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CIM 1000 vs Competitor Coatings: What Sets It Apart

ChatGPT Image Sep 19, 2025, 11_33_47 AM

Not all waterproofing systems perform the same under real-world stress. CIM 1000 stands apart from rigid epoxies and asphaltic coatings with its elastomeric flexibility, strong adhesion across tough substrates, and extremely low permeability. With crack-bridging up to ~400% elongation, seamless liquid-applied application, and NSF/ANSI 61 potable assemblies, CIM 1000 delivers reliable protection where competitors often fail.

CIM 1000 vs Competitor Coatings: What Sets It Apart

Not all waterproofing systems handle movement, immersion, and field realities the same way. CIM 1000 is the backbone of CIM’s elastomeric, liquid-applied portfolio—chosen for flexibility, adhesion, and low permeability across tanks, decks, and containment.

CIM 1000 outperforms rigid epoxies and asphaltic/bituminous coatings because it’s an elastomeric, 100% solids system with high elongation, crack-bridging, and strong adhesion (even with moisture-tolerant priming). For potable work, pair with CIM 1061/CIM 1000 TG per spec to achieve NSF/ANSI 61 assemblies.

Performance That Matters in the Field

  • Elastomeric flexibility & crack-bridging
    The CIM line exhibits high elongation (≈approximately 400%) and crack-bridging (tested in accordance with the TDS), which helps accommodate substrate movement, thermal shock, and settlement, where rigid films typically fail.
  • Adhesion across challenging substrates
    With EMT Primer and VOC-compliant bonding agents, CIM systems are designed for reliable adhesion on steel, concrete, galvanized, fiberglass, and previously coated surfaces.
  • Very low water permeability
    CIM membranes are engineered for low perm rates (e.g., ~0.03 perms cited in CIM content), reducing intrusion risk under constant immersion.
  • Liquid-applied, fully bonded, seamless
    Conforms to penetrations, corners, transitions, details—no seams to weld, easier spot repairs, and fewer leak paths.

Where Epoxies/Bitumen Fall Short

  • Movement tolerance: rigid chemistries resist cracks poorly; elastomeric CIM membranes bridge and flex.
  • Cold/variable conditions: liquid-applied elastomerics install more consistently across weather windows (follow TDS).
  • Maintenance & rework: monolithic CIM systems allow clean detail work and localized repairs without seam surgery.
  • Potable safety path: potable NSF/ANSI 61 options and assemblies available within the CIM line (see below).

Build the Right Assembly (Potable or Not)

  • General purpose elastomeric: CIM 1000 (horizontal)
  • Vertical/overhead: CIM 1000 TG (Trowel Grade) — sag-resistant for walls/ceilings, commonly used within potable systems
  • Potable water: CIM ECO 1061 or CIM 1061 — NSF/ANSI 61 approved for direct potable contact
  • Indoor/odor-sensitive: CIM ECO 1000 — zero-VOC, 100% solids for confined or occupied spaces
  • Primer: EMT Primer — moisture-tolerant adhesion promoter to steel and concrete

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FAQs

Q1: How does CIM 1000 compare to epoxy in crack-bridging?

Elastomeric CIM membranes offer high elongation and are engineered for crack-bridging per published test methods—advantages rigid epoxies typically lack.

Q2: Is the CIM system suitable for potable water?

Yes—Both CIM ECO 1061 and CIM 1061 are NSF/ANSI 61 approved for potable water contact, and CIM 1000 TG is used for vertical/overhead areas in potable assemblies. Verify final assembly and film builds in the TDS.

Q3: Can I apply CIM systems on damp or variable substrates?

CIM’s EMT Primer supports adhesion in moisture-tolerant conditions when surface prep meets TDS. Always confirm ambient/substrate conditions, profile, and cure windows.

Q4: What about total cost vs. competitors?

CIM’s lower life-cycle cost comes from fewer failures, seamless detailing, and simplified repairs—especially where movement, immersion, or complex geometry exist.

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