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12

Efflock Hydrophobic Additive

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This concentrated, VOC-free additive provides bulk hydrophobic protection to cement-based materials, preventing efflorescence and damp.
Vendor: Efflock
SKU: EFFLOCK/20
Availability: In Stock
$1,550.00
$1,550.00
Prices do not include GST
Shipping & Delivery

Flat-rate shipping $17.95 + GST (metro and standard zones). Excludes remote/regional/high-cost postcodes and certain items (DG, oversized, long-length, or bagged products 15 kg+). If your order includes any of these, we will contact you to arrange additional freight charges. Online purchases only.

Use Efflock Hydrophobic Additive for: controlling efflorescence in screeds/adhesives/grouts, repelling water uptake in concrete and masonry, reducing call-backs from damp, picture framing and salt attack.

Efflock Hydrophobic Additive: A Technical Overview

Efflock is a water-based, VOC-free hydrophobic additive for cementitious systems. It creates a hydrophobic molecular structure within pores of cured concrete and mortars, dramatically reducing liquid water absorption while remaining vapour-permeable. Used in tile screeds (3:1 or 4:1 sand:cement), cement-based adhesives and grouts, renders, mortars and structural concrete, it helps prevent efflorescence, damp-related failures, picture framing and salt attack. Materials mixed with Efflock remain compatible with typical waterproofing membranes and finishes, supporting reliable adhesion and faster, drier builds across Australian climates.

Core Features & Specifications

  • Hydrophobic bulk impregnation within cementitious pores — reduces water ingress without blocking vapour movement.
  • Efflorescence control across screeds, adhesives and grouts — supports cleaner finishes and fewer call-backs.
  • Water-based, VOC-free, non-DG — easy handling and safer site logistics.
  • Compatible with membranes and finishes — normal adhesion maintained when used as directed.
  • Screed guidance — 3:1 or 4:1 sand:cement; compact well, wood-float, and damp cure as per best practice.
  • Dilution — typical 1:100 (additive:water) for most mixes; sealer use is 1:9 as a separate surface treatment.
  • Application temperature — install/cure between ~4 °C and 35 °C.
  • Pack sizes — 1 L, 5 L, 20 L; store sealed, dry, out of sun; typical shelf life at least 24 months.

The Efflock Hydrophobic Additive Advantage

  • Prevents damp-related failures — protects tiling systems from the substrate up for robust, repeatable outcomes.
  • Cleaner, more durable finishes — repels salt and contaminants to reduce staining, moss and maintenance.
  • On-site efficiency — reduces weather delays by repelling incidental rainwater during construction in exposed areas.
  • System flexibility — suitable across screeds, adhesives, grouts, renders and structural concrete for consistent performance.

Proactive Troubleshooting

Scenario: Screed mixed “wet” with variable sand moisture

Potential Outcome: Under-dosed additive and higher water content can lead to curling, slower drying and increased efflorescence risk.

Adheseal Best Practice: Use a screed mixer; dose Efflock neat per mixer capacity, then add only the water required. Compact thoroughly and damp cure.

Scenario: Rain exposure before grout/caulk

Potential Outcome: Water entering adhesive notches can delay hydrophobic function and introduce salts.

Adheseal Best Practice: Avoid rain exposure; if it occurs, vacuum out water from notches and allow full evaporation before grouting/caulking.

Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios

For Waterproofers (Specifier/Engineer): Balcony & wet-area screeds

The Professional's Challenge

Limiting efflorescence migration and damp beneath membranes while maintaining vapour permeability and adhesion.

The Adheseal Solution

Specify screed at 3:1–4:1 with Efflock dosed per mixer capacity. Wood-float, damp cure 7 days, then allow ~2 weeks dry/stabilise before membrane. Materials mixed with Efflock remain compatible with normal membrane adhesion.

Best Practice Note

Water-test screed at 24 h: strong beading indicates correct dosing. Rectify ponding on substrates before waterproofing.

For Tilers (On-site Applicator): Stone paving — picture framing control

The Professional's Challenge

Perimeter darkening and salt migration with low-porosity stones; need to protect joints and bedding without trapping moisture.

The Adheseal Solution

Use Efflock in bedding and grout (1:100 dilution for mixes). Keep joints full and flush; manage rain exposure pre-grout. Consider consistent treatment approach across the whole surface to avoid uneven absorption effects.

Best Practice Note

With sensitive stones, run site samples and observe after wetting/drying cycles. Follow adhesive maker guidance if pre-sealing.

For Bricklayers/Builders (Business Owner): Mortar durability & damp course support

The Professional's Challenge

Rising damp and salt attack in masonry; need cleaner joints and long-term appearance with minimal maintenance.

The Adheseal Solution

Add Efflock to mortar to create a hydrophobic matrix and effective joint-by-joint damp barrier. Protect early set from rain and manage cleaning with appropriate acid dilution.

Best Practice Note

Use Type GP cement; dose plasticisers sparingly. Protect cores/frogs from rain entry during build-up.

Frequently asked questions

Can Efflock prevent efflorescence on natural stone?

Efflock can minimise saturation in stone bedding and grout, but suitability for natural stone requires on-site testing. Stone porosity and mineral composition vary significantly, and Efflock may cause visible dry spots if not applied uniformly or if the stone is pre-sealed.

Does Efflock remove the need for a waterproofing membrane?

Efflock provides an excellent additional barrier to a waterproofing system and can negate the need for a secondary membrane for efflorescence control. However, primary waterproofing membranes should still be installed according to relevant standards and manufacturers' instructions for water ingress prevention.

What is the correct mixing ratio for Efflock?

For most applications like tile adhesive, grout, render, and topping, prepare gauging water at a 1:100 ratio of Efflock to clean tap water. For tile screed, add neat Efflock at 100ml per 100L mixer capacity, then add water to achieve desired consistency, accounting for moisture already in the sand.

Can Efflock be used in dark-coloured grout?

Efflock makes dark grouts hydrophobic to protect against secondary efflorescence. However, it does not assist with colour stability or prevent patchiness. Consider epoxy grout if colour consistency is a primary concern.

Applications and benefits

Where Efflock Hydrophobic Additive is used, what it delivers, and who uses it
Application Key benefit Primary trades
Tile screeds, adhesives, and grout Controls water absorption throughout the system, preventing efflorescence, cryptoflorescence, and damp. Can eliminate the need for a secondary efflorescence membrane, saving cost. Tilers, Waterproofers, Builders
Brickwork and stonemasonry mortar Provides a hydrophobic damp-proof course, preventing rising damp and salt attack in saline soils. Repels dirt and inhibits moss growth for a cleaner appearance. Masons, Bricklayers, Builders
Off-form concrete and concrete pavers Bulk impregnation protects against chloride ingress and freeze/thaw damage. Repels dirt and suppresses moss growth, enhancing long-term durability and appearance. Concreters, Paver manufacturers, Builders
Render and general cement-based materials Offers invisible, bulk hydrophobic protection, dramatically reducing water absorption without filling pores. Improves curing and remains permeable to vapour. Renderers, General Builders

Applying Efflock Hydrophobic Additive: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices

  1. Batching & Mixing

    Use Type GP cement. For most mixes, prepare gauging water at 1:100 (Efflock:water). For dry screeds with variable sand moisture, dose Efflock neat per mixer capacity, then add water to achieve workability.

    Screed (3:1–4:1)

    Measure additive neat based on mixer volume (e.g., 100 mL per 100 L). Mechanically mix to uniform dispersion.

    Adhesive/Grout/Mortar

    Use 1:100 gauging water. Observe manufacturer water demand; Efflock may reduce water required slightly.

    Timing: Avoid rain for ~24 h. Maintain 4–35 °C during early cure.
    Pro Tip: If screed drags or sticks to tools, reduce added water — Efflock improves workability.
  2. Placement & Finishing

    Compact screed thoroughly; wood-float to close. Achieve ≥90% adhesive coverage beneath tiles.

    Screed

    Damp cure 7 days; dry/stabilise ~2 weeks before tiling/membrane.

    Adhesive/Grout

    Protect from rain until joints are grouted and perimeter/expansion caulking completed.

    Timing: Water-test screed at ~24 h; expect visible beading if dosing was correct.
    Pro Tip: If rain enters adhesive notches, vacuum out and allow to evaporate fully before grouting.

Product limitations

  • Not for: Resisting head pressure under continuous water submersion. Efflock does not fill concrete pores.
  • Not for: Ensuring colour stability or preventing patchiness in dark-coloured cement-based grouts.
  • Use only with: Type GP cement. Avoid "Builders Cement" (Type GB) due to its contribution to efflorescence.
  • Weather restrictions: Do not apply if temperatures are below 4°C or above 35°C during installation and curing. Protect from rain for at least 12-24 hours after application.
  • Natural stone: Requires on-site testing for suitability due to varied porosity. Efflock may cause visible dry spots if not applied uniformly.
  • Latex additives: Compatible, but will delay the hydrophobic function of Efflock by approximately 6 days.

Safety and handling

Signal Word: Warning

Personal protective equipment

Wear splash-proof goggles and PVC or rubber gloves. For large quantities or heavy contamination, use Viton® gloves and coveralls. If an inhalation risk exists, wear a Type A (Organic vapour) respirator.

Ventilation

Use in well-ventilated areas. Where an inhalation risk exists, mechanical extraction ventilation is recommended to avoid exposure.

First aid

  • Eye contact: Flush continuously with running water for at least 15 minutes.
  • Inhalation: Remove from contaminated area. Apply artificial respiration if not breathing.
  • Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing and flush skin with running water until advised to stop by medical professional.
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Contact a Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26).

Storage and disposal

Store in tightly sealed original containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from incompatible substances, heat, and direct sunlight. Protect from temperatures below 0°C or above 45°C. Dispose of waste at an authorised chemical disposal facility.

Substrate guide

Proper substrate preparation and integration of Efflock are critical to prevent efflorescence, damp, and salt attack in cement-based materials.

Concrete substrates

Surface prep: Concrete must be sufficiently cured and aged to mitigate shrinkage. Rectify any negative fall or ponding areas with a bonded screed before waterproofing. If exposed to atmospheric salt, thoroughly rinse the substrate.

Primer: Not required. Efflock is added directly to the mix.

Tile screed and cement slurry

Surface prep: Ensure concrete substrates are cured and clean. For timber frame and cement sheet structures, ensure construction provides fall. If bonding screed to concrete, use a traditional cement slurry. Protect from early drying and rain exposure for 24 hours post-application.

Primer: Not required. Mix Efflock into the gauging water or add neat to the screed mix.

Brickwork and stonemasonry

Surface prep: Thoroughly rinse any substrate exposed to atmospheric salt. Clean any mortar smears or splashes mechanically before using acid for cleaning. Protect mortar from rain prior to initial set and for 12-24 hours after. Fill core holes in bricks flush with mortar.

Primer: Not required. Mix Efflock into the mortar mix.

Efflock Hydrophobic Additive Physical Properties

Efflock Hydrophobic Additive Physical Properties
Property Value
Appearance White Liquid
Odour Slight Odour
Flammability Class C2 Combustible
Flash Point > 96°C
Boiling Point 100°C
pH 8 (Approximately)
Solubility in Water Soluble
VOC Content VOC Free
Dilution Ratio (General) 1:100 (Efflock:Water)
Dilution Ratio (Screed) 100ml (neat) per 100L mixer capacity
Application Temperature Range 4°C to 35°C
Minimum Cure Before Rain Exposure 12-24 hours
Shelf Life At least 24 months (in original sealed containers)
Storage Temperature Range Above 0°C, below 45°C

Efflock Hydrophobic Additive - Use Cases

Here are some common examples on where Efflock Hydrophobic Additive used by our customers.

Tiling

External tiled area efflorescence

When laying tiles on balconies, patios, or roof decks, using cementitious screeds and tile adhesives.

Integrates into the mix to create a hydrophobic barrier, preventing unsightly efflorescence and damp ingress from the tile bed.

  • 1:100 dilution for cement mixes
  • Creates hydrophobic molecular structure
  • VOC free, water-based liquid
  • Reduces water absorption

Masonry

Mortar efflorescence and salt attack

Building brickwork or stonemasonry, especially in saline soils or where long-term clean appearance is critical.

Adds bulk hydrophobicity to mortar, preventing rising damp, salt attack, and cryptoflorescence, keeping masonry cleaner.

  • 1:100 dilution for mortar
  • Effective damp proof course (DPC)
  • Repels waterborne contaminants
  • Protects against freeze/thaw damage

Tiling

Bathroom tiling damp protection

Adding an extra barrier in bathroom or laundry tiling systems to combat efflorescence and promote drier wet areas.

Becomes an integral part of tile beds and adhesives, repelling water absorption and enhancing the overall waterproofing system.

  • 1:100 dilution for grout
  • Hydrophobic molecular structure
  • Compatible with tile adhesives
  • Promotes drier wet areas

Civil Construction

Enhance Concrete Durability

For structural concrete, pavers, or pre-cast blocks exposed to external weather, saline soils, or freeze/thaw cycles.

Bulk impregnation repels water and chloride ions, enhancing long-term durability by reducing salt attack, freeze/thaw damage, and moss growth.

  • Repels chloride ions
  • Protects against freeze/thaw
  • Suppresses moss growth
  • Invisible bulk impregnation

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