Quick-set & rapid-set concrete — balcony hob

Sika rapid-set repair mortars (such as SikaGrout-212, SikaRep rapid-set mortar or current equivalent) are used for forming or reinstating balcony door hob upstands where a fast return to service is required. The mortar achieves structural strength within hours, allowing waterproofing trades to begin work on the hob the same day or the following day rather than waiting the 7–14 days required for standard concrete. The substrate must be prepared by cutting back to sound concrete, cleaning with a mechanical method (not acid wash before priming), saturating with water (SSD condition), and applying a compatible Sika primer or bonding agent immediately before placing the mortar. Confirm the minimum hob height requirement with the NCC and the project waterproofing specification before forming the hob. Confirm the current product name, mix ratios and current TDS with Sika Australia before specifying — product ranges are updated periodically. TODO: owner confirm — confirm preferred Sika rapid mortar product and current specification before use.

Mapei Planitop Xtra or Planitop Rapid (or current equivalent rapid-set structural mortar) is a polymer-modified, rapid-strength-gain repair mortar suitable for balcony door hob formation and repair where a fast return to service is required. Fibre-reinforced formulations (e.g., Planitop Xtra) provide improved crack resistance in thin section hob applications. Substrate must be cut back to sound concrete, cleaned, and primed with a compatible Mapei bonding agent (e.g., Primer E or Eporip) before placing the mortar. The substrate must be in SSD condition — no free water. Confirm hob height with NCC and the project waterproofing specification before forming. Confirm the current product name, formulation and TDS with Mapei Australia before specifying — product range is updated periodically. All waterproofing membranes applied over the hob must be compatible with the mortar — confirm with the waterproofing product manufacturer. TODO: owner confirm — confirm preferred Mapei rapid mortar product before specifying.

Ardex produces a range of rapid-set cementitious repair and resurfacing products suitable for balcony hob formation and repair. Products such as Ardex K 22, Ardex Pandomo or the current equivalent rapid-set structural mortar can be used for forming or reinstating balcony door hob upstands. As with other rapid-set mortars, substrate preparation (cut back to sound concrete, clean, prime, SSD condition) is critical. Hob height must comply with NCC and the project waterproofing specification. Confirm the most appropriate current Ardex product for hob formation with the Ardex technical team before specifying — Ardex has a broad product range and the most suitable product for the specific application should be confirmed. All waterproofing systems applied over the hob must be confirmed as compatible with the Ardex repair mortar. TODO: owner confirm — confirm preferred Ardex rapid mortar product for hob formation with Ardex Australia before specifying.