Saltguard WB Water-Based Chloride Screening Sealer - Bulk

Saltguard WB: Water-Based Chloride Screening Sealer for Concrete & Masonry

PROSOCO Saltguard® WB is a ready-to-use, water-based silane/siloxane penetrating sealer engineered to protect concrete and masonry surfaces from moisture intrusion and chloride salt chemical attack. Designed for both horizontal and vertical applications, it is ideal for driveways, sidewalks, pavers, retaining walls, and bridge pilings exposed to de-icing salts or coastal salt air. The formula penetrates and chemically bonds deep within the substrate, delivering long-lasting protection without forming a surface film. It is suitable for field or in-plant application to concrete and most masonry.

Technical Specifications

Unlike conventional solvent-based silanes and siloxanes, Saltguard® WB is water-based, VOC compliant, and low odor, making it a safer and more practical choice for occupied or enclosed environments. Its alkaline stability makes it appropriate for use on new "green" concrete as early as 14–28 days after placement, giving contractors scheduling flexibility on active job sites.

Key Features & Benefits

Chloride Screening Protection

Saltguard® WB acts as a chloride screen, preventing salt ions from penetrating through concrete to the reinforcing steel. This directly reduces the risk of rebar corrosion and surface spalling caused by water-carried salts — a critical concern on coastal structures and any surface exposed to de-icing chemicals.

Deep Penetrating Bond — No Surface Film

The sealer penetrates and chemically bonds within the substrate rather than forming a film on the surface. Treated surfaces retain their natural appearance and breathable characteristics, meaning trapped moisture beneath the surface is not a concern.

Water-Based Formula — Reduced Fire and Explosion Hazard

The water-based formulation eliminates the explosion and fire hazards associated with alcohol- or solvent-based water repellents. With a flash point above 212°F (100°C) and low odor, it is well-suited for application near occupied buildings and in situations where solvent products would create unacceptable risk.

Alkaline Stable — Suitable for New Concrete

Saltguard® WB is alkaline stable, making it compatible with new "green" concrete that is 14–28 days old. Contractors do not need to wait for full carbonation of the concrete surface before applying, helping keep project timelines on track.

Resists Penetration Through Shrinkage Cracks

The product resists water penetration when applied over existing shrinkage cracks of 0.02 inches or less. This provides meaningful protection on real-world concrete surfaces that have minor cracking without requiring crack repair prior to sealing.

Easy Cleanup and Low VOC

Soap-and-water cleanup from window glass, frames, and equipment reduces job-site hassle and material costs. With a VOC content below 25 g/L, Saltguard® WB complies with all known national, state, and district AIM VOC regulations.

Common Applications

Driveways and Sidewalks

Protects horizontal concrete surfaces from water intrusion and deterioration caused by de-icing salt application during winter maintenance.

Tile, Brick, and Sandstone Pavers

Suitable for use on horizontal paver surfaces to resist moisture and salt-related staining or surface spalling.

Retaining Walls

Provides effective protection on vertical masonry surfaces exposed to de-icing salts, ground moisture, and salt air in coastal environments.

Bridge Pilings and Structural Concrete

Screens chlorides from reaching reinforcing steel in structural concrete elements such as bridge pilings, reducing long-term corrosion and maintenance costs.

Coastal and Salt-Air Environments

In coastal areas, Saltguard® WB protects both horizontal and vertical surfaces from airborne salt infiltration, extending the service life of concrete and masonry structures.

New Concrete — Field or In-Plant Application

Alkaline stability allows application to concrete as early as 14–28 days after placement, making it practical for both new construction field application and precast in-plant treatment.

Compatible Materials

• Concrete (horizontal and vertical)
• Brick
• Sandstone pavers
• Tile pavers
• Masonry (most types)
• New "green" concrete (14–28 days old)

Limitations

• Not appropriate for limestone, marble, travertine, or other calcareous stones; always test other natural stone before application
• Do not apply at temperatures above 95°F (35°C); higher temperatures evaporate the water carrier and may cause uneven appearance
• Always test for proper penetration on tightly troweled concrete such as garage floors
• Not suitable for surfaces subject to constant water spray (e.g., car washes)
• Not suitable for application to coated surfaces or surfaces previously treated with water repellents or liquid hardeners
• Will not prevent water penetration through structural cracks, defects, or open joints
• Not suitable for synthetic resin paints, gypsum, or other non-masonry surfaces; may not be suitable for surfaces to receive paints or coatings — always test for compatibility
• Not recommended for below-grade application

Product Documents

• Product Data Sheet
• Product Data Sheet (Canadian French)
• Product Data Sheet (Spanish)
• Safety Data Sheet
• Safety Data Sheet (Spanish)
• SDS (Canadian French)
• VOC Compliance
• LEED Verification Letter
• SCS Certification
• LBC Red List Verification

Application Instructions

Surface Preparation

1. Protect people, property, vehicles, and all surfaces not set for treatment from spray, wind drift, and fumes. Protect and/or divert pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
2. Thoroughly clean the surface using the appropriate PROSOCO cleaner. Remove any curing compound or previous sealer, as contaminants may interfere with penetration.
3. Though Saltguard® WB may be applied to slightly damp surfaces, best performance is achieved on clean, visibly dry, and absorbent surfaces. Excessive moisture inhibits penetration and reduces service life.
4. Clean newly constructed and repointed surfaces before application.
5. Protect window glass before applying. Soap-and-water cleanup of overspray is possible from glass and window frames.
6. Maintain adequate ventilation when working on interior surfaces.
7. Do not apply at temperatures above 95°F (35°C).

Compatibility Testing

1. Always test for proper penetration when applying to tightly troweled concrete such as garage floors.
2. Test any natural stone other than tile, brick, or sandstone to ensure desired results prior to full application.
3. Test for compatibility when applying to surfaces that will subsequently receive paints, coatings, sealers, or caulking compounds.

Safety Data Summary

Safe Handling

• Always read the full label and SDS for precautionary instructions before use
• Use appropriate safety equipment and job-site controls during application and handling
• Maintain adequate ventilation when working on interior surfaces
• Avoid exposing building occupants to fumes, even though odor is low
• 24-Hour Emergency Information: INFOTRAC at 800-535-5053

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Saltguard® WB be applied to new concrete?
A: Yes. Saltguard® WB is alkaline stable and suitable for application to new "green" concrete that is 14–28 days old.

Q: Will Saltguard® WB change the appearance of the treated surface?
A: No. When properly applied, Saltguard® WB produces no surface film and maintains the natural appearance and breathable characteristics of the substrate.

Q: Is Saltguard® WB suitable for use on all natural stone?
A: No. It is not appropriate for limestone, marble, travertine, or other calcareous stones. It can be used on tile, brick, and sandstone pavers, but other natural stone types should always be tested prior to full application to ensure desired results.

Q: Can Saltguard® WB be applied over an existing sealer or water repellent?
A: No. It is not suitable for application to coated surfaces or surfaces previously treated with water repellents or liquid hardeners, as these will interfere with the product's ability to penetrate the substrate.

Q: Will Saltguard® WB stop water from coming through cracks?
A: Saltguard® WB resists water penetration over existing shrinkage cracks of 0.02 inches or less, but it will not prevent water penetration through structural cracks, defects, or open joints.

Q: Is Saltguard® WB safe to apply near occupied buildings?
A: The low-odor, water-based formula reduces the risk associated with application near occupied buildings compared to solvent-based alternatives. Adequate ventilation should still be maintained, especially on interior surfaces, and building occupants should be protected from fume exposure.