Installation Guide
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 5 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 the
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.
What do I do with them when I’m done?
Quick Dams are environmentally friendly and can be disposed
of in the trash. Polymer contents will degrade with UV
exposure, pressure and time, leaving an empty pouch that can
be thrown in the trash. Gelled contents can be cut out of bag &
spread on lawn or garden to provide temporary moisture until
degradation occurs, typically within a few days. Contents will
be VERY slippery, so keep off of walkways to prevent
slip & fall accidents.
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.
Can Quick Dams be used indoors and outdoors?
Yes they can, although they will be moist, so be careful when
leaving them on oors that are susceptible to water damage.
What stops Quick Dams from rolling away?
Quick Dam Flood Barriers have an extra wedge stitched
along its length that acts as a wedge & prevents them
from rolling away.
THE NEXT GENERATION IN FLOOD PROTECTION
TM
Frequently Asked Questions
FLOOD BAGS
& BARRIERS
FLOOD BAGS
& BARRIERS