Repel the Rain: Your Guide to Water Repellents
Water is the source of all life, water plays a huge part in our day to day lives, as well as the lives it helps to create on our planet. But that isn’t just limited to us, fungus and mould also require moisture to thrive.
But for people, mould and fungus is not ideal for our health or wellbeing, which is why it is best to keep them far away. But how do you do that without controlling the weather? Well, this is where water repellents come in.
Whether you are an established tradesman, or a homeowner attempting some simple DIY, and everything in-between and beyond, Sealants and Tools Direct are here to provide you with the quality products you require, at the best prices.
Our range is extensive, we aim to provide you with almost anything you need to make your house, or someone else’s, the best possible home. Our range of products include, but are not limited to, Abrasives & Glass Paper, building products, carpet, and surface protection, plumbing, roofing & guttering products, tools, and equipment, and so much more.
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What is a water-repellent? What does it do?
A water-repellent can come in many forms. But in regard to what we supply, it is a liquid. This liquid can be applied to surfaces and make them completely waterproof, or hydrophobic, or give it hydrophobic qualities. This makes water completely unable to touch anything that is covered by the water-repellent.
Water can touch the water-repellent itself, but it quickly moves from that surface. This makes it ideal for surfaces you’d want to keep dry, such as wooden decking, bricks and other outdoor features.
What happens if there is no water-repellent?
If water-repellent is not used, you can expect the more porous surfaces to let water through them, which over time, mould, and fungus can grow on the surfaces in question. This can not only be a health hazard, as they can make the floor more slippery, but mould is also known to contribute to health issues.
Additionally, mould and fungus can spread, and if you don’t be careful, it can easily enter your home.
Is mould and fungus the same thing?
Not exactly, mould is a type of fungus. The difference between them is on a cellular level. Mould is always a multi-celled organism, whereas fungus can be multi or single-celled.
What happens if mould spreads?
If mould spreads into your home, and is left untreated, you can expect the following issues…
- Your home will smell of mould.
- The mould will spread over the surfaces of your home, making them damp.
- Anyone with mould allergies, or existing health issues, may find themselves becoming ill as a result of the mould exposure.
- Mould can damage the structural integrity of certain areas of your home.
- You may experience breathing issues, rashes, or other unexplained health phenomena.
- It will reduce the value of your home.
How can I stop mould?
Stopping mould from the outside would involve using a water-repellent. Though, stopping mould in your home can be done through a variety of methods, the following methods work best against mould when used in conjunction.
- Purchase or upgrade extractor fans or install MHVR systems.
- Clean any mould you may find with mould treatment products.
- Have a ventilation routine, which can be as simple as opening windows in multiple rooms of your home for around 20 minutes daily.
- Do not keep anything in your home that already has mould on it.
If mould has spread extensively in your home, and no self-treatment methods are working, it is best to call a mould treatment company. This is a last resort and should be done if you’re struggling to see any progress in mould removal.
How to use water repellents
Water repellents are extremely simple to apply. Here are the rules you need to follow, regardless of the surface it will be applied on.
- Do not apply the repellent during rain.
- Ensure the surface is dry, free from dust and other debris.
- Make sure there is no water coming out from the surface itself.
- Simply apply the repellent with a brush, roller or via garden spray.
- Allow the repellent to dry for the time allotted.
And just as easy as that, your surfaces will be repelling water for the foreseeable future.
What’s the alternative to water repellents?
In terms of outdoor use, the only alternative is to build a canopy, or an elaborate drainage system to prevent rain from falling onto the surface in question. This is obviously a far more expensive endeavour, which is why water-repellent is an appealing and extremely simple option.
Repel the rain: Your guide to water repellents
When it comes to choosing water repellents, Sealants and Tools Direct has a wide range to choose from. Some of which can be used inside your home, and outside too. We will share some of our options with you below. However, you’re more than welcome to have a look at our whole range here.
Alpha Chem Cromar Solvent External Water Seal High Performance Repellent Sealer 25Litre MXW-601 – £57.67 (Not including VAT)
This large capacity water-repellent is ideal for wood, concrete, and bricked surfaces. This solvent based repellent penetrates deep into the surface, guaranteeing a long-lasting effect of repelling against water.
In addition, this product does dry faster and can be applied to the following surfaces
- Bricks
- Stone (Not natural stone)
- Render
- Masonry Surfaces
- Wood
And much more. Click here for the full product details.
Out And About Water Proof Proofing Fabric Protector Spray FM019 – £3.63 (Not including VAT)
This unique spray provides the benefits of a hydrophobic surface to your clothes or other outdoor gear such as tents. This can prove to be invaluable, especially with the amount of rain present in England.
Simply spray on the surface of your jacket etc and go about your day as usual!
Please note that not all fabrics may be appropriate for this product, please check the instruction manual before applying it.
You can view the full product details here
Ronseal One Coat Damp Seal White Paint 2.5 Litre – £27.91 (Not including VAT)
This water repellent can be used inside your home, on damp surfaces. Before usage, make sure the cause of damp is first addressed. Its application allows trapped moisture to escape, after which it dries and can be painted over.
This is ideal for anyone who has dealt with the cause of damp in their home and trying to permanently remove any inclination that it existed. This product can future-proof your home, as long as any potential mould causing issues aren’t left for extensive periods of time.
Purchase water repellents today
Sealants and Tools Direct is the one-stop shop for anyone within the trade, or for those looking to conduct their own DIY, and everyone in-between and beyond. We encourage anyone with any questions about products they are interested in, or already purchased from us, to get in contact if you have any questions.
We endeavour to not only provide the right products for you, but also provide the best guidance possible. Furthermore, we hope to provided everything you need to repel the rain, with our guide to water repellents.
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The Old Cider Works
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