Understanding Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC: Your Guide to Waterproofing Solutions

When it comes to protecting your building from water damage, choosing the right waterproofing membrane is crucial. Sikalastic® HLM 5000 GC, a high-performance, bitumen-modified polyurethane elastomeric membrane, offers a reliable solution for a variety of construction applications. In this blog, we'll explore what makes this product stand out, its uses, benefits, and key considerations for application, all based on the official product data sheet.

What is Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC?

Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC is a one-component, moisture-curing, bitumen-modified polyurethane elastomeric waterproofing membrane designed for exterior below-grade or between-slab applications. Its seamless, cold-applied nature makes it an excellent choice for preventing water penetration in various construction scenarios.

Key Features

1. Chemical Base: Bitumen-modified polyurethane
2. Color: Black
3. Packaging: Available in 5-gallon (19-liter) pails
4. Shelf Life: 12 months when stored in unopened containers in clean, dry conditions at +40°F to +80°F (+4°C to +27°C)
5. VOC Content: Low at 53 g/L, compliant with SCAQMD regulations
6. Solid Content by Mass: 85% ± 1%
7. Viscosity: 800 poise (Brookfield)
8. Service Temperature Range: -40°F to +120°F (-40°C to +50°C)

Where Can You Use Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC?

This versatile membrane is suitable for a wide range of applications, making it a go-to choice for both residential and commercial projects. It can be applied to:

1. Concrete and Plywood (Exterior): Ideal for exterior below-grade surfaces like foundation walls, below-grade slabs, and split slabs.
2. Masonry and Incidental Metal: Perfect for exterior below-grade masonry and concrete surfaces.
3. Above-Grade Applications: Suitable for between two-course concrete and within cavity walls.
4. Specialized Structures: Parking garages, plaza decks, malls, balconies, planters, walls, and culverts.

Why Choose Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC?

The product offers several advantages that make it a standout choice for waterproofing:

1. Fast Application: Can be applied as early as 72 hours after concrete is poured, or 24 hours after form removal, even on damp concrete.
2. Elastomeric Properties: Accommodates expansion and contraction, ensuring durability.
3. Crack Bridging Ability: Passes ASTM C 1305, with the high-build system (120 mils) bridging 1/4" cracks and the standard system (60 mils) bridging 1/16" cracks without loss of bond or cracking at -15°F (-9°C).
4. Chemical Resistance: Resists bacterial attack, select acids, alkalis, and salts.
5. Seamless Application: Eliminates the need for lapping, scanning, or precutting, and requires no hot-melt equipment.
6. Compliance: Meets ASTM C 836, Canadian National Standard 37.58 M86 (CGSB), and SCAQMD standards.
7. Wide Temperature Range: Suitable for all climates due to its robust service temperature range.

Technical Performance

1. Tensile Strength (ASTM D 412):
   1. High-Build (120 mils): 200 psi (1.4 MPa)
   2. Standard (60 mils): 150 psi (1.0 MPa)
2. Elongation at Break (ASTM D 412):
   1. High-Build: 300%
   2. Standard: 600%
3. Water Vapor Transmission (ASTM E96):
   1. High-Build: 0.075 perms
   2. Standard: 0.1 perms
4. Adhesion in Peel (ASTM C 836): Minimum 5 lbs/in for both systems
5. Dimensional Stability: 16% weight loss (ASTM C 836, max 20%)
6. Thermal Resistance: No cracking (ASTM C 836)
7. Dimensional Change After Water Immersion: None after 3 days at +73°F (+23°C)

Coverage and Thickness Options

Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC is available in standard (60 mils) and high-build (120 mils) systems, with an additional 90 mils option. Coverage varies based on thickness and substrate:

1. 60 mils: Approximately 25 ft²/gal
2. 90 mils: Approximately 18 ft²/gal
3. 120 mils: Approximately 13 ft²/gal

Note: Coverage may vary depending on application technique and substrate porosity or finish.

Application Guidelines

Proper surface preparation and application are critical for optimal performance. Here's what you need to know:

Surface Preparation

1. Concrete Surfaces: Ensure a flat, uniform surface with a light steel trowel or broom finish. Mechanically remove any membrane curing compounds.
2. Porous Block: Prime with Sikadur-22 Lo-Mod FS, Sikalastic FTP Lo-VOC Primer, or Sikalastic GDC Primer.
3. General Preparation: Patch voids and depressions, dam drains, and ensure substrates are dry. Avoid application on wet or contaminated surfaces.

Application Conditions

1. Temperature: Apply at air and substrate temperatures between +40°F to +90°F (+4°C to +32°C). For lower temperatures, consult Sika's Technical Services.
2. Weather: Avoid application during inclement weather.
3. Viscosity Management: Keep the product cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather to manage flow characteristics.
4. Application Technique: Work carefully over irregular concrete to avoid pinholes and holidays.

System Components

1. Sika® Flexitape Heavy: Reinforcing fabric for enhanced durability.
2. Sika® Drainage Mat 420/720/1000: Drainage composite to protect the membrane.

Protection

1. Protect coated surfaces with a protection board or drainage mat before backfilling or within 90 days of application.
2. The membrane is not intended as an exposed or wearing surface and must be fully cured before installing any topping.

Limitations to Consider

To ensure the best results, keep these limitations in mind:

1. Not for Interior Use: Avoid using in interior applications or near food preparation areas due to solvent odor.
2. Temperature Sensitivity: Viscosity is affected by temperature, so store and apply appropriately.
3. Surface Conditions: Do not apply to reinforcing bars, wet, or contaminated surfaces.
4. Heating Precautions: Avoid direct heating with flames, stoves, or ovens.
5. Concrete Curing: Use wet or paper curing for concrete, avoiding liquid curing compounds.
6. Horizontal Applications: Ensure concrete is sloped to prevent ponding water.

Safety and Legal Information

1. Safety: Always read and follow the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and product label instructions. Keep containers tightly closed, out of reach of children, and for professional/industrial use only.
2. Warranty: Sika warrants the product for one year from installation against manufacturing defects when used as directed. The sole remedy is limited to purchase price or replacement, excluding labor costs. No other warranties, including merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, apply.
3. Legal: Sika is not liable for special or consequential damages or for use infringing on intellectual property rights. Refer to the Terms and Conditions of Sale at usa.sika.com or call 1-800-933-7452.

Why Trust Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC?

Backed by Sika Corporation's commitment to quality, Sikalastic HLM 5000 GC is a trusted solution for waterproofing needs. Its compliance with industry standards, versatility across applications, and robust performance characteristics make it an excellent choice for protecting your building from water damage.