Spray
In general terms, the word 'spray' refers to any liquid that is blown or driven through the air in the form of small droplets.
Approved document C: Site preparation and resistance to contaminants and moisture, 2004 edition incorporating 2010 and 2013 amendments defines spray as: ‘Water droplets driven by the wind from the surface of the sea or other bodies of water adjacent to buildings. Sea spray can be especially hazardous to materials because of its salt content.’
In the construction industry more widely, the term 'spray' has a number of other possible meanings, such as:
- Spray Concrete (Shotcrete). A method of applying concrete or mortar using a high-velocity hose. It is commonly used for tunnel linings, structural repairs, and retaining walls.
- Spray Plastering. The application of plaster using a machine instead of manual troweling. This speeds up the process and provides a smooth finish.
- Spray Insulation. The application of liquid foam insulation, which expands to fill gaps, providing thermal and sound insulation.
- Spray Painting. The use of spray guns to apply paint or protective coatings on surfaces, including metalwork, wood, or walls.
- Dust or Water Spray. The use of water mist or suppressant sprays to reduce airborne dust on construction sites, improving air quality and worker safety.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Approved document C.
- Approved documents.
- Building regulations.
- Condensation.
- Contaminated land.
- Cover systems for land regeneration - thickness of cover systems for contaminated land (BR465).
- Deleterious materials.
- Ground conditions.
- Hazardous substances.
- Radon.
- Radon: Guidance on protective measures for new buildings BR 211.
- Types of damp-proof courses.
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