Together for sustainably attractive façades

 
Together we build greatness. Manufacturer, architect or builder, each in their own field of expertise, do their utmost to achieve amazing projects. Buildings we can be proud of. It is disconcerting to see that, after a few years, façades are often tainted by different kinds of pollutants: green deposits, dust and dirt, efflorescence, even hazing. This is why Vandersanden has been advocating impregnating façades after the work has been completed, to protect them against these kinds of pollution.
 
 

Vandersanden goes one step further …

 
Sustainable entrepreneurship is one of the core values that drives us towards further developments. Our commitment to sustainably attractive façades is a logical consequence. Vandersanden aims to use an impregnating agent immediately after production to protect all colours that seem more susceptible to these kinds of pollutions.
 
The 4 sides of these facing bricks are water repellent thanks to impregnation. This impregnating agent protects the facing bricks against pollution and hazing and guarantees long-lasting, attractive façades.
 
The first automated impregnating line was installed in mid-2017 and these investments will be rolled out to our other plants. From the autumn of 2019, all bricks that are sensitive to such fouling will be impregnated.
 
 
 

Processing recommendations

 

IMPORTANT:

The same working methods are used for protected facing bricks as for ordinary facing bricks.
The following working requirements need extra care:

General
  • Do not work with wet facing bricks. Cut open the wrapping at the sides to allow condensation to evaporate.
  • Protect opened packs against rain, and cover them again at night after finishing work.
  • Protect new brickwork against cold weather, driving rain and wind.
  • When laying the bricks and curing the mortar, the ambient temperature should not fall below 5°C and not exceed 30°C.
  • Do not work on a frozen surface or if there is a risk of frost.
 
 
      
Masonry mortar / Coloured mortar
  • Be careful not to add too much water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not add more water than the specified quantity. .
Joint-free masonry (gluing) 
  • No special requirements. 
Pointing
  • Do not apply during frost or rain.
  • Only work on dry walls. If necessary, first wipe the wet bricks dry.
 
       
 

FAQ

 
1. Does it cost more? 
 
No, it doesn’t cost more. Vandersanden is covering the cost of this investment itself. It is consistent with our sustainability strategy and our pride in an excellent product.
 
2. What sort of mortar should I use with impregnated bricks?
 
The initial rate of water absorption (IRA class) of impregnated and non-impregnated bricks is stated on the technical card. The mortar should be adjusted to the relevant IRA class as is standard. It is not necessary to use a special mortar. Less water should be added to the mortar when the weather is wet, of course, and the bricks should be dry.
 
3. What about finishing mortar? 
 
The mortar used should be adjusted depending on the circumstances here as well. Again, when the weather is wet, we always advise using dry bricks and adding less water to the mortar.
 
4. What sort of jointing mortar do I have to use for impregnated bricks?
 
The following rule always applies to jointing mortar: adapt your jointing mortar to the characteristics of the facing brick, and ideally use a water-resistant jointing mortar.
 
 
        
5. Is it a chemical product?
 
Impregnation is a proven technique where a water resistant product is used. The products penetrate and bind with the facing brick immediately. The product is not harmful to the environment.
 
6. Can impregnation be seen on the facing bricks? 
 
No, the impregnation that Vandersanden uses is entirely invisible. 
 
7. How can I see or know which bricks have been impregnated, and which haven’t?
 
Which bricks have been impregnated is clearly shown on the order confirmation. An information document is also attached to this confirmation. An A3 flyer is also included with the packs of impregnated bricks with tips from and for specialists on how we can achieve facades that are enduringly beautiful. 
There is also a ‘C’ top-left on the CE card on the packs of impregnated bricks.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Questions?

 
Do you have any questions or do you need advice for your project? Our technical service will be pleased to answer all your questions and give customised advice.
 

Questions or advice?
Contact our Technical support department:

 

technicalsupport@vandersanden.com.
 
 
 

FOR THE PROFESSIONAL:

White paper:

Impregnated Vandersanden bricks

 
      

Mortar advice:

Consult the technical data sheet to find
the right type of mortar
Would you like to find out why Vandersanden impregnates its bricks?
Then download the white paper as well.
 
It tells you how bricks are impregnated, how water transport works in impregnated bricks, what the points of attention are, and the advantages of working with impregnated bricks.
 
In addition to a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing façade, impregnated
bricks also offer other advantages.
 
Read all about it in the comprehensive document: :
 
      
The type of mortar used depends on the initial rate of water absorption (IRA class) of the brick.

The technical information sheet will list the IRA of both the impregnated and the non-impregnated brick.

Impregnated products can be recognised by the "C" in the top left of the CE label on the packaging. This will also be stated on the order form

It is important, therefore, to first verify whether the bricks are impregnated or not and adjust the mortar to the corresponding IRA class, as indicated on the technical information sheet.
You can download the technical d.ata sheets for the different kinds of brick in the download centre.