a design professional, owner, contractor, ready mix producer, or manufacturer?
- What are the advantages of membrane-free waterproofing?
- How can Hycrete products make my building or structure more durable?
- How can using Hycrete’s products reduce my risk of water damage?
- How will using Hycrete admixtures save me time and money?
- How can I make sure my building won’t leak?
- Will you guarantee that Hycrete admixtures will work?
- How complicated is the design and construction of waterproofing with Hycrete admixtures?
- Can Hycrete admixtures be used in shotcrete or for difficult conditions such as uneven surfaces, penetrations, high water table, and salt water?
- What makes Hycrete admixtures environmentally intelligent?
- Does using Hycrete admixtures qualify for LEED points?
PRODUCTS – SELECTING AND SPECIFYING
- What is Hycrete System W?
- What happens if the concrete cracks?
- How do you address joints and penetrations?
- How does Hycrete System W differ from Hycrete W1000 and Hycrete W500?
- Which product is right for me?
- Do you have a surface-applied version of Hycrete waterproofing solutions?
MORTAR, CMU, BLOCK AND STUCCO PRODUCTS
PRODUCTS –PURCHASING AND INSTALLATION
- How much do Hycrete products cost?
- As a general contractor or owner, can I purchase Hycrete admixtures directly from the Company?
- Does Hycrete, Inc. provide guidance for concrete mix designs?
- Does Hycrete, Inc. provide drawings/specifications for each project?
- How are Hycrete admixtures added to the concrete?
- On the day of a pour, who may I expect to see from Hycrete, Inc. overseeing the process?
- Are Hycrete admixtures used in construction outside the United States?
APPLICATIONS – WHERE TO USE HYCRETE PRODUCTS
- When would I use Hycrete products?
- What are typical applications for Hycrete products?
- Are there any applications when I wouldn’t use Hycrete products?
- Does Hycrete, Inc. do residential work?
- Is it possible for me to purchase Hycrete admixtures for use in my own home?
ABOUT THE COMPANY / CONTACT US
- How long has Hycrete been around?
- I have additional questions about Hycrete admixtures, who should I contact?
What are Hycrete admixtures?
Hycrete admixtures integrally waterproof concrete and cementitious materials and help protect steel reinforcement from corrosion. Hycrete admixtures are water-based, low-odor, and Cradle-to-Cradle certified, meaning that Hycrete admixtures are environmentally friendly and may be recycled at the end of their useful lives.
HOW HYCRETE ADMIXTURES WORK
How does the Hycrete technology work?
Hycrete admixtures react with metals in the water, concrete, and steel reinforcement. From the reaction, a precipitate is formed where one end of the molecule has a long hydrocarbon chain. Like oil repels water, this precipitate fills the capillaries of the concrete, repelling water and shutting down capillary absorption. For more details, see How Hycrete Products Work
How does the Hycrete technology enhance protection from corrosion of steel reinforcement?
In two ways:
- Hycrete admixtures reduce water and chloride ion transport through concrete by blocking concrete pores. This blocking mechanism is a result of Hycrete’s reaction with the calcium within the cement creating an “oil-like” molecule that repels water (not simply enhancing density as with traditional integral waterproofing alternatives). Less water and fewer chlorides are able to reach steel reinforcement.
- Hycrete admixtures also react and bond with the rebar itself, forming a protective coating. Even in cases of cracked concrete where rebar is exposed, the Hycrete technology enhances corrosion protection.
For more details, see How Hycrete Products Work
PERFORMANCE
How are “hydrophobic” products qualified?
Concrete exhibiting less than 1% water absorption according to BSI (British Standards Institute) 1881-122 is classified as hydrophobic.
Do Hycrete admixtures wash out of concrete?
Hycrete admixtures stay in the concrete. When the concrete hardens, they turn from a liquid to a solid which is bonded to the concrete. The concrete protects the Hycrete material so it provides long-term waterproofing and corrosion inhibition performance.
Are there any disadvantages of using Hycrete admixtures?
Mixes incorporating Hycrete can be expected to have slightly lower compressive strengths compared to control mixes, generally in the 3% – 10% range, as a result of the “hydrophobizing” of the aggregate. This is compensated where needed by traditional means, such as the use of water reducers, increased cement, or lowering the W/C ratio (no more than 0.42 is recommended).
Trial batches should be performed and appropriate adjustments made to the mix design prior to use.
BENEFITS
How do Hycrete products benefit me as a design professional, owner, contractor, ready mix producer, or manufacturer?
Hycrete products provide unique benefits, which can be found in detail on dedicated web pages:
Design professionals: Architects and specification writers, Waterproofing consultants, Engineers
Owners: Building owners, Public works / DOTs
Contractors: General contractors – buildings, Public works / DOT contractors, Concrete contractors
Producers: Ready mix producers
Manufacturers: Precast manufacturers, Blocks and pavers manufacturers
What are the advantages of membrane-free waterproofing?
Hycrete System W can eliminate the need for external waterproofing membranes.
Hycrete’s integral waterproofing solutions reduce risk and increase profits to owners and contractors as a result of membrane elimination. Additional benefits include: shortened project schedules due to fewer man hours and reduced weather delays, reduced risk of leaks and repairs associated with moisture penetration, waterproof and corrosion protection at the time of placement, zero VOCs, improved jobsite safety, and expanded lay-down areas.
How can Hycrete products make my building or structure more durable?
When water gets into your concrete structure, not only does it cause leaks but it also may allow corrosion and weaken the structure. Hycrete admixtures protect the concrete in a number of ways: permeability reduction, protective layer around reinforcing steel, closing cracks, and superior corrosion inhibition. Learn more about increasing durability using Hycrete products.
How can using Hycrete’s products reduce my risk of water damage?
In two primary ways:
- Hycrete stands behind its System W waterproofing system by backing it with a performance warranty. The philosophy behind the Hycrete IntegraTek warranty is that “if it leaks, we fix it.” Also, because Hycrete is responsible for the waterproofing warranty, it ensures that its own employees are in place throughout the construction process. This guarantees waterproofing success.
- Even in instances where concrete is not cracked, water can permeate through concrete via capillary absorption. Hycrete’s waterproofing admixtures dramatically reduce water absorption in concrete, protecting building interiors from water damage. Hycrete’s corrosion inhibition admixtures reduce water absorption and also directly protect rebar. Because less water and fewer chlorides are allowed to enter the concrete, the concrete has enhanced durability.
How will using Hycrete admixtures save me time and money?
Using Hycrete waterproofing admixtures saves owners and contractors time and money compared with membrane waterproofing. Time savings are associated with not needing to install a membrane, reduced rain delays, and reduced delays from waiting for the concrete to dry. Because the waterproofing is integral, it is accomplished at the time of concrete placement. Hycrete waterproofing solutions are generally lower cost than membrane solutions, so there are also savings on the initial installation cost. In the long run, the durability of the solution leads to reduced water penetration and corrosion, and there is no need to reapply coatings. This means that repair and maintenance costs are reduced.
See case studies for examples of savings. Also see time savings and cost savings for more details, and use Hycrete’s calculator to find out how much you can save on your project.
For corrosion inhibition, Hycrete products offer superior long-term performance, so your structure lasts longer and repairs are reduced.
For mortar, CMUs, blocks, and stucco, Hycrete products reduce damage from water penetration and mold, and reduce adverse visual effects such as efflorescence and staining. Cleaning and repair costs are reduced.
How can I make sure my building won’t leak?
With Hycrete System W, you don’t just get waterproof concrete, you get waterproof construction. Our industry-leading service guides details and mix design and carries out site inspections to ensure watertight construction, and closes cracks that leak. Our IntegraTek warranty guarantees that if it leaks, we fix it.
Will you guarantee that Hycrete admixtures will work?
Yes, we will guarantee the absorption rate of concrete containing Hycrete products.
Hycrete System W uses the industry-leading IntegraTek Warranty.
Please contact us for details of warrantees for our other products.
How complicated is the design and construction of waterproofing with Hycrete admixtures?
Very simple. Simple design means that it’s easy to detail, and complicated details don’t get overlooked. Simple construction means that the details are easier to install and more likely to be installed right. This leads to lower costs and faster construction.
Can Hycrete admixtures be used in shotcrete or for difficult conditions such as uneven surfaces, penetrations, high water table, and salt water?
Yes. Hycrete products can protect concrete in any shape or size. See more details about how Hycrete products can be used in difficult conditions.
What makes Hycrete admixtures environmentally intelligent?
Hycrete products are certified under MBDC Cradle to Cradle protocol. Integral waterproofing eliminates exterior membranes or coatings, which are typically applied using high VOC primers/adhesives or made of petroleum-based substances. These membranes are often permanently bonded to concrete and prohibit recycling after concrete demolition. The concrete and membranes therefore go straight to landfill. Hycrete admixtures are environmentally benign and when mixed in concrete, do not detract from concrete’s existing sustainable characteristics.
You can access information on the Cradle to Cradle protocol at www.mbdc.com or www.c2ccertified.com. Learn more about Hycrete’s Cradle to Cradle characteristics and find out how using Hycrete products can help you with green construction.
Does using Hycrete admixtures qualify for LEED points?
Using Hycrete System W may earn an ID (Innovation in Design) point for membrane-free construction. Additionally, using any of Hycrete’s admixtures may help contribute to earning LEED points in several categories:
- MR 2.1 – Construction Waste Management
- MR 4.1/2 – Recycled Materials
- MR 5.1/2 – Sourced Locally Within 500 Miles
- ID – 2.5% of Building Materials Cradle to Cradle
PRODUCTS – SELECTING AND SPECIFYING
Does Hycrete offer AIA seminars and other training?
Yes. Hycrete offers an AIA seminar on Integral Waterproofing Solutions for Concrete – 1.0 hours HSW SD. Hycrete also offers training seminars for engineers, waterproofing consultants, owners, and contractors.
WATERPROOFING PRODUCTS
Hycrete System W offers waterproof construction, more than just waterproof concrete. It is composed of three components:
- Hycrete W1000
- Hycrete service (including construction details, site inspections to ensure watertight construction, and closing cracks that leak)
- Hycrete IntegraTek warranty – “If it leaks, we fix it”
What happens if the concrete cracks?
With Hycrete System W, Hycrete repairs any cracks that leak according to the terms of its performance warranty, IntegraTek. Repairs are typically performed by drilling and injecting an expansive polyurethane foam that expands in the presence of water and permanently seals cracks that are leaking. This closure service is included with Hycrete System W.
How do you address joints and penetrations?
Joints and penetrations are waterproofed using bentonite waterstops that swell when in contact with water. As a part of Hycrete System W, waterstop details may be included and provided to the contractor for installation.
How does Hycrete System W differ from Hycrete W1000 and Hycrete W500?
Hycrete System W includes a performance warranty as well as several field services to ensure that concrete construction is watertight. Hycrete W1000 and Hycrete W500 each includes a product warranty, with no or limited service support. See comparisons between the different Hycrete waterproofing products, and between Hycrete products and other waterproofing materials.
Which product is right for me?
The appropriate Hycrete product will depend on many factors, including: exposure to water, depth of water table, climate, the type of structure being built, among others. See applications to find products available for your project type. And contact your local Hycrete representative to discuss and understand the appropriate Hycrete product for your application.
Do you have a surface-applied version of Hycrete waterproofing solutions?
Hycrete does not offer a surface-applied version of its products.
CORROSION INHIBITION PRODUCTS
Hycrete X1000 is a dual-action corrosion inhibitor. It reduces the permeability of concrete, up to seven times better than control concrete. It also forms a protective layer on the surface of rebar. It increases the durability of concrete, lengthening the life of your structure.
CMU BLOCKS, PAVER, MORTAR, AND STUCCO PRODUCTS
Hycrete M1000 protects cementitious materials such as CMU blocks, pavers, mortar, and stucco. Ordinary cementitious materials absorb water and dissolved salts through a network of pores, leading to water damage, mold growth, and other unfavorable effects. Available in formulations, both liquid and dry, to fit the relevant application, Hycrete M1000 dramatically reduces absorption, keeping these products dry and water away from underlying structures.
GENERAL
How do I specify Hycrete products?
Specifications for all of Hycrete’s products are available for downloading. If you have questions regarding the Hycrete specifications please contact your local Hycrete representative.
Who usually specifies Hycrete products?
Waterproofing: Architects generally specify waterproofing, and engineers generally specify concrete. So specifying Hycrete waterproofing products may be a team undertaking. Specifications are available in a number of formats. Please contact us if you have any specification questions.
Corrosion inhibition products: Hycrete X1000 is generally specified by engineers
CMU blocks, pavers, mortar, and stucco: Hycrete M1000 is generally specified by architects.
PRODUCTS –PURCHASING AND INSTALLATION
How much do Hycrete products cost?
Please contact Hycrete, Inc. for detailed pricing. Hycrete System W is typically at par with or costs less than membranes on a square foot basis. Hycrete W500 and Hycrete W1000 deliver superior waterproofing performance compared to other integral admixtures for the same or lower cost. Hycrete X1000 has a similar cost to calcium nitrite technology with a superior performance. Hycrete M1000 life-cycle costs save money compared with the cost of unprotected CMU blocks, pavers, mortar and stucco.
As a general contractor or owner, can I purchase Hycrete admixtures directly from the Company?
Generally Hycrete is sold via concrete ready mix producers. Contact us with any direct sales requests.
Does Hycrete, Inc. provide guidance for concrete mix designs?
Yes, Hycrete will work to help develop mix designs that meet project specifications. However, the final mix design remains the responsibility of the ready mix producer.
Does Hycrete, Inc. provide drawings/specifications for each System W project?
Yes. Hycrete, Inc. prepares a custom set of drawings for each Hycrete System W project via Hycrete’s Technical Services Department.
How are Hycrete admixtures added to the concrete?
Hycrete admixtures are water-based liquids with low odor. They are added to the ready mix concrete load with the initial batch water. A pump system can be used, which simplifies dosing and ensures accuracy. Hycrete admixtures may also be added by hand using five gallon pails. Dosage is typically 1-2 gallons per cubic yard of concrete. See the mixing instructions and individual product data sheets for more details.
Will Hycrete admixtures delay or speed up the set of concrete, or make it difficult to work?
No – Hycrete admixtures are neutral to the plastic qualities of concrete. Subject to other admixtures, concrete will set at the usual rate and be easy to work and place.
On the day of a pour, who may I expect to see from Hycrete, Inc. overseeing the process?
In most instances for Hycrete System W, one or two Hycrete concrete technicians or managers may be stationed at the construction site to monitor placement. Find out more about Hycrete System W’s industry-leading service.
Are Hycrete admixtures used in construction outside the United States?
Hycrete, Inc. is currently operating in several international regions. Inquiries are welcome.
APPLICATIONS – WHERE TO USE HYCRETE PRODUCTS
When would I use Hycrete products?
In any instance where there is a chance of exposure to water or chlorides.
What are typical applications for Hycrete products?
Membrane-Free Waterproofing
Belt and Suspender Waterproofing
- Green Roofs
- Belt & Suspenders Waterproofing – when you want to be absolutely sure that there will be no leaks – using a membrane plus integral waterproofing
Temporary Waterproofing
Waterproofing Plus Corrosion Inhibition
Corrosion Inhibition
Decorative / Architectural Concrete
CMU Blocks, Pavers, and Mortar Cement
Please contact us to check whether your application is suitable if it isn’t listed above.
Are there any applications when I wouldn’t use Hycrete products?
Some applications are more optimal than others for use of Hycrete’s products. In order to qualify for an IntegraTek warranty as a party of Hycrete System W, Hycrete must review and approve project specific details. Please contact Technical Services if you have any questions.
Does Hycrete, Inc. do residential work?
Currently Hycrete, Inc. is focused on large projects demanding mission-critical subgrade, grade, and super grade water and corrosion protection. However, depending on the scope of project, residential work is considered on a case-by-case basis. In any instance materials can be ordered for residential use – see below.
Is it possible for me to purchase Hycrete admixtures for use in my own home?
Yes. Contact Hycrete or visit Green Depot to inquire about purchasing Hycrete admixtures for your home.
ABOUT THE COMPANY / CONTACT US
How long has Hycrete been around?
Testing on Hycrete materials started over 10 years ago, and the brand name has been used since 2003.
I have additional questions about Hycrete admixtures, who should I contact?
Please contact Hycrete, Inc. at:
462 Barell Avenue
Carlstadt, NJ 07072
PH. (201) 386-8110
Fax (201) 386-8155
Or use the contact us form.
