Lava 20 liquid rubber coating is a revolutionary product that provides a long-lasting and durable solution for flat roof applications. Whether you’re dealing with a leaking roof, sealing a balcony, or looking to waterproof a wet room, Lava 20 is up to the task. In this blog post, we’ll explore the correct application process for new and existing roofs.
Applying Lava 20 is straightforward if you follow these steps:
Begin the waterproofing process by meticulously filling all joints with PU Mastic. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and uniform surface, which is essential for the subsequent application of Lava 20. Joints, especially in areas prone to water exposure like wet rooms and roofing valleys, can be weak points where water might penetrate if not properly sealed.
To start, ensure the surface is clean and free from any debris, dust, or old sealant. Using a caulking gun, apply a generous bead of PU Mastic along all the joints, including those between tiles, around fixtures, and at any seams or gaps. PU Mastic is highly flexible and durable, making it an excellent choice for areas that might experience movement or thermal expansion.
After applying the mastic, use a putty knife or a similar tool to scrape it smooth. This not only helps in achieving a uniform surface but also ensures that the mastic fills the entire joint without any air pockets or voids. The smooth finish is critical as it provides a continuous base for the Lava 20 coating, ensuring that there are no interruptions or weaknesses in the waterproof barrier.
Allow the PU Mastic to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Curing time can vary, but it’s important to let it set fully before proceeding to the next step. This curing process ensures that the mastic has bonded properly to the surface and will perform effectively as part of the waterproofing system.
By taking the time to properly fill and smooth all joints with PU Mastic, you lay a solid foundation for the application of Lava 20. This attention to detail helps in creating a seamless, durable waterproof barrier that will effectively protect against water ingress and extend the lifespan of the protected area.
After ensuring all joints are filled and smoothed with PU Mastic, the next crucial step is to prime the entire area that you plan to coat with Lava 20. Priming is essential as it enhances the adhesion of the Lava 20 liquid rubber coating, ensuring a robust and durable bond to the substrate.
Lava 20 Primer is a versatile product designed to enhance the adhesion of Lava 20 liquid rubber coating on a wide range of substrates. Whether you are working with metal, concrete, wood, tiles, or other common building materials, Lava 20 Primer ensures a strong, uniform bond. Its advanced formulation penetrates and prepares the surface, creating an optimal foundation for the coating.
Begin by making sure that the surface is dry and free from any dirt, grease, or dust that could interfere with adhesion. A clean surface allows the primer to bond more effectively, ensuring a strong and uniform application. Use a mild detergent or a specialised cleaner if necessary, and allow the area to dry completely before proceeding.
Apply the primer evenly across the entire surface using a brush, roller, or sprayer, depending on the size and accessibility of the area. Ensure that the primer covers all areas, including edges and corners, to avoid any weak spots that could compromise the waterproofing system. Pay special attention to areas around joints, seams, and any intricate details that require thorough coverage.
Allow the primer to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Drying times can vary, so it’s important to follow the recommended duration to ensure the primer has set properly. This drying period is typically 10 to 15 minutes and allowing it to dry is crucial for achieving maximum adhesion between the surface and the Lava 20 coating.
Once the primer is fully dry, inspect the surface to ensure an even application. The primed surface should appear uniform without any blotches or uncoated spots. This priming layer not only enhances adhesion but also helps in providing a smooth base, ensuring that the Lava 20 liquid rubber coating adheres uniformly and performs optimally.
By priming the entire area, you significantly improve the effectiveness and longevity of the Lava 20 coating. This step ensures that the liquid rubber forms a strong, cohesive bond with the substrate, providing superior waterproofing and protection. Proper priming sets the stage for the seamless application of Lava 20, ensuring that your waterproofing project is both successful and long-lasting.
When working on new OSB (Oriented Strand Board) or plywood roofs, reinforcing joints is crucial to ensure a durable and watertight seal. Applying a 100mm polyester tape between two coats of Lava 20 on all joints significantly enhances the structural integrity and waterproofing capability of the roof.
Start by ensuring that all joints are properly filled and primed, as previously described. Once the primer is dry, apply a narrow strip of Lava 20 liquid rubber paint directly over the joints. This strip should be slightly wider than the 100mm polyester tape to provide adequate coverage. Use a brush or narrow roller to apply the coating evenly along the length of the joint, ensuring a generous application to fill any minor gaps and create a smooth base for the tape.
Before the narrow strip of Lava 20 dries, place the 100mm polyester tape directly onto the joint. Centre the tape over the seam, extending evenly on both sides to cover the joint adequately. Press the tape into the wet coating, ensuring it adheres firmly without any wrinkles or air bubbles. This creates a reinforced barrier that adds strength and flexibility to the joint, accommodating any movement or expansion in the wood panels.
Allow the narrow strip of Lava 20 and the polyester tape to set but not dry completely. Apply another strip of Lava 20 over the taped joints using a brush or narrow roller. This top strip should be applied evenly to cover the polyester tape completely ensuring a smooth, seamless and durable finish.
The combination of the narrow strip of Lava 20, polyester tape, and top coat strip creates a multi-layered barrier that significantly adds strength to the joints, preventing cracks and leaks that could occur due to thermal expansion, contraction, or structural movement.
By following this method, you ensure that all joints on new OSB or plywood roofs are effectively reinforced and protected. This approach maximises the longevity and performance of the Lava 20 coating, providing reliable and long-lasting protection against water ingress and environmental damage.
To ensure a robust and durable waterproofing solution, it is essential to apply Lava 20 in a manner that achieves a 2.5 to 3mm thick coating. This thickness is best achieved by applying two layers of the product. Additionally, on existing torch-on or asphalt roofs, incorporating a layer of fibreglass matting between the coats significantly enhances the strength and longevity of the overall rubber coating.
First Layer Application:
Begin by ensuring the surface is clean, dry, and free from any debris or old sealants that could interfere with adhesion. Apply the first layer of Lava 20 using a brush or roller, spreading the product evenly across the surface. Aim for a uniform coverage that begins to build up the necessary thickness. This initial layer should be generous but controlled, ensuring it fills any minor imperfections and creates a smooth base for subsequent layers.
Fibreglass Matting Reinforcement:
For existing torch-on or asphalt roofs, lay out a layer of fibreglass matting over the first coat of Lava 20 while it is still wet. This matting serves as a reinforcement, adding significant strength to the rubber coating. Carefully position the fibreglass matting so that it covers the entire surface uniformly, avoiding any wrinkles or air pockets. Press the matting gently into the wet coating to ensure full adhesion. The fibreglass matting integrates into the Lava 20, providing an extra layer of durability and preventing cracks or splits that could occur over time.
Drying and Curing:
Allow the first layer of Lava 20, along with the embedded fibreglass matting, to dry completely. The drying time will depend on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, so refer to the product guidelines for specific curing times. It is crucial that the first layer is fully cured before applying the second layer to ensure optimal bonding and performance.
Second Layer Application:
Once the first layer is completely dry, apply the second layer of Lava 20 over the entire surface. This layer will cover the fibreglass matting and build up the coating to the desired 3mm thickness. Use a brush or roller to spread the product evenly, ensuring consistent coverage and a smooth finish. The second layer should blend seamlessly with the first, creating a uniform and continuous membrane that effectively seals and protects the roof. It is recommended that the second coat of Lava 20 is applied within 48 hours of the first coat application so that the two coats can cure together as one homogeneous coat.
Final Inspection:
After the second layer has been applied, allow the coating to cure fully. Once dry, inspect the surface to ensure a uniform 3mm thick coverage without any gaps or thin spots. The combination of the two layers of Lava 20 and the fibreglass matting creates a highly durable and resilient waterproof barrier that can withstand environmental stressors and provide long-lasting protection.
By following this method, you ensure that your torch-on or asphalt roof is effectively reinforced and waterproofed. The two-layer application process, combined with the strength-enhancing fibreglass matting, maximises the performance and longevity of the Lava 20 coating, providing reliable protection against water ingress and environmental damage
Lava 20 liquid rubber coating offers a plethora of benefits, making it an excellent choice for various waterproofing needs. Its durability, ease of application, and resistance to extreme conditions make it a go-to solution for both residential and commercial projects.
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of Lava 20 for yourself, chat with one of our experts today. They’ll guide you through the process and help you get the most out of this innovative product.
