The Cohe Team

The only DIY moss and mould killer needed to get the job done right

April 13, 2022 by The Cohe Team

Winter is approaching and before it sets in, now is the time to remove any moss or mould on your house before the cold weather brings dampness, which often promotes more moss, mould and fungus.

If you’ve found moss or mould in your home or building, there’s a high chance that there will be plenty more where that came from, and removal of the moss and mould is now a priority.

Moss and mould and other growths are not only harmful to your health, but they cause expensive damage to your home if left untreated.

We’ve come up with an affordable safe and easy way for you to remove moss and mould DIY style with our Cohe Moss and Mould Killer.

What is the difference between moss and mould?

Moss and mould may look similar, but they are in fact very different from each other. Moss is a plant that converts sunlight and dissolved soil minerals into the energy it needs to grow and reproduce. It has very few uses, but one of its uses is gardening.

Mould is a fungus that is made up of multiple cells and gets energy from the organic matter it lives on. Mould grows best in damp and poorly ventilated areas and reproduces by making airborne spores. Unlike moss, mould doesn’t need sunlight to live.

Why should you remove moss and mould from your home?

Why remove moss?

Moss is bad for any building material and can cause expensive damage. It draws moisture from that material, breaks down its colour first, and etches progressively more deeply into the product. Worse still, it can lead to rotting and provides cover for fungus, which is much more destructive as the fungus has the ability to decompose materials.

Why remove mould?

Although mould is a natural part of our ecosystem, when household mould growth gets out of hand it can not only affect your home but your family’s health.

Moulds are present virtually everywhere, indoors, and outdoors and can grow in and on materials such as food, furniture, fabrics, carpets, walls, paper, roofs, timber, and plumbing. Mould can cause leaks, stains and rot which can lead to costing you thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Mould can also make your home uninviting and worn down.

However, the number one reason why you should remove moss and mould is for your family’s health.

Moulds produce allergens (substances that can cause an allergic reaction), irritants and, sometimes, toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mould spores may cause an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Moulds can also cause asthma attacks and lung issues.

Cohe Moss & Mould Killer

Cohe are providers of innovative, affordable, and environmentally conscious products.

Our removal product, Cohe Moss & Mould Kill is chlorine-free and provides long-lasting control of moss, mould, lichen, and algae.

It’s an affordable solution and super simple to use for the removal of these unpleasant growths.

You can use Cohe Moss & Mould removal products almost anywhere, including:

Concrete,
Pavers
Pool surrounds
Fibrolite
Timber
Outdoor
Furniture
Astro-grass
Fibreglass
Canvas
Iron
Colour steel
Weatherboards and so much more

And, if you are unsure about the material you need to treat get in touch with us to find out if Cohe Moss & Mould Kill is suitable for you.

How to remove moss and mould the safe and easy way

Cohe Moss & Mould Kill is super simple to use. It’s long-lasting and extra effective at removing growths from a wide range of surfaces.

We know that the DIY way is popular with Kiwis across New Zealand, and we all to some extent, think of ourselves as ‘DIYers’. This product is the best no-fuss moss and mould killer that you can use at home.

Instructions for use

Ensure your surfaces are clean and free of loose debris. Use a broom or leaf blower to help clear any loose matter away.
Make sure the spray will not contaminate water sources (if you have water out for pets move it away to prevent overspray. Or, if you have a water tank connected to the roof or gutters, make sure you disconnect them for at least 14 days after spraying).
Use a low-pressure sprayer, and dilute Cohe Moss & Mould Kill with water at a 1:20 ratio (You can alter this ratio depending on how much growth there is on your surfaces).
Then, all you need to do is spray Cohe Moss & Mould killer onto the surface, and then walk away.
Done – it’s really that simple.

Our mould and moss killing solution works so well because it takes time to actively target the new growth of spores. Over just a few months you will see the product working and taking effect with complete results around the three-month mark.

Tips for moss and mould removal

For best results allow a dry contact time of at least 3 hours. Most surfaces do not require rinsing although some aged painted surfaces may require a rinse to avoid streaking
Best applied first thing in the morning or last thing at night onto a cool surface to minimise evaporation
For optimum results apply in sunny and dry conditions with no rain expected for at least 12 hours

Use the Moss and Mould Killer that works

Don’t let moss and mould shorten the life span of your roof, damage your paint and rot the exterior of your home by using Cohe Moss & Mould Kill as soon as the problem appears.

By eliminating moss and mould from your property, you’re creating a safer and healthier environment for your household while saving on potential repair expenses in the future.

For more information or to get useful downloads you can access them here.

If you have any questions or need assistance from one of our Cohe experts, contact us today and we’ll be happy to help you make your home a safer place to live in.

How do you fix concrete yourself? With our DIY concrete repair that works!

March 13, 2022 by The Cohe Team

Cracks in concrete not only make your driveway, patio, or steps look undervalued, they can also lead to further problems as moisture seeps into the concrete. Prevention and maintenance is always your best protection against further costly and unnecessary problems. If you’re looking at fixing your damaged concrete yourself, using our DIY concrete repair will help you get the job done the easy way.

Whether you’re fixing a crack in your driveway, a concrete floor or a pothole, we can guide you in the right direction so you can fix it yourself with confidence.

The different causes of damaged concrete

Before you repair anything, it’s best to know what caused the problem in the first place so you not only have a better understanding but have a better chance of success with a DIY concrete repair that lasts longer.

Corrosion

Concrete corrosion is the chemical, colloidal deterioration or disintegration of solid concrete components and structures due to attack by reactive liquids and gases.

Corrosion is one of the biggest causes of concrete deterioration, so reinforced concrete must be installed and maintained correctly to minimize the risk of damage.

Temperature variations in concrete

Changes in the temperature of concrete can cause cracking. As the concrete gets hotter, it expands; as concrete gets cooler, it contracts. This is similar to many other materials you have probably learned about.

Plastic shrinkage

When the concrete is still in its plastic state before the hardening phase, it is full of water. This water takes up space and makes the slab a certain size. As the slab loses moisture while curing it gets a bit smaller.

Freeze-thaw cycle

If your concrete floor is located outdoors, it’s exposed to many elements. That means rain, wind, and the endless freeze-thaw cycle, to name just a few natural forces. Like corrosion, moisture is another primary culprit of concrete damage. When excess moisture in your concrete freezes, it expands, putting pressure on cavities within the material.

The concrete dries too quickly on application

If the concrete dries too quickly, it will lose moisture which can cause fine cracks throughout the concrete.

Improper installation

Improperly constructed joints, excessive moisture during curing or in the mix, and premature sealing are just a few potential examples of an installation gone wrong. Signs the job was rushed is finding crazing, spalling, and blisters.

How to tell your concrete needs repairing

Cracks appearing in the concrete

The most obvious sign that your concrete may need repair work is the appearance of cracks. Cracks in concrete can be caused by the soil underneath expanding and contracting due to weather conditions. If you have noticed cracks in your concrete, repair them promptly or seek professional advice.

Signs of concrete ageing

Like everything, expect concrete to age over time. A combination of cracks, pooling water, potholes, and unevenness are all signs of damage caused by ageing. The concrete will have noticeable signs of ageing and will look worn out.

An uneven appearance

Another sign that concrete repair is necessary – if your concrete floors, external areas, or walls seem uneven. If you fail to take action when you notice your concrete areas are no longer even, you could end up with a serious issue. This includes crumbling and breaking, which causes instability and could also lead to injury.

Potholes

Like cracks, potholes are caused when the ground underneath it expands and contracts, as well as by the constant pressure from your vehicles. A pothole is more hazardous than a crack, as the hole can cause serious damage to not only cars but to people who use the driveway.

Repair your concrete with our DIY concrete repair

Our DIY concrete repair solutions include one of our most popular products MG-KRETE.

MG-KRETE is a simple and cost-effective solution that’s ideal for your DIY concrete repair and ideal for a wide range of repairs, including:

Roadways
Potholes
Footpaths
Driveways
Industrial Floors
Parking Decks
Bridges
Re-sloping Issues
Trip Hazards
Access Ramps
Steps and Stairs

MG-KRETE lasts much longer and withstands wear and heavy traffic and is superior to traditional cement-based patch material.

Not only does it repair damaged concrete, but it restores structural integrity, whether in thin overlays or pouring into forms, and it can be troweled vertically or overhead.

It has a tenacious bond and does not shrink, creating a surface that is more impervious to moisture, salt, gas and oils, and requires no long-term maintenance.

MG-KRETE is your perfect solution for all domestic, commercial, and industrial concrete repairs.

We have a comprehensive guide, including technical data and safety information, plus a step-by-step video on how to mix and apply it so you can feel confident about fixing it yourself.

Let us help you with your DIY concrete repair

If you need help deciding on what solution is best for your DIY concrete repair we are here to help you make the best choice so you can get the job done right the first time.

We also provide many other custom solutions, including pothole repair and waterproofing concrete.

For more professional advice or questions, you can contact us, and one of our friendly and experienced team members will be happy to help you with your DIY project.

Repair your concrete with confidence and call us today.

Why choose asbestos encapsulation? Removal not always the best option

February 13, 2022 by The Cohe Team

Asbestos is not a word you want to hear when it’s associated with your own home or commercial building. Although asbestos was widely used many decades ago, it is now considered dangerous due to its known serious hazardous effects.

If you suspect you have it in your home it’s much better to be on the safe side and address the issue promptly.

But how? Do you remove the asbestos or do you choose asbestos encapsulation?

In this article, we’ll go over why choosing an asbestos encapsulation could be the right choice for you.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a mineral that’s referred to six unique types of minerals made up of many small fibres. These fibres are very strong and are highly resistant to heat, electricity corrosion, and chemicals.

In today’s modern world referring to the word ‘asbestos’ doesn’t align itself with a positive reputation. That’s because it is now considered a mineral that can come with deadly consequences.

However, it wasn’t always that way, as asbestos was widely used from the 1930s to the early 1980s. The mineral was popular due to its resistance to heat and was used for:

Asbestos-cement sheet cladding, roofing, and drainage pipes
Backing material for floor tiles and vinyl sheets
Textured ceilings and sprayed-on wall surfaces
Insulation board for thermal protection

In 1984, the import of raw amphibole (blue and brown) asbestos into New Zealand was banned. In 2002 the import of chrysotile (white) asbestos was also banned. In 2015 the government announced that the importation of asbestos would be completely banned with very limited exceptions.

What does asbestos look like?

Asbestos doesn’t have an instinctive look and it can look like shiny rocks at a distance. However, up close, it consists of long, thin fibrous crystals.

There are three main types of asbestos:

Chrysotile (white asbestos)

Chrysotile is the most used form of asbestos. It can be found today in the roofs, ceilings, walls, and floors of homes and businesses

Amosite (brown asbestos)

Amosite was frequently used in cement sheets and pipe insulation. It can also be found in insulating boards, ceiling tiles, and thermal insulation products.

Crocidolite (blue asbestos)

Crocidolite was commonly used to insulate steam engines. It was also used in some spray-on coatings, pipe insulation, plastics, and cement product.

What are the health risks of asbestos?

Different kinds of asbestos have different risk factors, but what they all have in common is that they are all dangerous to your health.

When residential construction products made with asbestos are damaged, those fibres become airborne and could pose a danger to anyone who inhales the toxic dust. These fibres can become permanently trapped in the body. Over decades, trapped asbestos fibres can cause inflammation, scarring, lung disease, genetic damage, and the rare and fatal cancer called mesothelioma.

How can you identify asbestos in your home?

You will unlikely find obvious rock formations of asbestos around your home or commercial building.

Instead, asbestos will be embedded into building products, insulation, in the middle of fire doors, lino flooring, roofing materials, gutters, ceiling tiles, and water pipes to name a few.

According to WorkSafe “Buildings constructed or renovated before 2000 are likely to contain asbestos materials.”

Asbestos materials in good condition will not release asbestos fibres, therefore disturbing it may create a health hazard where none existed before. This is because when these materials become damaged, asbestos fibres become airborne and release toxic particles.

If you suspect a part of your home may contain asbestos, then check for water damage, tears, and abrasions. If any material is damaged then seek professional advice.

The best thing to do with asbestos material in good condition is to choose an asbestos encapsulation.

Why choose asbestos encapsulation over removal?

Your first thought when asbestos comes to mind may be to remove asbestos completely. While this is understandable, it may not be in your best interest as it’s often a complicated and expensive procedure that could be prevented if you choose asbestos encapsulation instead.

Asbestos encapsulation involves covering the asbestos with our Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant and our Moss and Mould solution.

This coating will help:

Protect and repair any damaged asbestos
Increase the life of the material
Protects against accidental knocks and scrapes
Reduces any fibre release through general degradation
Improves the overall appearance of any material including the roof
A protective coating is safe and will help cut costs down
Eradicates the need to dispose of hazardous materials

For more information click here for your free application guide.

Asbestos encapsulation solutions

There’s nothing more important than minimizing health risks around your home or commercial building.

Asbestos encapsulation could help prevent future damage and health risks, which makes this an ideal option worth looking into.

Asbestos encapsulation is a highly effective, affordable way of managing asbestos that will save you time and most importantly, involves relatively little disturbance of the asbestos, therefore minimizing risk.

Contact us today if you would like to know more about our asbestos encapsulation solutions and download our free step-by-step application guide.

Not only are our range of products quick and easy to use, but we provide DIY products that are environmentally friendly, non-toxic, cost-effective, and of the highest quality.

Our products are ideal for home or professional use and stocked at most Mitre10 stores nationwide; Kiwis all over New Zealand have been successfully using our products in their backyards for years.

If you need any advice feel free to contact our friendly and expert staff who will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

What is the best way to repair cracks in your concrete driveway?

January 26, 2022 by The Cohe Team

If you’re like most home or business owners, you are likely to have a concrete driveway.

Driveways are one of the first impressions of a home or business, so it’s essential to keep your driveway in its ultimate condition to keep up the appeal.

While small cracks in your driveway may be a sign of old age, there may be many other things causing these cracks, which can lead to expensive repair bills if not taken care of quickly.

So, what is the best way to repair cracks in your concrete driveway?

Let us tell you!

What can cause cracks in your concrete driveway

Cracks in concrete can be expected and caused by many things such as:

Poor driveway foundation and base installation
Too much weight, like heavy vehicles, can easily crack your driveway
Concrete is prone to heat expansion, which can cause cracking. As it heats up, concrete expands and pushes outwards, which will break to relieve the pressure build-up
Tree roots and soil movement can grow and spread beneath your driveway. Therefore, to release the pressure it causes, cracks will begin to surface
Plastic shrinkage. When the concrete is still in its plastic state before the hardening phase, it is full of water. This water takes up space and makes the slab a certain size. As the slab loses moisture while curing it gets a bit smaller
If the concrete dries too quickly, it will lose moisture which can cause fine cracks throughout the concrete
The use of an inadequate concrete mix or improper application
Extreme weather conditions

How to tell your concrete driveway needs repairing

Cracks appearing in the concrete

Signs of aging

Like everything, expect concrete to age over time. A combination of cracks, pooling water, potholes, and unevenness are all signs of damage caused by aging. The concrete will have noticeable signs of aging and will look worn out.

An uneven appearance

Another sign that concrete repair is necessary is if your concrete floors, external areas, or walls seem uneven. If you fail to take action when you notice your concrete areas are no longer even, you could end up with a serious issue. This includes crumbling and breaking, which causes instability and could also lead to injury.

Potholes

What is the best way to repair your concrete driveway?

Though concrete is a durable surface, concrete driveways deteriorate and will develop cracks over the years. Instead of going through the expense of removing the concrete altogether, you may be able to repair the cracks yourself while saving you some money.

It’s a good idea to wear rubber gloves, safety glasses, long sleeves, and long pants that will help protect your skin.

Before the driveway can be repaired, it must be thoroughly cleaned. Clean out all loose chunks or debris using a stiff broom or a leaf blower to achieve a good surface to bond with.

For top-quality results, we recommend using Cohe Quick Clean that will remove mold, mildew, and dirt.

And, now it’s time to repair those concrete cracks in your driveway, and the best way is by using MG-KRETE.

Repair your cracks with MG-KRETE

MG-KRETE is ideal for an unlimited range of concrete repairs, including:

Roadways
Potholes
Footpaths
Driveways
Industrial Floors
Parking Decks
Trip Hazards
Access Ramps
Steps & Stairs

It cures rapidly, so most applications can be returned to service within 45 minutes!

MG-KRETE lasts much longer and withstands wear and heavy traffic superior to traditional cement-based patch material. Not only does it repair damaged concrete, but it restores structural integrity, whether in thin overlays or pouring into forms, and it can be troweled vertically or overhead.

It has a tenacious bond and does not shrink, creating a surface that is more impervious to moisture, salt, gas, and oils, and requires no long-term maintenance.

MG-KRETE is your perfect solution for all domestic, commercial, and industrial concrete repairs.

Download our free and simple application guide along with other helpful information that will get your concrete driveway looking its best this summer!

For more professional advice, you can contact us, and one of our friendly and experienced team members will be happy to help you with your DIY project.

The best concrete waterproofing sealer that’s quick and easy to use

December 14, 2021 by The Cohe Team

Are you looking for a concrete waterproofing sealer that’s quick and easy to use?

Concrete maintenance is often one of the last things to be looked at on a DIY to-do list, and with the different types of concrete available, it can be difficult to know how to maintain it.

If your home or business has concrete that needs to be kept in its ultimate condition that’s protected against water damage – then we’re here to tell you about the best concrete waterproofing sealer that will get your job done!

Why use a concrete waterproofing sealer?

Standard concrete may seem strong enough on its own without any waterproofing sealer or repair treatment. Concrete may already seem waterproof; however, that’s not entirely the case.

Concrete is naturally porous and prone to water absorption. The tiny pores of a concrete slab and foundation can absorb water if not treated with a waterproofing concrete sealer.

Using a concrete waterproofing sealer prevents cracks from forming, and the more cracks that appear, the more water can get in.

The wear and tear of concrete will slowly show over time, but if the surface of the concrete starts to deteriorate, then the inside structure may be as well.

This deterioration is what you want to avoid. Not only can this turn into a big job to fix, but a timely and costly one too.

Prevention is crucial, and using a waterproof sealant provides the answer.

Additional benefits to using a concrete waterproof sealant:

Reduce excessive mould and mildew build-up
Water resistance and dampness prevention
Strengthened structure – less moisture, fewer cracks, and less vulnerability to all weather elements
Increased property value – having waterproofed concrete in all the areas of your home or business gives potential buyers the confidence there won’t be any costly maintenance issues
A rich and glossy appearance that looks clean and professional
A finish that helps resist acid, oil, grease, and general stains

What concrete sealer should I use?

The best concrete waterproofing sealer that’s quick and easy to use is our range of Cohe products, including our popular Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant.

Installing Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant and Liquid Rubber Smooth Coating is simple and easy!

Ensure a clean, dry surface using Cohe Quick Clean.
Bridge joints and cracks with Liquid Rubber Seam Tape.
Apply 1 Layer of Liquid Rubber Primer. 1 litre does 2 square metres. Leave it to dry for 12 hours.
Apply Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant using a brush or roller from our Application Kit

Coverage:

apply a minimum final thickness of 1 litre per 1 square meter; it should be around 2-3 heavy coats
20 litre pail will coat up to 40 square meters
for larger areas you can pour out and roll around
Apply the next coat after 12 hours – tacky is okay
Apply above 10 degrees celsius

Do not apply when rain or dew is forecast.

Waterproof and repair your concrete the easy way

If you want to waterproof your concrete, there’s no easier way than Liquid Rubber.

Our Liquid Rubber is just one of the amazing waterproofing products here at Cohe.

Not only are our range of products quick and easy to use, but we provide DIY products that are environmentally friendly, non-toxic, cost-effective, and of the highest quality.

We are well-established in the market and stocked at most Mitre10 stores nationwide; Liquid Rubber is a winner and has helped Kiwis all over New Zealand in their backyards for years.

Our products are ideal for home or professional use.

Fix your concrete this summer with confidence and call us today or download our free application guide that will get you on your way to finishing your concrete project.

Get in touch with any questions you have about how we can help you with any DIY project, and one of our experienced team members is happy to help.

Waterproof your caravan in time for the summer holidays

November 24, 2021 by The Cohe Team

Do you need to waterproof your caravan in time for the summer holidays?

With summer just around the corner, kiwis around the country are gearing up to explore our beautiful outdoors.

But, as many of you will know, travelling with a leaky caravan or RV can dampen your kiwi adventure.

That’s why waterproofing your caravan is vital in making sure you’re prepared for that long-awaited summer holiday!

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO WATERPROOF YOUR CARAVAN

Before putting your caravan back out on the road, it’s important to make sure your caravan is waterproofed to endure unexpected weather conditions but also to prevent long-term damage.

Water leaks in a caravan can lead to rotten timber frames, buckling, blistering, and black
mould can form in the lining of the caravan, which poses a potential health risk.

In addition, the interior of your caravan can be damaged. The repair costs will leave you
digging deep into your pocket! To prevent this happening, waterproof your caravan now to
save you time and money in the long run.

HOW TO FIND A LEAK IN YOUR CARAVAN

Finding a leak in your caravan may not be as obvious as you think, especially if you don’t
know what you are looking for.

To start, look for any wear and tear, cracks, thinning, or any other type of damage in the
following places:

Start on the roof and the skylight of your caravan
The water tanks
The water heater and the AC
Check the areas around the doors and windows (generally at the bottom, for signs of water ingress.)
Check the sealing around any items that are attached to the caravan, like the number plates and bike racks

A common way to find a leak is to do a water test. Thoroughly wet your caravan, then watch to see if there is any water seeping through (particularly from the roof and windows).

Signs your caravan could be leaking:

Sounds of water dripping when taps and toiletries are not in use
Water spots, drips, or stains on the walls
Discoloration of the ply
Water spots on the floor inside the caravan
Water spots on the ground outside the caravan

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU FIND A LEAK

To make sure you have found the source of the leak, do a water test with a hose.

If the leak has been unnoticed for some time, then check for mould, dampness, wood rot and water damage or staining on the ply inside the caravan.

Regular inspection of the seals, at least twice a year, will help to minimize the risk of water
infiltration and leaks in a caravan.

Once the leak is located, make sure the surface is clean and dry before repairing it. If you are going to repair the caravan yourself, don’t resort to silicone cartridges that can be corrosive and eat into the aluminum cladding.

We recommend using a sealant.

There are many sealant products on the market to choose from, and you want to be sure to get it right the first time!

Use a sealant that’s specifically designed for caravans and RVs as this will give you the
confidence to restore and protect your caravan so you can enjoy those summer holidays.

LIQUID RUBBER WATERPROOF SEALANT

There is one quick, easy and affordable solution, Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant!

Liquid Rubber is a multi-purpose, liquid coating that solidifies into a tough, waterproof
membrane, and can be used for waterproofing, as an air barrier, and protection against
corrosion.

This amazing product can be applied like any normal paint using a brush, roller or spray
pump to most surfaces, including metal, concrete, wood, bitumen and metals.

The versatile nature of Liquid Rubber also means that it can reach those hard-to-get places that traditional waterproofing solutions can’t.

Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant is:

Environmentally friendly
Water-based, non-toxic, solvent-free and contains no VOC’s (volatile organic
compounds )
It’s lasting effects means you don’t need to reapply for at least a decade
It’s safe and easy to use
Cost-effective

WATERPROOF YOUR CARAVAN TODAY

If you want to waterproof your caravan or RV, there’s really no easier way than Liquid
Rubber Waterproof Sealant.

Our Liquid Rubber is just one of the amazing waterproofing products we have here at Cohe that are affordable, effective, simple and easy to use.

Don’t let water leaks damage your caravan or your road trips this summer.

Download our simple step by step application guide to waterproofing your caravan today!

Contact us if you would like to know more about our waterproofing solutions, as our friendly and experienced staff are happy to help with any DIY project big or small.