Bituminous paints are special paints used in construction for waterproofing, corrosion resistance, and damp proofing applications for different structural elements. It is made out of bitumen or coal tar dissolved in mineral spirit or naphtha, applied to structure either in liquid or semi-liquid form.
This article explains the essential properties and applications of bituminous paint in the construction industry.
Contents:
Properties of Bituminous Paint
The important properties of bituminous paints are:
- Bituminous paints can be modified using polyurethane or acrylic polymer materials to increase their durability and flexibility.
- Bituminous paints are alkaline-resistant.
- Bituminous paints have good adhesive properties to act as an excellent barrier against air and moisture penetration.
- Bituminous paint is strong, waterproof, durable, and can resist harsh manufacturing chemicals and UV light.
- Bituminous paint protects the surfaces from rusting.
- Bituminous paint is available in 1l, 2.5l, 5l, 25l and its coverage per liter is dependent on the porosity of the surface.
- The coverage of bituminous paint on metal and smooth surfaces is generally 10 sqm per liter.
- Bituminous paint is a ready-to-use product that does not require thinning and is applied using a brush or spray.
- They are economical, fast-drying, and easy to use.
Applications of Bituminous Paint
The primary applications of bituminous paint in the construction industry are:
- Bituminous paint is applied to substrates, iron, steel, metal structures, castings, asbestos cement sheeting, and structural concrete surfaces.
- Bituminous paint can be used to coat ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, and other construction materials that are exposed to marine environments.
- It is a flexible coating solution that can be applied below and above the ground.
Surface Preparation for Bituminous Paint
The performance of bituminous paint is dependent on how well the surface is prepared.
- Before the application of bituminous paint on any surface, it should be made sure that the surface is clean and dry. It must be free from dirt, grease, rust, or any other contaminants. In addition, existing or loose paints on the surface must be removed.
- Before painting metal surfaces, they must be cleaned thoroughly using a wire brush or sandpaper. Shot blasting or sanding machines can be used to clean large metal surfaces.
- For the surfaces exposed to harsh marine environments, an anti-corrosive primer must be initially applied before bituminous painting.
- The paint must be applied evenly on the entire surface in as many coats as required.
- Allow 30 minutes of drying time between coats. Leave for seven days to fully cure before backfilling.
FAQs
Bituminous paints are commonly used in construction for waterproofing, corrosion resistance, and damp proofing applications for different structural elements.
Bituminous paint is applied to substrates, iron, steel, metal structures, castings, asbestos cement sheeting, and structural concrete surfaces.
Read More
Types of Paints Used In Construction