CIM Industries Blog

There is a large misconception in the waterproofing industry that all cold fluid-applied waterproofing membranes are susceptible to osmotic blistering. But this is not the case. Over the years, costly waterproofing repairs have led to a lack of confidence in using cold fluid-applied waterproofing membranes in damp, wet, and immersion environments. Understanding what osmotic blistering is, knowing why it occurs, and choosing the correct product for each job will help minimize the potential for osmotic blisters.

Chevron raised the standards on cold fluid-applied waterproofing membrane applications when they introduced a urethane coating system for synthetic running tracks in the 1960s. Over several decades, this urethane technology morphed into a waterproof bridge deck membrane, now widely recognized as Chase Industrial Membranes (C.I.M. Industries), the leader in the industrial waterproofing market.

Identifying termination points and properly terminating waterproof coatings are two critical aspects of a waterproofing system’s long-term success. Whether you are applying the coating system to a roof, floor, tank, or fountain; in hot or cold climates; or to concrete, wood, steel, or any other construction materials, correctly terminating the waterproofing system is essential. 

Termination points are areas where the waterproofing membrane stops or is no longer applied.

Whether you are in the residential or commercial building industry or in the new construction or building maintenance business space, waterproofing is not something to be overlooked. Waterproofing systems work by creating physical barriers to water. They keep water out of places it doesn’t belong and in places where it does belong.

With many varieties of elastomeric coatings on the market, it should be no surprise that there are many different application methods to consider. So, how do you choose the best plan for your next project? 

This article will focus on polyurethane, cold, fluid-applied, elastomeric waterproofing coatings. These products can be hand-applied using a brush, roller, or squeegee or with specialized spray equipment. The application method is often predicated by project conditions that influence the contractor's ability to apply the material as a uniform coating at the required thickness.

It is critical that the appropriate amount of CIM Activator be mixed with the appropriate amount of CIM Premix. Therefore, each CIM product comes packaged with pre-measured quantities of Activator and Premix.

CIM 1000 Trowel Grade Cartridges are ideal for small applications such as penetrations, joints, cracks and many other small repairs. Cartridges are commonly used for adhesion test patches and repair of CIM coatings.

Cartridges may be partially used and re-sealed for future use, eliminating excess waste where only a small amount of CIM is needed.   

There's no avoiding the fact that concrete contains moisture, yet a critical component for successful adhesion of a coating system to a concrete substrate is having a dry substrate. Knowing how to test for moisture and addressing the conditions causing it are things all contractors should familiarize themselves with before applying coatings. Consulting with the coating manufacturer and reviewing the manufacturer's technical data sheets are excellent ways to gain this information. 

CIM coatings have two components CIM Premix and CIM Activator. Each container has a color-coded label in order to assist with identifying the appropriate combination of CIM Premix and CIM Activator. Learn how to select the right activator and premix. 

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Exterior balconies are more than just features on buildings; they are places to host guests, read good books, and enjoy the views. For some, balconies become the focal points of living spaces. People think of the comfort of their living spaces but rarely think about how the building envelope (the exterior skin that acts as a barrier against water, water vapor, air and temperature) works until there is a leak or draft. That same building envelope that creates cozy living rooms and warm sunrooms and beautiful balcony spaces doesn't just provide comfort; it also provides critical protection to the entire structure, ensuring a safe living environment.