Hydrobit Sbw
Elastomeric SBS Modified Water Based Bituminous Waterproofing Membrane
HYDROBIT SBW is a high-build, water-based elastomeric waterproofing membrane formulated with modified bitumen, Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) copolymers, and water as a carrier. It cures to form a seamless, highly flexible, and continuous monolithic membrane that adheres strongly to a wide range of substrates, including concrete, cement blocks, wood, plaster, masonry, asphalt coatings, and existing roofing felts. HYDROBIT SBW is designed for superior waterproofing protection for building foundations, kitchen and toilet floors, facades, and roofs. Its excellent flexibility and adhesion ensure long-lasting performance, while its water-based formulation makes it safer and easier to apply compared to solvent-based systems.
Technical data:
- Color/Appearance : Dark brown liquid
- Service Temperature : -10°C to 85°C
- Drying time : 4 hours at 35°C
- Overcoating time : 14 hours at 35°C
- Application Temperature : 5°C to 55°C
- Coverage : 1.15 kg per 1 m² @ 1 mm thickness
- Packaging : 20 liter pail and 200 liter drum
How to Apply Hydrobit Sbw
Hydrobit SBW is a single-component, ready-to-use liquid membrane applied in two coats by roller, trowel, brush or spray machine.
- Prepare the substrate. Concrete must be fully cured, dry and free from dust, oil, curing agent residues and other contaminants. Patch voids and honeycombs with MATEX concrete repair products and let the patch cure. Clean metal surfaces of paint, oil and rust by sand blasting or mechanical preparation to bright metal, then wipe clean.
- Treat cracks and corners. Cover non-moving cracks under 1.0 mm with a 1.0 mm thick strip of Hydrobit SBW extending 50 mm on both sides. Form a 45° coving fillet at parapets, columns and pipe penetrations with Lavarep F40, then apply a 1 mm reinforcing strip of Hydrobit SBW extending 150 mm on both sides of the coving.
- Prime if needed. Good quality concrete normally does not need priming. On porous surfaces, prime with Hydrobit SBW thinned with 20% water to avoid blisters from trapped air. When joining to an application more than 48 hours old, prime the interface with Hydrobit SBW diluted with 10% water.
- Mix. Hydrobit SBW is supplied ready to use. Shake the barrel well only to remix any settled material.
- Apply two coats. Apply two coats to reach a dry film thickness of 1.5 mm. By roller or brush, apply the first coat at 1.0 kg/m², then apply the second coat at the same rate after the first has cured, preferably at 90° to the first. Reinforce cracks, joints and areas around pipes and projections by embedding woven fiberglass mesh strips between the two coats.
- Prepare for tiling (optional). If tiles will be fixed onto the membrane, broadcast clean silica sand into the final coat while it is still wet to give a mechanical key. Apply tile adhesive only after the membrane has fully cured.
- Protect the membrane. Do not leave the membrane exposed for long periods. Once cured, cover it with protection sheets or screed mortar. Do not leave it exposed on metal surfaces, as it will soften and crack in high temperatures.
- Clean tools. Clean all tools with clean water before the product hardens.
Summary of the method in the Hydrobit Sbw Technical Data Sheet. Always follow the full TDS on site.
Standards & Test Methods
| Standard | Title | Referenced for |
| BS 6949 | Specification for bitumen-based coatings for cold application, excluding use in contact with potable water | Bitumen-based coatings for the protection of concrete (TDS states the product conforms) |
| ASTM D2939 | Standard Test Methods for Emulsified Bitumens Used as Protective Coatings | Emulsified bitumen protective coatings; resistance to water: Pass |
Standards and test methods as referenced in the Hydrobit Sbw Technical Data Sheet. Values in the TDS are typical laboratory results under standard conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the coverage rate of Hydrobit SBW?
The TDS gives a coverage of 1.15 kg per square meter per coat for 1 mm thickness. For roller or brush application it specifies 1.0 kg/m² per coat, with two coats recommended to reach a 1.5 mm dry film thickness.
What surfaces can Hydrobit SBW be applied to?
It can be applied to concrete, blocks, brick, corrugated sheets and asbestos, and adheres to plaster, masonry, bituminous roofing felts, metal and asphalt coatings. It should not be left exposed on metal surfaces such as zinc or steel, as it softens and cracks in high temperatures.
What is the drying and overcoating time of Hydrobit SBW?
The TDS lists a drying time of 4 hours at 35°C and an overcoating time of 14 hours at 35°C. Apply the second coat after the first coat has cured.
Can Hydrobit SBW be applied on damp surfaces?
Yes. It may be applied to damp but not wet surfaces. In hot, dry weather the TDS suggests dampening the surface to assist application.
What is the shelf life and packaging of Hydrobit SBW?
It is supplied in 20 liter pails and 200 liter metallic drums. Shelf life is 12 months from production date in unopened original packing, stored dry and away from direct sunlight.