Technology has rapidly changed over the years from the time when mud and water were the only mixtures used to build to where we have an array of admixtures chemicals, solvents and sealants chemicals in use. Therefore, what are the available construction chemicals that one can use from foundation to finish?
According to a building contractor, he/she decides what can be used for your building and you may have less control because he is believed to be the expert in what they do. But, have you ever asked your self what is needed? Let's start with the foundation all the way up.
Foundation Stage
Weatherproofing solvents
After digging a foundation, you must treat your foundation just in case the area you are building is either prone to water damage and dampness. Weatherproof chemical protects the structure of the building. Examples are
Waterproofing chemicals and specialized admixtures for cement. Companies that deal with these types of chemicals and are in Kenya are
AkFix master solution,
BASF,
Jotun and many others. Most hardware in Kenya will have a variety of the above items you can visit
Startcore ventures Limited,
Elite tools in Nairobi if you need any.
When the foundation is done and a slab is laid down to ensure dampness is cured. This step is the most critical in the construction of the building. What comes next?
Concrete columns
Construction chemicals used at this stage are critical in ensuring concrete columns that support bricklaying. Contractors use different types of admixtures to ensure the concrete beam are be able to support what will be placed on the slab. Waterproofing coating chemicals that can be used are waterproofing cementitious chemical, Acrylic waterproofing Membranes etc.
Bricklaying, lintel and Roofing.
At this point, a picture of the building can be seen. Most used material apart from bricks, sand and cement are admixtures that are cementitious to help in waterproofing. Concrete sealant chemical that is used is in expansion gaps on the corners of the building is used to allow movement if any. There are different types of companies selling this product in Kenya with distributors spread across Nairobi:-
- AkFix Master solution - Concrete PU sealant P635
- Soudal - 40FC concrete grey
- SmartFix - Construction PU Sealant 1100
On top of the bricks laid after the desired height of the building is achieved the lintel is the next step. Its placed above the windows and doors to be able to support the weight that will be placed above it.
Roofing is always considered as a milestone in construction projected, the choice of roofing you chose is very important as it determines how a building looks like and adds beauty to a complete structure. Different types of roofing are used slab finish or iron sheet design. All this need to be treated with different chemicals that will ensure the roofing last the longest.
Electrical, plumbing, Exterior and internal finishing.
This is the most important part of your construction that is expensive, demanding and will need an expert contractor to ensure that the dream picture of your house is achieved by covering the rugged stones, the electrical and plumbing is done right.
On plumbing job construction chemicals to be used is Polyurethane Foam to cover all the opening done on the walls
Polyurethane Foam will be used also when fixing doors, windows and cabinets to ensure that no areas are left with an opening. Polyurethane foam is easy to use and save you a lot of costs when doing you finish. One can of 750ml will cover 3M squared in your construction. Common Foam in the market are from the following companies
- AkFix Master solutions - Multipurpose PU foam 805
- Sparko USA - Construction foam
- Soudal - General purpose foam
- Crown Paints - USPro foam
Tiling has become a must in every construction due to the durability of the floor once done compared to cement floors that easily cracked over time. Therefore, tile adhesive chemicals and granite/marble adhesives will be key component in this stage. Wall putty chemicals for ensuring even wall texture and consistency, silicone sealant in sinks and glass adhesion to frames will be used.
Specialized silicones for mounting cabinets, window glazing curtaining and in fashion fancy gypsum ceiling installation will need adhesive sealants like Fix All, Structural glazing silicone, High tack or express montage adhesive glues that is strong and you will not need nails. Fire-rated sealants and thermal and acoustic Polyurethane foam are now in the Kenyan market and if one needs this item on their project they can purchase them in some high-end outlets dealing with construction items like Startcore Ventures Limited and Elite tools.
Painting is the last step before you request a truck to move your belonging from your old house into your new house. With a variety of paints to chose from, technology has come of age to ensure that the paints we use today don't just serve the purpose of adding colour to structures but all other features. The features include waterproofing, fire-rated paints, anti-corrosion and many more other properties. It's important to choose paints that have chemicals engineering value-added for increased functionality.
Conclusion
It's clear to see, construction chemicals are used in all parts of any given project. Therefore, it's important to have up to date knowledge of what is being used in the construction industry. Although not all construction chemicals that are in the market have proved to be 100% effective in the work they are supposed to do, we can appreciate the work that construction chemical engineers have contributed in products that have eased and saved costs of construction developers. Now you can be able to make a well-informed decision on what to put in your project before you start.
Your additional views are welcomed.
Comments
Post a Comment