How to Use Sika Post Fix for Secure and Durable Structures
How to Use Sika Post Fix?
To use Sika Post Fix, follow these steps:
1. Before mixing, ensure you are wearing safety goggles and chemically resistant gloves.
2. Have the product pouch and scissors ready next to the hole where it will be used.
3. After 15 seconds of mixing time, cut the corner of the pouch as indicated, pointing the cut line away from your body.
4. Mixing must be done outdoors immediately adjacent to the hole.
5. Roll the pouch starting from the compartment containing Component A towards the ‘burst seal’ following the arrows on the back label.
6. Apply pressure to rupture the seal and allow Component A to flow into the compartment containing Component B, keeping the pouch away from your face.
7. Thoroughly mix the components by rolling out the pouch and rubbing it along a table edge or any 90-degree surface without sharp edges for 15 seconds using a “shoe shining” technique.
8. Pour the mixed material into the hole immediately after mixing.
9. Pour some of the material onto the post itself for better adherence and protection.
10. Adjust the position of the post for up to 10 seconds after pouring, and then support it until the material firms up.
11. Expansion of the material will occur in around 3 to 5 minutes.
After expansion, there is no need to brace or support the post.
12. However, in cold or windy conditions, hold the post until it stands firm.
13. The product will set completely in approximately 2 hours.
14. Once the product is set, the post can be installed or fence/gates can be attached.
Remember to follow all safety precautions and instructions on the product’s packaging.
Key Points:
- Wear safety goggles and chemically resistant gloves when using Sika Post Fix.
- Have the product pouch and scissors ready next to the hole.
- Cut the corner of the pouch after 15 seconds of mixing time, pointing the cut line away from your body.
- Mixing must be done outdoors immediately adjacent to the hole.
- Thoroughly mix the components by rolling out the pouch and rubbing it along a 90-degree surface without sharp edges for 15 seconds.
- Pour the mixed material into the hole immediately after mixing and pour some onto the post for better adherence and protection.
Did You Know?
1. The Sika Post Fix, a fast-setting polyurethane foam, was first developed in Switzerland in the 1960s as a solution for stabilizing highway guardrails.
2. Sika Post Fix can be used to securely anchor other structures besides fence posts, such as mailboxes, satellite dishes, and deck supports.
3. One of the main advantages of using Sika Post Fix is its ability to expand after application, filling any gaps or cavities around the post and providing additional stability.
4. The product is not only effective for new post installations, but it can also be used to reinforce existing posts that have become loose over time, saving the hassle and expense of replacing them.
5. Sika Post Fix is an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional methods of post installation, as it does not require digging deep holes or using concrete, reducing the amount of excavation and carbon emissions involved.
Immediate Pouring And Adherence
When using Sika Post Fix for your fence post installation, it is crucial to pour the product into the hole immediately after mixing. The mixing process should be done outdoors, adjacent to the hole, to ensure an efficient and timely application. Before pouring, it is important to wear safety goggles and chemically resistant gloves to protect yourself from any potential harm.
To ensure better adherence and protection, it is recommended to pour some of the Sika Post Fix material onto the post itself. This additional measure will enhance the bond between the post and the poured material, providing added stability and durability to your structure.
Adjusting Post Position And Support
After pouring the Sika Post Fix, you have a window of up to 10 seconds to make any necessary adjustments to the post position. This flexibility allows you to ensure your post is perfectly aligned before the material begins to firm up.
However, it is important to note that once you have achieved the desired post position, do not move the post. It is recommended to provide support to the post until the material firms up. This support can be in the form of using stakes or any other suitable means to hold the post in place. This step is crucial to ensure that the post remains in the desired position during the subsequent steps of the installation process.
Expansion And Firming Up
Sika Post Fix is designed to expand after pouring, typically within 3 to 5 minutes. During this time, the material expands and fills any voids, providing excellent stability and support for your fence post.
Once the expansion process is complete, there is no need to brace or support the post further. The material will sufficiently hold the post in place, providing a secure foundation for your fence or gate. However, in cold or windy conditions, it is advisable to hold the post until it stands firm to ensure optimal stability.
Braceless Installation After Expansion
Unlike conventional methods, Sika Post Fix eliminates the need for traditional bracing during the installation process. The expansion and firming up of the material provide ample support for the post, allowing for a braceless installation.
This convenient feature not only saves time and effort but also ensures a safer and more reliable installation. With Sika Post Fix, you can proceed with the installation of your fence or gate without the need for additional support structures.
- No traditional bracing required during installation
- Ample support for the post through expansion and firming up of the material
- Saves time and effort
- Ensures a safer and more reliable installation
Setting Time And Post/Gates Attachment
After the expansion and firming up process, the Sika Post Fix will continue to set over time. It generally takes approximately 2 hours for the material to set completely, depending on the ambient temperature and conditions.
Once the product has set, you can proceed with installing your fence posts or attaching your gates. The fully set Sika Post Fix provides a solid foundation, ensuring the longevity and durability of your structures.
Mixing Precautions And Time Limit
Before starting the mixing process, it is crucial to have the product pouch and scissors ready next to the hole where it will be used. By preparing these items beforehand, you can ensure a smooth and efficient mixing process.
When mixing the components, it is important to follow the recommended time limit of 15 seconds. Exceeding this time limit may lead to the expansion of the material within the pouch, causing it to burst and spray its contents, which can result in bodily injury or property damage.
To mix the components thoroughly, use a “shoe shining” technique by rolling out the pouch and rubbing it along a table edge or any 90-degree surface without sharp edges. This method will help achieve a homogenous mix within the specified time frame.
Sika Post Fix is a reliable and efficient solution for installing fence posts. By following the correct process outlined here, you can ensure a secure and durable foundation for your structures. From immediate pouring and adherence to braceless installations and precise time limits, Sika Post Fix simplifies the installation process while providing long-lasting results.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does Sika post fix work?
Sika PostFix® works by combining two parts of a pre-proportioned polyurethane resin that, when mixed, creates an expanding foam. This foam is designed to provide a lightweight and fast-setting backfill for wooden, PVC, and steel in-ground supports. The foam expands to fill any voids or gaps, creating a strong and stable foundation for the supports. Its mix-in-the-bag feature makes it convenient and easy to use, saving time and effort in the installation process. With its specific formulation and packaging, Sika PostFix® offers a reliable solution for securing and stabilizing various types of supports in the ground.
How long does it take for Sika post fix to dry?
Sika post fix typically takes around two (2) hours to fully dry before any further installation or attachment can take place, such as installing a fence or attaching gates to the post. It is important to ensure that the holes in which the post will be placed are formed to the appropriate dimensions and are free of any standing water. Once the product has set, it cannot be easily removed and would require the use of a hand tool for removal.
How long will Sika post fix last?
Sika® PostFix® is designed to be long-lasting, ensuring its durability and resistance to degradation over time. With its sturdy composition, this innovative solution is built to withstand the rigors of the elements and remain effective for several years of service. From its initial installation, Sika® PostFix® is engineered to offer reliable performance and maintain its structural integrity, providing a durable solution for various applications. Whatever the project may be, you can trust that Sika® PostFix® will endure and remain reliable for an extended period.
How much water do you add to post mix?
To determine the appropriate amount of water for post mix, carefully follow the recommended procedure. Start by pouring water into the hole until it fills about half of the space. Next, add the post mix until no water is visible. If any dry powder remains, simply add a small amount of water. To ensure a well-mixed solution, use a stick to stir the mixture, allowing any air bubbles to be released.