FAQs

Liquid Rubber Preparation

How should I prepare the area before applying Liquid Rubber?

Ensure the surface is dry, free of dirt, debris, oil, grease, coal, tar, efflorescence, flaking paint, silicone, solvent materials or other contaminants.

As with all waterproofing membranes, the surface must be dry and free of anything that could adversely affect adhesion - if you apply the product correctly it WILL do the job.

Wire brush or if needed high-pressure water blast should be used to thoroughly clean all surfaces prior to application if any of the above conditions exist.

Surface should be free of all mould, mildew or any other living organism and COMPLETELY DRY.

Mildew and similar growths can be killed with 1 part household bleach to 2 parts water, followed by a thorough rinse with clean water.

All surfaces must then be allowed to THOROUGHLY DRY before proceeding with application.

Smooth surfaces such as glass, st-steel, plastics, etc. should be abraded or etched beforehand. In some cases a primer may be needed.

If joints, corners, upturns and downturns or gaps need pre filling, the sealant ( usually polyurethane or acrylic fillers) must be completely cured first or the gases from the sealant curing may cause harm to membrane.

Is it necessary to wear protective equipment while using Liquid Rubber?

No, Liquid Rubber being water based and containing no VOC'S it is not flammable nor is it corrosive.

Liquid Rubber contains no harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds (VOC'S).

What do I do with joins and seams?

See the Three Stage method of Liquid Rubber prep areas.

What is the Three Stage Method?

1. Liquid Rubber & Geo-Textile Bandage: Coat the surface with approx. 1 mm Liquid Rubber. Then coat one side of the geo-textile bandage & embed the coated side into the Liquid Rubber.  Smooth the surface allowing no ripples or gaps.

2. Coat the exposed geo-textile with another 1 mm of Liquid Rubber. 

3.Allow curing approx. 24 hours before adding another coat (can be thicker coat).

General Information About Liquid Rubber

What is Liquid Rubber?

Liquid Rubber is an environmentally friendly waterproofing membrane and anti corrosion product designed for a wide range of applications.

What applications are suitable for Liquid Rubber?

Liquid Rubber is an excellent choice for roof maintenance, roof restoration, waterproofing foundations, retaining walls, gutter repair, shower liners, decks, patios, fences, planter boxes, ponds, waterfalls, waste containment, barn roofs, silos, docks, piers, boat hulls, dams, commercial steel and built up roofs.

Because of the unique characteristics of Liquid Rubber, here are just some ideas:

- Mobile home/caravan 

- Roof repair, leaking gutters, box gutters

- Shower and balcony waterproofing

- Rust prevention and many more applications

- Ponds, water featuresRetaining walls, foundationsFarm tanks, water throughs

Is Liquid Rubber hazardous?

No, Liquid Rubber being water based and containing no VOC'S it is not flammable nor is it corrosive.

Liquid Rubber contains no harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds (VOC'S).

Can animal troughs be lined with Liquid Rubber?

Yes, Liquid rubber is environmentally friendly and will not harm humans, animals or plant life.

What colours does Liquid Rubber come in?

Liquid Rubber comes in black.However there is our WHITE THERMO TOP COAT that is manufactured to complement LR i.e has many of the same unique properties and bonds beautifully to a Liquid Rubber base coat.

This is a great 2 step system for roofs - apply one coat of  black LR,  allow to dry (about a day) and then apply 2 coats of the Thermo Top Coat which can be easily tinted any color.

How long will Liquid Rubber last?

Liquid Rubber will last for years without cracking, peeling or losing any of its strength or sealing properties.

Liquid Rubber has been used in North America & Europe for over 40 years.

There are many roofs, structures etc. that have had Liquid Rubber for over 30 years.

Do I have to use it all at one time?

No, it can be resealed in its air tight container.

What is the shelf life of Liquid Rubber?

Unused Liquid Rubber will last over 6 months if BUCKET REMAINS TIGHTLY SEALED WHEN NOT IN USE.

Tip- place a piece of cling wrap or plastic over the unused liquid membrane inside the bucket then seal it up - this will prolong the remaining material longer.

How do I store Liquid Rubber?

- Liquid Rubber is a non-flammable liquid and does not present any storage or transportation hazards.

-Store all Liquid Rubber in a cool dry space over 5°C

- DO NOT ALLOW PRODUCT TO FREEZE

Will Liquid Rubber dry out, crack or peel?

NO, LR has excellent longevity and will not dry out, crack or peel - remains flexible and pliable with age.

Will the sun affect Liquid Rubber?

No, the chemistry of LR is such that its UV resistance is excellent.

Will salt water affect Liquid Rubber?

NO,  LR has excellent longevity and will not dry out, crack or peel - remains flexible and pliable with age.

What chemicals will affect Liquid Rubber?

Liquid rubber resists most chemicals.

Liquid Rubber a bitumen-based product and is susceptible to hydrocarbons like gas and oils. Please refer to the chemical resistant chart in approvals and certifications.

Can I use Liquid Rubber on metal?

Used to protect ferrous metal structures subjected to water or chemically aggressive environments.

Applications include storage and process tanks, piping and structural features in; mining and ore facilities, fertilizer plants, water treatment plants, desalination plants, chemical processing facilities, pulp mills, power plants.

What will it adhere to?

Liquid Rubber will adhere to most surfaces such as: wood, metal, tile, concrete, masonry, fabric, glass, plastic, aluminium, porcelain, dry wall, rubber, cement, vinyl and just about any other surface.

Can it go over rusted metal?

Yes, lightly rusted metal. Saves on costs associated with sand blasting.

Will Liquid Rubber bond to ICF's (Insulated Concrete Forms)?

Yes, it’s a much quicker and efficient way of providing a seamless waterproof membrane than other methods such as peel and stick. There are no solvents in Liquid Rubber that will eat away the foam.

What does Liquid Rubber not stick to or cannot be used on?

Coal Tar, Silicone, Solvent based materials.

If applying on timber, do I need to replace any timber work?

No. Unless it's rotten or water damaged.

Can I use Liquid Rubber on freshly poured concrete (green)?

No, chemical reactions in the concrete must not be interrupted for approximately 3 weeks - concrete needs to "cure."

Placing any waterproof membrane on "green" concrete will effect the concrete’s strength and integrity.

How can I return Liquid Rubber?

Contact Liquid Rubber Shop during business hours or send an email to [email protected] with video/photos of the item clearly identifying the problem.

Customer pays the return shipping and include a copy of the receipt/invoice with the goods.

Refunds issued only when we can't make good the item. Or we cannot replace it. We do not offer credit for change of mind.

What can I use Liquid Rubber on?

Liquid rubber stands out as a highly versatile and effective sealing solution for a variety of applications. Renowned for its exceptional adhesive qualities, it is compatible with a diverse range of materials:

Concrete: Its strong adherence to concrete makes it an ideal choice for sealing tasks involving concrete roofs, water tanks, retaining walls, and other similar concrete structures.

Metal: Liquid rubber forms a robust bond with metal surfaces, including steel, aluminum, and galvanized materials. This property renders it perfect for applications like sealing metal roofs, gutters, flashings, water tanks, silos, and other metal-based components.

Masonry: This sealant also adheres efficiently to masonry surfaces, encompassing bricks, stones, and blocks. Its use is well-suited for sealing operations on masonry walls, chimneys, and foundations.

Wood: Its effectiveness in bonding with wood surfaces makes it a suitable option for sealing wooden decks, fence posts, and other wooden structures.

Bitumen: Liquid rubber's compatibility with bitumen surfaces, which are commonly found in roads, pavements, flat roofs, and parking lots, ensures a dependable sealing solution for these areas.

Fiberglass and Non-porous Surfaces: When dealing with surfaces such as fiberglass, glass, plastics, and certain tile types, some preparatory work might be necessary before application.

Is liquid rubber sealant appropriate for use with drinking water and in confined spaces?

Indeed, liquid rubber sealant is suitable for both applications. Its formulation lacks Volatile Organic Compounds (V.O.C.s), ensuring its safety for use in confined environments.

Moreover, it meets the requirements of the Australian Standard AS4020 for potable water, making it a trusted choice for sealing in major water reservoirs nationwide.

How long does it take for liquid rubber to dry?

Liquid rubber should be given ample time to dry completely before adding any extra layers. Generally, the drying period is around 24-48 hours for each millimetre at a temperature of 24 degrees Celsius, provided the area is well-ventilated.

How should rust be treated?

It's recommended to address any rusted areas with a water-based rust converter before proceeding with the application of liquid rubber for sealing.

How many coats are required?

When applying liquid rubber, the emphasis should be on attaining the required thickness, rather than the count of coats. Usually, a minimum of two layers is recommended to achieve a final Wet Film Thickness of 1mm, equivalent to 1kg per square meter.

For particular applications, such as water tank repairs, up to 2kg per square meter might be advised. For detailed guidance and tailored recommendations for your specific project, please feel free to contact us.

How do I fill gaps?

Before applying liquid rubber, it's crucial to avoid using silicone or any other new gap filler or sealant. These might contain slow-release solvents that could negatively impact the liquid rubber membrane. Instead, fill any gaps with Liquid Rubber Rubber Caulk and use the Geo Fabric method for bridging.

If you find existing silicone or polyurethane sealants that are peeling or lifting, they should be removed to ensure a solid surface for coating. For small amounts of sealant that can't be completely removed, treat them as gaps and bridge over them using Geo Fabric, following the guidelines provided in our application videos.

What preparation is required before applying Liquid Rubber?

Effective waterproofing requires thorough preparation. Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of dust, particles, and chemicals. Remove any old, loose, or flaky coatings.

Pressure washing is recommended, followed by allowing the surface to dry completely. Over anything that remains after washing, Liquid Rubber can be applied.

If applying Liquid Rubber Membrane on new concrete, wait 28 days for complete drying and curing to prevent outgassing issues.

What should I do with leftover Liquid Rubber?

If stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, your bucket of liquid rubber can last up to a year. The longevity depends on the size of the bucket and the quantity of the remaining product.

How do I clean up?

One of the notable features of liquid rubber is its strong adhesion to almost any surface, so it's important to avoid getting it on unwanted areas. If liquid rubber gets on your skin, using an old rag and baby oil is an effective removal method.

Rub the baby oil onto your skin and then wipe it off with the rag, repeating until the liquid rubber is completely removed. For cleaning surfaces, similar methods involving petroleum or solvent-type products can be used. However, it's advisable to contact us first before attempting to remove liquid rubber.

What should be avoided when using liquid rubber?

Liquid rubber is incompatible with hydrocarbons, solvents, and petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and oil-based products. Regular contact with these materials on the liquid rubber membrane can lead to issues. For specific advice related to your particular application, please contact us.

Liquid Rubber Coverage

How much coverage will I get from a bucket of Liquid Rubber?

Product coverage will vary greatly depending on the surface i.e. old concrete is very porous and will soak up a lot  of the first coat of Liquid Rubber than other surfaces.

Liquid Rubber will go further on surfaces like metal & fiberglass.

As a guide- approx 8.3m2 of coverage from a 15lt bucket in two coats.

As a guide- approx 5.5m2 of coverage from a 10lt bucket in two coats.

As a guide- approx  2-3m2 of coverage from a 4lt bucket in two coats.

We advise extra thicknesses i.e. three coats - for project that will be permanently holding water -  ponds, aquariums, water features & tanks, etc.

How thick should I build up my final membrane?

The final cured waterproof membrane of Liquid Rubber Brush/Roll On should be 1.5 to 2 mm (60-80 dry mls.)

For tanks, ponds & areas of permanent “ponding” water - Generally 3 coats will be required to build the final membrane up to 2 mm.

Can I build my final membrane all at once?

Too much Liquid Rubber Brush/Roll On material will extend the curing time and create a skin on top, possibly preventing the uncured portion from curing resulting in a membrane that is not waterproof.

It is better to use more thin coats than one thick application.

Liquid Rubber Application

What do I use to apply Liquid Rubber?

Liquid Rubber application does not require special equipment for small domestic type jobs.

Brushes, roller, trowel and squeegees are all effective ways to apply LR.

Rubber gloves are a good idea to reduce clean up as well.

Should I stir Liquid Rubber?

Mix well before use.

Stirring can be done with clean stick, paint stirrer, or a slow speed drill with a helical mixer.

What should I use to clean up?

While the product is wet it can be safely washed off in cold water (does not harm the environment).

Mineral Turpentine or as more often used water based engine degreaser which washes off under water.

Coconut and baby oil will remove the dry product ( if you get any on your face, etc - it's kinder than the aforementioned).

What temperature can I apply Liquid Rubber?

Liquid Rubber is water based and therefore must be applied above +5 Celsius degrees.

Do not allow material to freeze.

Can Liquid Rubber be applied on a vertical surface?

Yes Liquid Rubber can be applied on vertical walls and overhead.

Can I build my final membrane all at once?

Too much Liquid Rubber will extend the curing time and create a skin on top, possibly preventing the uncured portion from curing resulting in a membrane that is not waterproof.

How thick should I build up my final membrane?

The final cured waterproof membrane of LR should be approx 2mm.

For water features, ponds & tanks Generally 3 coats will be required to build the final membrane to 2 mm.

Avoid building up too much product at one time as this can cause cracking.

What can cause blisters?

Small blisters occur from time to time because of trapped water under the membrane which should cure out over time. If large blisters occur, there may be a bigger moisture issue coming from the substrate.

Can I spray Liquid Rubber?

Liquid Rubber can only be sprayed by using a high quality dedicated spray equipment - this is not a spray gun used for general spray painting.

NB: Large projects and complex surfaces should be applied by F.E.W WATERPROOFING – they are Australian Certified Liquid Rubber Applicators. PHONE 03 881 2 2918

Liquid Rubber Curing Time

How long does it take to dry?

Dry time depends on the temperature, humidity and thickness of the coating.

However, Liquid Rubber will usually “touch dry” within 2 to 3 hours and in 24 hours fully cure and also gets stronger over time.

How long does it take for Liquid Rubber to fully cure?

You will notice the product is touch dry within 2-3 hours, however the Liquid Rubber is still going through a very important process called “curing” which may take one to several days to complete.

Curing is the process where the rubber becomes a single flexible membrane.

Once cured Liquid Rubber can contain water on a continuous basis. This process can take between 5-7 days in warm weather or longer if moisture is held within.

If the substrate becomes damp from behind the membrane (i.e underground concrete, ponds surrounded by damp soil) this will greatly extend the curing process. DO NOT fill a pond, water feature, tank etc. until the curing process is completed.

If “active” water is trying to push through ( hydrostatic pressure) a wet membrane – it will not cure.

Blistering can occur if (water) vapour is trapped in substrate (more so when sun or heat is applied and creates water vapour- trying to "get out"). Allow blisters to dissipate over time- repair if holes occur or cut out blisters - allow to dry out and re-apply Liquid Rubber over the patched area.

After the membrane has thoroughly cured, inspect for cracks & out gassing holes (blisters) or any surface irregularities that may need to be repaired. To effect any repair- Geo-textile Bandage is used.

Can I buy this in a retail store?

NO – Liquid Rubber is not available in retail stores.

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