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General FAQ
The HW system can be used for all buildings that have a continuous bed joint, both for external and internal walls. Many years of experience have shown us that not only brick buildings, but also most stone buildings can have a continuous bed joint.
With our HW partners, we are the right contact for your refurbishment and renovation project throughout Europe. In the case of capillary rising damp in masonry, we offer you the solution with our patented HW stainless steel barrier, which separates and insulates the wall in just one work step thanks to our unique working method.
We are looking for further cooperation partners who want to do sustainable and reliable work and offer the most efficient method of wall drying themselves.
We look forward to receiving an inquiry from you as a B2B customer as well as a B2C customer!
With the patented HW stainless steel barrier, we can dry out walls in just one work step. The stainless steel plate with the HW tip is driven into the masonry with the help of the HW impact tools, separating it and sealing it at the same time. Settlement is reduced by compacting the joint mortar and the stability of the masonry remains unaffected!
As a result of drying out, the brick increases its thermal insulation capacity and reduces your heating costs.
Drying out the walls above the stainless steel barrier improves the indoor air quality and reduces potential health risks.
Because our mechanical barrier, due to our choice of material
- Permanently tight
- rot-proof
- controllable
- maintenance-free
- Environmentally friendly (no chemicals)
is.
Historic buildings are our specialty. Thanks to our process, where the cutting and insertion of the sharpened HW stainless steel plates as a horizontal barrier takes place in just one work step, the existing joint material is compacted when the plates are driven in. No subsidence can occur.
No. The dead weight of the building is too high to displace the entire building over a wave height transverse to the grooving due to wind attack when the building dries out on 4 sides.
Practice has so far shown that no condensation damage occurs on the inside of the masonry if the wall is sufficiently thick in the area of plastered metal barriers. This is due to the favorable heat transfer between the metal panel and the masonry on the upper and lower sides as well as the low thermal conductivity of the panel cross-section, which is only 1.5 mm thick. As a result, the temperature of the metal panel largely corresponds to that of the masonry.
The capillary transport coefficient of bricks remains the same. However, the capillary water transport is completely interrupted by the horizontal barrier, as stainless steel has no capillarity. Above the barrier, there is no replenishment of water from the ground, so the wall dries out.
The wall remains damp below the barrier. Above it, the moisture decreases over time due to evaporation and diffusion. The drying time depends on the wall thickness, porosity, outdoor and indoor climate.
Horizontally the same as before. The barrier stops the capillary rise from below into the masonry.
Fine-pored mortars favor stronger capillary water transport and slower drying. Coarse-pored structures have a lower capillary suction.
The porosity class indicates how open or tight a masonry is and therefore how much water it can hold. The effectiveness of the barrier is independent of the degree of moisture penetration of the masonry.
Stainless steel panels are considered to be mechanically durable and resistant to ageing. Injection processes can lose their effectiveness if they are not completely saturated or if cracks form.
There is practical evidence and expert opinions, but hardly any systematic, independent long-term meta-analyses. The theoretical durability of stainless steel clearly exceeds 50 years. We know this from experience, as we have been dry-walling with stainless steel since 1975.
Local compressive and shear stresses occur in the bed joint area. If carried out correctly, the load-bearing capacity of the masonry is maintained, as no masonry is removed and the flow of forces is therefore not interrupted.
At most very slightly, as the dead weight and inertia of the wall are far more decisive.
If stainless steel (e.g. V2A/V4A) is used, the risk of corrosion is low. V4A is preferable in areas exposed to high levels of salt or chloride.
V2A is sufficient for normal exposure to moisture. V4A offers increased resistance to halogenated media such as compounds with fluorine, chlorine, bromine iodine chlorides and sulphates - relevant for road salt exposure, in coastal areas or old stables.
Practically not. The stainless steel plate is thin and has a negligible effect on heat transfer, as the plate takes on the temperature of the masonry due to its low thickness.
The wall adjusts to a new equilibrium: dry above, permanently damp below the barrier.
Yes, provided planning and execution meet the requirements for sealing against rising damp and static concerns are taken into account.
Stainless steel requires a lot of energy to produce, but also has a long service life and can be recycled by type. Injection resins use less material, but have chemical components. Stainless steel is sustainable over its life cycle.
Low to none if carried out properly by trained personnel.
That the main cause of damp masonry is capillary rising damp.
For masonry without a continuous bed joint, with highly irregular joints, with hard cement joints or if there is pressing water.
FAQ: Mechanical Lock/Horizontal Lock
A mechanical horizontal barrier is a physical waterproofing layer in masonry. It prevents moisture from rising by capillary action from the ground. In the HW method, overlapping stainless steel plates serve this function.
The stainless steel plates are driven directly into the continuous horizontal expansion joint. This creates a continuous moisture barrier within the masonry. Since the stainless steel interrupts capillary rise, moisture cannot continue to rise above the barrier.
The effect is based on an actual physical barrier. Capillary water transport is not influenced by chemical reactions but is physically interrupted. The barrier effect is therefore independent of the existing degree of moisture penetration, and, due to the material used, its duration is independent of any potential salt contamination in the masonry.
A continuous horizontal expansion joint is essential. Only then can the stainless steel panels be installed continuously and with an overlap. For expansion joints with a higher cement content, it must be determined whether the panels can be installed given the hardness of the joint.
No. With the patented HW method, there is no need to drill into the wall. Nor is any masonry removed from the joint. The panels are installed directly into the bearing joint. This prevents any settlement from occurring.
No. The load-bearing path of the wall is not interrupted, since no masonry is removed. This method is primarily used in the renovation of older buildings.
The capillary moisture flow is interrupted immediately after proper installation. The masonry above the barrier begins to dry out right away. How long it takes for the wall to dry completely depends on the extent of moisture penetration in the wall and on outdoor weather conditions.
Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, durable, and maintenance-free. HW has been using stainless steel plates for wall drainage since 1975. It is not necessary to repeat the process.
Yes, provided that rising damp is the cause. However, for basement walls in contact with the ground, an intact vertical waterproofing system must also be in place or added.
This means that there is an existing barrier (in the form of stainless steel plates). This barrier forms a structurally continuous barrier against capillary moisture rise and interrupts the transport of water along the entire length of the treated wall.
Yes. The stainless steel plates are installed so that they overlap. This creates a continuous barrier without any gaps within the expansion joint.
Capillary moisture rise takes advantage of the porous structure of brick and mortar. Even the smallest unsealed areas can allow moisture to travel upward along the wall. A continuous stainless steel barrier reliably blocks this path.
Yes, it stops capillary moisture from rising above the installed moisture barrier. Moisture may still be present below the barrier. However, the barrier prevents water from seeping into the masonry above it.
Once installed, no water can rise by capillary action from the soil into the wall area above the barrier. Any remaining moisture can then escape through evaporation.
No. The HW horizontal barrier eliminates the cause of capillary moisture rise. In cases of moisture penetration from the sides, driving rain, condensation, pipe damage, or water pressure, additional or different waterproofing measures are required.
Yes, because stainless steel has a long service life, is corrosion-resistant, and can be recycled as a single material. Since the HW process does not involve the use of any chemical sealants, it provides a permanent mechanical solution that does not require any recurring follow-up treatment.
Because it permanently prevents capillary moisture transport through an actual, water-impermeable barrier layer and, when installed properly, is comparable to the condition of a new building. Unlike chemical methods, its effectiveness is based solely on a physical separation of the capillary system. The barrier function is therefore independent of moisture, salt contamination, and the material properties of the masonry.
FAQ: Injection Procedures
In an injection process, holes are drilled into the masonry. Waterproofing materials such as creams, liquids, or gels are injected through these holes. These materials are intended to reduce capillary water absorption in the masonry.
The mechanical horizontal barrier forms an absolute moisture barrier that, when installed properly, is comparable to the condition of a new building. Injection methods—provided that a suitable injection material is selected and used in sufficient quantities— the duration of exposure, and the controlled application of the injection agent, result in a significant reduction in capillary moisture transport; however, they cannot completely prevent it and therefore represent a relative moisture barrier.
If there is a continuous horizontal construction joint and capillary moisture is present, a mechanical barrier offers clear advantages: The barrier is physically present, takes effect immediately, and is permanent. Its effectiveness does not depend on whether an injection material is distributed evenly throughout the masonry.
Effectiveness depends, among other things, on the masonry structure, the degree of moisture penetration, voids, salts, and the distribution of the injection material. Not all masonry absorbs the substances used uniformly. As a result, the waterproofing may remain incomplete in certain areas.
Yes. In order to apply the waterproofing materials, holes must be drilled into the masonry at regular intervals. With the HW horizontal barrier, there is no need to drill holes in the wall.
Durability depends on the material used, the masonry, and proper installation; watertightness warranties are typically provided for approximately 10 years. The HW horizontal water barrier, on the other hand, uses stainless steel as a durable, corrosion-resistant material and requires no maintenance after installation.
A mechanical horizontal barrier is not suitable if there is no continuous horizontal expansion joint, if the joints are very rigid, or if water pressure is the cause of moisture penetration. In such cases, the renovation must be planned on a case-by-case basis.
FAQ: Electrophysical Methods (Electroosmosis)
Electro-osmosis, also known as electrophysical wall drying, is an active method for reducing capillary moisture rise. In this process, electrodes are installed in or on the masonry and connected via an electrical system. The resulting electric field is intended to influence the transport of moisture within the masonry.
Electrodes and a grounding element are used. A low electrical voltage is applied to move water within the porous structure of the masonry toward the soil. Unlike a horizontal water barrier, however, this method does not create a physical, water-impermeable barrier layer within the masonry. Its effectiveness is highly controversial among experts.
No. An electro-osmotic system is not a true, continuous horizontal water barrier. It does not interrupt capillary water transport by creating an actual barrier, but rather attempts to influence it through a continuously operating electrical system.
In cases of capillary moisture rise and a continuous horizontal construction joint, a mechanical horizontal moisture barrier creates a physical barrier made of stainless steel. This immediately and permanently interrupts the flow of moisture. Its effectiveness does not depend on a power supply, electrodes, or a continuously operating device.
In active electroosmotic processes, continuous operation is generally required to maintain the electric field. If the system is shut down or fails, the effect ceases.
Yes. The HW horizontal barrier consists of corrosion-resistant stainless steel plates and, once installed, requires no power supply, no control system, and no ongoing maintenance. Due to the durability of stainless steel, it is not necessary to repeat the treatment after a few years.
Electrophysical methods often aim to achieve what is known as “equilibrium moisture content.” This does not necessarily mean that the masonry will become completely dry. For some uses or subsequent renovation measures, the remaining moisture can be problematic.
No. Electro-osmosis—just like a horizontal water barrier—is not a solution for water pressure, moisture penetrating from the sides, driving rain, or defective pipes. First, the actual cause of the moisture penetration must be professionally determined.
Depending on the system, electrodes must be securely installed in or on the masonry. The HW horizontal barrier, on the other hand, requires no drilling into the wall and no chemical agents. The stainless steel plates are inserted directly into the continuous horizontal expansion joint.
According to the manufacturer, suitability depends on the masonry structure, the cause of the moisture, salt contamination, and the building’s use. Even though electrophysical methods can be used on different types of masonry, their effectiveness remains highly dependent on the specific structure.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. With electro-osmosis, in addition to installation and planning costs, there may also be ongoing electricity and operating costs. A mechanical horizontal water barrier is a one-time structural measure and requires no ongoing energy consumption.
The HW Horizontal Barrier is particularly suitable when capillary moisture rise has been detected and there is a continuous horizontal expansion joint. It eliminates capillary moisture rise by means of a permanent, mechanical barrier made of stainless steel.
No. The horizontal barrier protects against moisture rising by capillary action. For walls in contact with the ground, lateral moisture ingress, or water pressure, a functional vertical waterproofing system is also required.
FAQs on Alternative Methods for Drying Out Walls
Masonry Replacement
During masonry replacement, damaged masonry in the foundation or base area is removed section by section and rebuilt. A horizontal moisture barrier can also be installed as part of this process.
This method is particularly suitable when the masonry or foundation area is already significantly damaged and simple waterproofing is not sufficient. It involves a major structural intervention.
Removing masonry in sections involves altering the existing structure. The work must be carefully planned from a structural engineering perspective. Depending on the condition of the building, this may result in settlement, stress, or cracking.
With the HW horizontal barrier, no masonry is removed. The stainless steel plates are installed directly into the continuous horizontal expansion joint, ensuring that the wall’s load-bearing capacity is not interrupted at any time.
Wall sawing method
In the wall-sawing method, the masonry is cut horizontally. A moisture barrier membrane or moisture barrier panels are then installed in the resulting cut to prevent further capillary moisture migration.
Cutting through the wall involves direct intervention in the wall’s cross-section. The work must be carried out in sections and carefully coordinated from a structural engineering perspective. Careful planning is essential, especially when dealing with old, irregular, or already damaged masonry.
Since the wall-sawing method removes more grout than is replaced by the barrier layer, the joint must be chiseled out and carefully refilled after the panels are installed. If this is not done properly, settlement cracks may occur.
Yes. In the sawing method, the masonry is cut section by section. The effectiveness of the horizontal water barrier depends on the proper execution of the cut, the installation of the barrier membrane, and the complete backfilling of the joint. Defects resulting from improper installation can compromise the continuity of the waterproofing layer. With the HW method, the joint mortar is preserved; the stainless steel plates are inserted directly into the bed joint and form a continuous, watertight barrier.
The wall-cutting method is a two-step process: first, the wall must be cut open, and then, in a second step, the barrier layer must be installed.
The HW method does not involve any cutting. The stainless steel plates are inserted directly into the expansion joint and form a continuous, watertight barrier. It is therefore a one-step process.
Two-step process using polyester sheets
In this process, the masonry is first cut through. Glass-fiber-reinforced polyester panels are then installed as a barrier layer. This process therefore consists of two separate steps.
For heterogeneous masonry (e.g., mixed or stone masonry), a two-step process is required.
The HW panels are installed in a single step. They both separate and seal at the same time. This eliminates the need to cut all the way through the masonry beforehand, allowing the waterproofing work to be completed more quickly.
No. If there is a suitable, continuous horizontal expansion joint, the HW horizontal moisture barrier can be a technically well-defined solution that protects the building structure against capillary moisture rise.
Pressureless Injection
In pressureless injection, holes are drilled into the masonry. The injection material is then intended to seep into the pore structure through the drilled channels and reduce capillary water transport.
To ensure that the material can spread sufficiently, the masonry must be suitable for this purpose. The degree of moisture penetration, voids, salts, and the structure of the bricks and mortar all influence the result.
If moisture penetration is high, the pores may already be filled with water. This can limit the absorption and distribution of the injection material.
The HW Horizontal Barrier is effective regardless of how severely the masonry is saturated with moisture. The stainless steel plates form a true, continuous barrier layer and require neither drill holes nor chemical grout.
Injection with heating
In this process, the masonry is first heated using heating rods. The goal is to allow the moisture it contains to evaporate so that a waterproofing material can then be injected through drill holes.
The heating is intended to improve the masonry's ability to absorb the injection material. The drier the pores are, the better the material can theoretically spread.
The process requires additional energy and is technically complex. If certain areas of the masonry remain damp, the waterproofing material may not be able to penetrate them sufficiently under certain circumstances.
The stainless steel plates are inserted directly into the bed joint. Their effectiveness does not depend on whether the masonry has been dried or heated beforehand.
Low-pressure injection
In a low-pressure injection process, special injection materials are injected into the masonry under light pressure through staggered drill holes. These materials are intended to spread throughout the capillary pores and form a water-repellent barrier.
It generally does not require preheating and does not directly affect the structural integrity of the wall. In addition, the injection material can be precisely applied to the intended area of the wall.
Key factors include the masonry structure, moisture content, pore structure, any voids, and proper installation. The barrier effect occurs only where the material can be distributed sufficiently and evenly.
The HW Horizontal Barrier creates a physical barrier made of stainless steel. It is continuous, takes effect immediately, and is independent of the distribution of any injection material within the masonry. Once installed, it requires no power supply, no follow-up treatment, and no maintenance.
The cause of the moisture is always the decisive factor. If capillary rising damp is present and the masonry has a continuous horizontal bed joint, the mechanical HW horizontal damp-proof barrier is, in many cases, the most technically sustainable solution. In cases of water pressure, moisture penetrating from the side, or the absence of a horizontal joint, additional or different waterproofing measures are required.
Do you still have questions? Then write to us - we will be happy to answer all your questions about wall drying and our patented HW stainless steel barrier.
