FAQ's
Active WaterBars
1Why use a waterbar?
Waterproof concrete creates a waterproof barrier within the mass of the concrete; however, this is not likely to seal the day / construction joints, therefore, something needs to be done at this intersection.
2Why use a Static waterbar?
A Static waterbar's primary role is to place a tortuous path in the line of the water ingress. However, Manorteq Static Waterbars are more technical than just placing an obstacle in the way. Depending on the specification of the Manorteq Static Waterbar, it will either adhere to the concrete, swell against the concrete, or create permanent formwork for the concrete, saving time and cost of other trades.
3Why use a hydrophilic (Active) waterbar rather than a Static one?
A hydrophilic waterbar, either bentonite or synthetic rubber, does more than just place an obstacle in the way. When water touches it, it expands and creates an internal pressure against the concrete. This stops the water migrating through the void that has been created by concrete shrinkage at the construction/day joint.
4Why use HydroBar Original rather than HydroBar Evo?
- Bentonite is a tried and tested method that has been used with the Xypex waterproofing system.
- Bentonite becomes fibrous as it swells, it can "reach out" and fill fissures and bleed tracks in the concrete aiding the waterproofing
- It is physically bigger and therefore it provides a natural physical barrier prior to the swelling being activated.
- More options in the way it is installed.
5Why use HydroBar Evo rather than HydroBar Original?
- It is significantly lighter making it easier to:
- install overhead
- hold its form - it will not sag under its own weight in heat.
- ship - it's 83% lighter
- It is more malleable, making it easier to thread between rebar etc.
- The pressure it places on the concrete internally is more.
6Can I just place a HydroBar on the concrete or loosely tack it in place?
No. All HydroBar needs to be fixed securely to stop it moving or becoming dislodged when concrete is placed on it.
7Can I place a HydroBar anywhere?
Almost. However there needs to be enough concrete cover to retain the HydroBar at pressure. Please refer to the Technical Data Sheet for more information.
8Will the products interfere with the Xypex waterproofing system?
No. All Manorteq ancillary products are developed and selected to integrate seamlessly with the Xypex waterproofing system, as well as others.
9What is the preferred way to fit HydroBar Original?
Fixing Wire and nails - Please refer to the Technical Data Sheet.
10What is the prefered way to fit HydroBar Evo?
Fixing Glue - Please refer to the Technical Data Sheet.
11What is the preferred way to fit HydroBar Evo?
Fixing Glue - Please refer to the Technical Data Sheet.
12If the concrete surface is uneven, can I use HydroBar Evo?
Yes. The concrete should be clean and as flat as possible. However, if the surface is undulating, Manorteq Fixing Glue can be applied to the surface providing it is clean and free of loose material. It is imperative that the glue is in full contact with the concrete surface and the HydroBar Evo to ensure a successful application. NO gaps are acceptable.
If Fixing Wire is used, SynMastic MUST be used to fill the voids under the HydroBar Evo for the full length of the application. Again, NO gaps are acceptable.
13If I use the Active waterbar system, do I have to only use this on the project?
No. It integrates seamlessly with the WaterBar Rigid System.
Static WaterBars
1Why use a waterbar?
Waterproof concrete creates a waterproof barrier within the mass of the concrete; however, this is not likely to seal the day / construction joints, therefore, something needs to be done at this intersection.
2Why use a Static waterbar?
A static waterbar's primary role is to place a tortuous path in the line of the water ingress. However, Manorteq Static Waterbars are more technical than just placing an obstacle in the way. Depending on the specification of the Manorteq Static Waterbar, it will either adhere to the concrete, swell against the concrete, or create permanent formwork for the concrete, saving time and cost of other trades.
3Why use a Static waterbar rather than a hydrophilic (Active) one?
A Static waterbar has many additional benefits other than just stopping water infiltration by placing an obstacle in the way (please see product pages). From a waterproofing perspective, it also binds to the concrete (bitumen) or swells against the concrete to seal (bentonite) - it must be noted the bentonite layer is significantly thinner than the HydroBar Original, therefore exerts less force.
4Can I just place a WaterBar Rigid on the reinforced steel mat?
No. All waterbar products need to be fixed securely to stop them moving or becoming dislodged when concrete is placed.
5Can I place a WaterBar Rigid anywhere?
Yes, but you must use the correct element in the correct place. Please refer to product pages.
6Will the products interfere with the Xypex waterproofing system?
No. All Manorteq ancillary products are developed and selected to integrate seamlessly with the Xypex waterproofing system, as well as others.
7Can I fix WaterBar Rigid to metal sheet piles?
No, you would have to use a HydroBar and link it together to create a complete sealed system.
8If I use the Static System, do I have to only use this on the project?
No. It integrates seamlessly with the HydroBar Active system.
Tie-Bolt System
FormPlug
1It is very tight to hammer in, how can this be made easier?
Dip the rubber part in clean water momentarily, this will allow the synthetic rubber part to slide in to the sleeve as though it has been lubricated.
2What size will it fit?
As standard, it will fit an internal diameter of 22 mm.
3Will the products interfere with the Xypex waterproofing system?
No. All Manorteq ancillary products are developed and selected to integrate seamlessly with the Xypex waterproofing system, as well as others.
4Does the sleeve need to be removed?
No. It should be used in conjunction with the FormRing.
5What is Manorteq FormPlug used for?
FormPlug is used for the watertight sealing of hollow formwork spacers after the removal of formwork tie bolts. It completes the waterproofing of concrete structures by preventing water ingress through spacer holes.
6What type of spacer/sleeve is Manorteq FormPlug suitable for?
Our FormPlug is suitable for both PVC and steel formwork spacers with a diameter of 22 mm.
7How does the FormPlug work?
Manorteq FormPlug consists of:
- an impact-proof, pressure-resistant core that secures the FormPlug in place, and
- a hydrophilic swellable polymer cap that expands when in contact with water, creating a permanent watertight seal
8Is Manorteq FormPlug completely waterproof?
Yes, our Manorteq FormPlug provides 100% waterproof sealing and is resistant to hydrostatic pressure up to 6 bar (limit of the test).
9Does FormPlug require finishing or additional treatment after installation?
No. Once installed, no finishing, sealing mortar, or after-treatment is required.
10How is the FormPlug installed?
Installation is quick and simple:
- Remove the formwork bolt and associated components from the spacer hole
- Clean any other debris from the hole
- Install the Manorteq FormPlug into the spacer/sleeve manually
- Hammer FormPlug into place, ensuring the FormPlug is secured firmly in the tie-bolt sleeve
Only a hammer is required.
11What water pressure can the FormPlug withstand?
Manorteq FormPlug is pressure resistant up to 6 bar, making it suitable for basements, retaining walls, tunnels, and other water-exposed concrete structures.
12How much does the polymer cap of the FormPlug expand?
The swelling capacity depends on the water type:
- Fresh water: up to 500%
- Concrete water: up to 400%
- Salt water: approximately 150%
13Is FormPlug chemically resistant?
Yes. The product is resistant to contact with a wide range of chemicals. For specific chemical exposure, please contact your local Manorteq representative.
14How should FormPlug be stored?
- Store in a dry location, protected from moisture and rain
- Keep clear of the ground
- Protect from frost
15Is the FormPlug compatible with other Manorteq waterproofing systems?
Yes. FormPlug is commonly used alongside Manorteq systems such as FormRing, HydroBar, Original WaterBar, and WaterBar Rigid System, as part of a complete waterproofing solution.
FormRing
1It’s hard to slide the FormRing on the sleeve. What can I do?
Dip in clean water momentarily, this will allow the rubber to slide on to the sleeve as though it has been lubricated.
2What size will it fit?
As standard, it will fit an external diameter of 24 mm to 30 mm. The ring stretches.
3Will the products interfere with the Xypex waterproofing system
No. All Manorteq ancillary products are developed and selected to integrate seamlessly with the Xypex waterproofing system, as well as others.
4Does the sleeve need to be removed?
No. This product can be used without removing the sleeve.
5What is Manorteq FormRing used for?
FormRing is an external watertight sealing ring used to prevent water ingress along the outside of formwork spacers or tie bolt sleeves in concrete structures.
6How does the FormRing differ from the FormPlug?
Manorteq FormRing seals water on the outside of the spacer or sleeve, while FormPlug seals the inside of hollow spacers. For full protection, FormRing and FormPlug are recommended together as a complete waterproofing solution.
7What material is the FormRing made from?
Our FormRing is manufactured from hydrophilic, water-swellable synthetic rubber, the same material as the Manorteq HydroBar Evo, which expands when in contact with water to create a permanent seal.
8How does the FormRing stop water penetration?
When water comes into contact with the FormRing, the synthetic rubber swells and closes any gaps around the spacer or sleeve created be concrete shrinkage, preventing water from passing through the concrete.
9Where should the FormRing be installed?
FormRing should be installed:
- In the middle and over the outside of the formwork spacer, and
- With a minimum concrete cover of 100 mm.
Correct positioning is essential for effective waterproofing.
10Which spacer/sleeve sizes is the FormRing compatible with?
Manorteq FormRing is compatible with spacers with an external diameter of 24–30 mm.
Due to its soft and elastic composition, one FormRing size can accommodate multiple spacer diameters.
11How is FormRing installed?
- Slide the FormRing onto the spacer/sleeve before concreting
- Position it centrally on the outside of the spacer (wetting the spacer can make installation easier)
- No special tools are required.
12How much does FormRing swell?
Swelling capacity depends on the type of water:
- Rainwater: up to 500%
- Concrete water: up to 400%
- Salt water: up to 200%
13What temperatures can the FormRing withstand?
FormRing has a service temperature range of –50 °C to +70 °C, making it suitable for a wide range of climatic conditions.
14What are the dimensions of FormRing?
- Inside diameter: 24 mm
- Outside diameter: 53.5 mm
- Width: 15 mm
15How should FormRing be stored?
- Store in a dry place, protected from rain and moisture
- Keep clear of the ground
- Protect from frost
Other products
SynMastic
1What is SynMastic used for?
It can be used:
- as a bed to fix HydroBar Original.
- to even out undulating concrete, so it fills all the gaps beneath the Hydrobar.
- to fill gaps behind HydroBar Original and HydroBar Evo, when it is needed in situations such as 90o bends.
Fixing Glue
1What is Fixing Glue used for?
It can be used as:
- the primary fixing solution for HydroBar Evo.
- an alternative solution for HydroBar Original on concrete.
- the primary solution for HydroBar Original on steel.
AquaRend Mortars
1What’s the difference between Manorteq AquaRend mortars and ‘normal’ mortars?
All Manorteq AquaRend mortars are waterproof up to 50 meters hydrostatic head due to the Xypex Technology Inside.
2Why use AquaRend Thix and where can it be used?
Manorteq AquaRend Thix is a thixotropic render (holds its own weight) and as such is the most versatile version as it can be applied to vertical or overhead surfaces. It can also be used as a screed.
3Why use AquaRend Flow and where can it be used?
Manorteq AquaRend Flow is essentially a flowable version of the AquaRend Thix. The consistency of AquaRend Flow ensures it is self-levelling and should therefore only be used for flat horizontal surfaces.
4What’s the difference between AquaRend Fine and S-Fine?
The difference is two-fold.
1) the thickness, S-Fine can be applied as a much thinner layer than Fine.
2) the surface finish is finer/smoother with S-Fine. Please be aware, even though S-Fine contains the unique crystalline technology, it is not waterproof on its own. To be waterproof at this very fine thickness, it would have to be used in conjunction with Xypex Concentrate.
5What are the best AquaRend products to apply overhead?
Manorteq AquaRend Thix, Fine and S-Fine. All can be applied overhead however each product offers a different finish subject to the project requirements.
6What classification are the AquaRend mortars?
All Manorteq AquaRend renders are classified as an R3 mortar under the EN 1504-3 protocol.
7Can I apply paints/coatings onto Manorteq AquaRend mortars?
Yes, as long as the paint/coating is breathable.
8Can AquaRend mortars be used in chemical environments?
Yes, normally. Please refer to the data sheet or contact your Manorteq Technical Representative.
AquaRend Reinforcement
1Why use reinforcement?
Reinforcement increases bond strength to the substrate. It is normally recommended where the render is applied against negative side pressure.
2Why use Manorteq AquaRend Fix S?
Manorteq AquaRend Fix S is an easy to apply mesh To reinforce the bond strength of AquaRend Thix, Flow or Fine to the substrate to protect against hydrostatic pressure in non-aggressive conditions. Please refer to your Manorteq Technical Representative.
3Why use Manorteq AquaRend Fix B?
Manorteq AquaRend Fix B can be used in nearly all situations and has minimal limitations. It is especially useful where there is a chance of contamination where steel can corrode and cause further damage.
4Which Manorteq products can be used with AquaRend Fix S?
AquaRend reinforcement was developed for the full AquaRend range of products. However, if suitable to the application, it can be used with ReadyProof or other products.
5Which Manorteq products can be used with AquaRend Fix B?
AquaRend reinforcement was developed for the full AquaRend range of products. However, if suitable to the application, it can be used with ReadyProof or other products.
6Should I install reinforcement on the positive or negative side?
You can install reinforcement on either side. However, it is more likely to be required where the water pressure is from the negative side.
NonShrink Grouts
1What’s the difference between Manorteq NonShrink grouts and ‘normal’ grouts?
All Manorteq NonShrink grouts are waterproof and help with the continuity of crystalline waterproofing due to the Xypex Technology Inside, dealing with small voids such as anchors holes etc.
2Why use NonShrink Flow and where can it be used?
For use in restricted-access areas NonShrink Flow should be used on a horizontal application where the material needs to be applied as a liquid, such as under column plates or under machinery etc.
3Why use NonShrink Thix and where can it be used?
Manorteq NonShrink Thix should be used where the grout needs to hold its own weight or where access is easy.
4What is the compressive strength of the Manorteq NonShrink grouts?
NonShrink Flow and Thix have a compressive strength of 60 MPa @ 28 days when mixed in accordance with the relevant Technical Data Sheet.
5What is the workability of NonShrink grouts?
The workability for both NonShrink Thix and Flow is 50 - 60 minutes when mixed in accordance with the relevant Technical Data Sheet.
ReadyProof
1Why use ReadyProof?
Manorteq ReadyProof is a waterproof concrete specifically for applications where either small batches are required, for example boxouts, lift pits etc. or where truck loads are not available.
2What additional benefits does Manorteq ReadyProof have over other pre-bagged concretes?
Manorteq ReadyProof is a single-component, thixotropic concrete mix, pre-dosed with Xypex Technology Inside. In addition to this, the other advantages are that it is highly chemical resistant, has resistant against frost and fast strength gain.