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Silcor 580: A Product Overview
Silcor 580 is a premium two-part, elastomeric polyurethane membrane built for projects where failure isn't an option. Designed for heavy-duty applications like car parks, podiums, and plant rooms, it delivers a tough, resilient barrier that handles structural movement without splitting. With a 1:1 mix ratio by weight, it cures fast—even in low humidity—so you can get on with the job.
This membrane is rated Class III for high extensibility, meaning it stretches over 700% to bridge cracks and accommodate thermal expansion. It’s low odour and low VOC (under 35g/L), making it safe for occupied sites. Whether you're sealing a balcony or a high-traffic deck, Silcor 580 gives you predictable performance and a seamless finish that protects your reputation and your margins.
>700%
Elongation at Break
Key Features of Silcor 580
- High Extensibility: >700% elongation bridges non-structural shrinkage cracks, keeping the seal intact when the building moves.
- Rapid Cure Chemistry: Chemical cure mechanism ensures fast through-cure even in low humidity, preventing washout risks.
- Seamless Application: Liquid applied monolith eliminates vulnerable joins and seams where leaks typically start.
- Trafficable System: Compatible with Silcor Top Coat 80 for heavy foot and light vehicle traffic areas.
- Wide Service Temperature: Performs from -40°C to +100°C, handling extreme Australian weather shifts without degrading.
- Low VOC: Less than 35g/L content reduces site EH&S issues and allows use in sensitive environments.
The Silcor 580 Advantage
- Risk Removal: Fully bonded system prevents water tracking between the membrane and substrate, isolating any potential damage.
- Versatile Installation: Semi self-levelling properties flow out to a smooth finish on horizontal falls, saving labour time on tooling.
- Proven Compliance: Meets AS 4654.1-2012 for external waterproofing and AS/NZS 4858-2004 for internal wet areas.
- Smart Chemistry: Free from bitumen or tar, so it won't bleed or stain porous surfaces.
Adheseal tips for using Silcor 580
Scenario: Incorrect Mixing Ratio
Potential Outcome: The product fails to cure properly, remaining tacky or weak, leading to complete removal and rework.
Adheseal Best Practice: Always weigh components 1:1 by weight, never by volume. Mix the Polyol first, then combine. Correct ratio guarantees the cure.
Scenario: Applying to Damp Substrates
Potential Outcome: Moisture trapped in concrete causes blistering and delamination as it tries to escape.
Adheseal Best Practice: Ensure concrete moisture is <5%. If between 5.0% and 6.9%, you must prime with Epocote F100W. Test first, prime right, and avoid blisters.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Waterproofers: Podium & Deck Installation
The Professional's Challenge
Large external decks are high-risk zones. You need a membrane that can handle thermal movement, resist rain quickly, and pass strict AS 4654.2 compliance inspections.
The Adheseal Solution
Silcor 580's Class III rating ensures it flexes with the structure. Apply a minimum 1.5mm DFT for non-traffic areas. For heavy traffic, build it up to 3.0mm DFT and top coat with Silcor Top Coat 80. It becomes rain resistant in roughly 3 hours, protecting your schedule.
Best Practice Note
Always install 15mm bond breaker fillets using Silcor LM PU Sealant at wall/floor junctions. Success means a watertight handover with zero leakage liability.
For Builders: Plant Room Floors
The Professional's Challenge
Plant rooms face vibration, heavy equipment loads, and potential chemical spills. Standard acrylic membranes often fail under these mechanical stresses.
The Adheseal Solution
Silcor 580 cures to a tough Shore A 80 hardness. When combined with a wear coat (sand broadcast) and Silcor Top Coat 80, it creates an impact-resistant, non-slip floor that withstands maintenance traffic and machinery vibration.
Best Practice Note
Terminate the membrane into drainage outlets correctly. Ensure the substrate has a 1:100 fall. A correctly laid floor protects the structure below from costly water damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Silcor 580 compliant with AS 4654 and AS 4858 standards?
Yes, Silcor 580 is certified as a Class III membrane under both AS 4654.1-2012 (external waterproofing) and AS/NZS 4858-2004 (internal wet areas). It meets high extensibility requirements (>700% elongation), ensuring it passes compliance checks for balconies, roofs, and wet areas when installed to the relevant Australian Standards.
Can I use Silcor 580 for vehicle or heavy foot traffic areas?
Yes, but it must be installed as part of a complete system with a wear coat and top coat. For heavy foot or light vehicle traffic, apply Silcor 580, broadcast with quartz sand, and seal with Silcor Top Coat 80. This protects the membrane from abrasion and provides necessary UV stability and slip resistance.
What is the mixing ratio and pot life for Silcor 580?
The mixing ratio is strictly 1:1 by weight (not volume) and the pot life is approximately 30 minutes at 23°C. You must weigh the Polyol and Iso components accurately before mixing. Once mixed, apply immediately as the product cures chemically; higher temperatures will reduce your working time.
Can I apply Silcor 580 to damp concrete?
Standard application requires a dry substrate (<5% moisture), but you can handle damp concrete (5.0% - 6.9%) by priming with Epocote F100W first. If the substrate is wet or holds water, do not apply. Correct priming prevents blistering and ensures strong adhesion to the concrete.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Car Park Decks & Stadiums | Resists heavy vehicle traffic and vibration | Waterproofers, Concreters |
| Podiums & Roof Decks | Seamless Class III elongation accommodates movement | Waterproofers, Builders |
| Green Roofs & Planters | Root resistant compatibility and rot proof | Landscapers, Waterproofers |
| Plant Room Floors | Chemical resistance and high shore hardness | Flooring Contractors |
| Internal Wet Areas | Low VOC (<35g/L) for safe indoor application | Tilers, Waterproofers |
Applying Silcor 580: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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1. Detailing & Bond Breakers
Before applying the main membrane, treat all internal corners, penetrations, and joints.
Fillet Installation
Install a 15mm x 15mm bond breaker fillet using Silcor LM PU Sealant to all internal corners. Allow to cure min 12 hours.
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2. Mixing
Correct mixing is critical for cure. Do not mix by volume.
1:1 Weight Ratio
Mix the Polyol (grey) first. Then weigh out Polyol and Iso (clear) in a strict 1:1 ratio by weight. Mix combined components for 3-5 minutes with a low-speed mechanical mixer avoiding air entrapment.
Timing: Pot life is approx 30 mins at 23°C. -
3. Membrane Application
Apply to primed surface within the primer recoat window.
Squeegee/Trowel Method
Use a 5mm notched squeegee or pin rake to spread the mix. This typically yields a 1.5mm cured thickness. Allow to self-level.
Roller Method
Apply in two cross-directional coats using a 10-14mm nap non-shedding roller.
Pro Tip: Check Wet Film Thickness (WFT) every 2m² using a gauge. Consistency now prevents thin spots and warranty issues later.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not for negative hydrostatic pressure applications.
Do not apply if rain is imminent or ambient humidity is above 85%.
Not recommended for untrained home use; professional installation required.
Must be top-coated for UV stability and trafficability.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear organic vapour respirator, chemical resistant rubber gloves, and safety goggles. Isocyanates can cause allergic reactions.
Ventilation Requirements
Use only outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. Avoid breathing vapours or spray mist.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical advice.
Skin:
Wash with plenty of soap and water. If irritation or rash occurs, get medical advice.
Inhaled:
Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. Call a POISON CENTER if breathing is difficult.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Contact a doctor immediately.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
Silcor 580 Application Guide
Concrete & Masonry
Surface Preparation
Substrate must be cured (min 14-28 days), dry (<5% moisture), and have compressive strength ≥20 MPa. Remove laitance, dust, and curing compounds via grinding or shot blasting. Fill blowholes with suitable repair mortar.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Use Silcor Primer BS for dry substrates. Use Epocote F100W for damp substrates (5.0-6.9% moisture).
Silcor Primer BS / Epocote F100WCompressed Fibre Cement (CFC) & Sheet
Surface Preparation
Ensure sheets are installed to manufacturer specs. Surface must be clean, dry, and free of sealers or acrylic primers. Joint detailing is critical.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Prime with a penetrating solvent-based primer for optimal adhesion.
Silcor Primer BSMetals (Steel, Aluminium, Copper)
Surface Preparation
Remove rust/oxidation. Roughen surface to SA 2.5 near white metal. Solvent wipe with xylene or MEK immediately before priming.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Prime within 30 minutes of preparation to prevent oxidation.
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