FAQ
Quick Dams, what are they and how do they work?
Quick Dams contain a super absorbent polymer (similar to what’s inside baby diapers) that
react and swell on contact with water. Once activated (typically 10 minutes), the water is
contained as a gel within the fabric, thus acting as a barrier.
How do you activate them?
Lay them in position and wait for the rain, spray with a hose, dunk them in a bucket of water,
lay them in a puddle or place them in a fresh water source like a stream.
Do I have to add water?
Depending on your situation, you may pre-activate them or let the weather activate them.
Quick Dams can be placed in position and wait for water to arrive. If a current of water is
expected, partially activating them is recommended so that they don’t oat away. If building
a retaining wall is desired, pre-soaking & stacking them is recommended.
Do Quick Dams or any other water activated sandbags work with salt water
applications?
No, Quick Dams do not work with salt water, calcium, lime or chlorine. There is a chemical
reaction that causes the absorbed water to be released back out, making them not effective as
a barrier & must be thrown away.
How should I position Quick Dam Flood Barriers?
Flood Barriers contain a wedge to prevent them from rolling. When laying in position, be sure
to place the “mini channel” away from ooding water. This will assure that as it grows, it acts
as a wedge to secure in position. Ideally, place Quick Dams outdoors in the path of problem
water & divert it, before it becomes a problem. They can also be used to absorb & contain a
leak or spill.
Can these be used for Oil & Chemicals?
Quick Dams should be pre-activated with water to create a barrier & then they can be used to
control other uids. They will not activate without the presence of water.
I noticed some white crystals on the outside of the product after I activated it.
Is that normal?
Yes, this is normal. During our manufacturing process the needles can pull the powder
through the stitched seam, which will cause crystals to appear the rst time you activate t
he product. The gelled water will wash away with water, degrade over time & is non toxic
& nonhazardous.
How long do Quick Dams last?
Un-activated: indenite as long as kept dry, so store in their closed package until needed.
Activated: if left in position, they can last for 6-12 months.
Can I re-use them?
Yes, you can re-use them. Once activated, Quick Dams will remain active until the water
evaporates, typically taking several weeks for complete evaporation. If left in position,
they will shrink while evaporating and grow when re-exposed to water.
They seem to shrink. Is that normal?
Yes, as the water evaporates, they will get smaller. If complete evaporation is desired, store
Quick Dams in a dry environment , like a garage or shed. Over several weeks, Quick Dams will
shrink & become crunchy & ready to store away. Once re-exposed to water, they will absorb
& swell again.
I notice a slimy feel on the Quick Dams, what is that?
Quick Dams contain a super absorbent polymer that is non-toxic & non-hazardous and will
degrade over time. This degradation is the slime that you feel. Simply wash or wipe it off.
THE NEXT GENERATION IN FLOOD PROTECTION
TM
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Flood Bags
& Barriers
Before / Antes After / Después
10 min.
During rst activation,
white gel along stitching is normal.
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