Managing Fibromyalgia in the Heat and Humidity

Summer is in full swing, and the thermometer is climbing. But while many people look forward to warmer temperatures, those with fibromyalgia may face the turning of the seasons with a sense of dread.

Some fibromyalgia patients know they can expect a flare-up in fibromyalgia symptoms from heat and high humidity; others agonize during cold weather months. One Portuguese study found that 70 percent of patients with various rheumatic conditions, including fibromyalgia, felt that weather changes had an influence on their pain.

“A lot of studies have shown that patients have sensitivity to pain with both temperature extremes,” says Lynne Matallana, founder and president of the National Fibromyalgia Association. “I know people who have packed up and moved their families because they felt another part of the country would be more comfortable for them. It can be that intense.”

Why Temperature Affects Fibromyalgia

Research has found that people with fibromyalgia exposed to hot temperatures report increases in:

• Muscle pain
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Depression

Other fibromyalgia patients have reported feeling these symptoms in cold weather. “Any type of extreme weather change can make a difference,” Matallana says. “Our bodies don’t seem to be able to adapt as well as those of healthy people.”

Interestingly, people with fibromyalgia who report sensitivity at one temperature extreme often have no problem with the other extreme. “Most patients find they do better at one of the extremes or the other,” Matallana says. Folks who suffer in Florida often thrive in Alaska, and vice versa.

Medical experts aren’t sure exactly why heat has such a detrimental effect on some fibromyalgia patients. Studies, however, have provided some clues:

• Problems regulating body heat. Research has found that people with fibromyalgia have difficulty habituating themselves to temperature changes. Heat may bother people with fibromyalgia because they don’t perspire as easily as others. “Because there’s limited blood flow in the skin, there’s less ability to sweat,” Matallana says. As body heat rises, fibromyalgia patients suffer fevers and muscle pain, and are also more likely to have heat rashes and heat stroke.
• Dehydration. Fibromyalgia patients become dehydrated easily, which can lead to headaches, pain, and fatigue.
• Sleeplessness. A lack of sleep often can make fibromyalgia symptoms worse, and hot, muggy nights make sleep difficult. “People oftentimes end up trying to use air conditioning or fans, and those also disrupt their sleep,” Matallana said.

High humidity seems to exacerbate these symptoms, possibly because it makes the heat feel even more oppressive. Patients with a sensitivity to cold also report feeling worse in humid, clammy conditions.

Warm Weather Coping Strategies

When the weather gets warm, fibromyalgia patients with heat sensitivity need to pay close attention to their bodies. To protect yourself, you should:

• Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink lots of water, and don’t wait until you are thirsty before you drink. Dehydration can precede actual thirst. Carry a water bottle around and sip from it often. Avoid drinking alcohol, as it can cause you to lose body fluids. Don’t drink liquids that are overly cold, as they can cause cramping.
• Stay cool. Use air conditioning to keep your home cool. If you don’t have air conditioning, get a respite from the heat at an air-conditioned mall or movie theater. Take cool showers or baths, or go for a swim. Using a cold pack can help you cool off and ease muscle pain. Cool, damp cloths on your neck or ice cubes dabbed on your wrists can ease the effects of the heat, too.
• Stay comfortable. Wear light, comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that breathes. Choose bright colors or whites; dark colors absorb heat.

Fluctuations in temperature can make your fibromyalgia feel worse. But once you know which extreme bothers you the most, you can plan ahead and spend time indoors where you can better control the conditions.

Heat Survival With Fibromyalgia and ME/CFS

Warm or hot weather can be taxing for those of us with fibromyalgia (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), even when temperatures are extreme enough to bother most people. You may find yourself overheated, sweating profusely, with your hands and feet puffing up and your pain and fatigue going through the roof.

So what’s behind this symptom? Why does heat bother us and cause so many symptoms to kick up?

creacart/Getty Images

First of all, it’s because many of us have temperature sensitivities to either heat, cold or both. We have a larger physiological response to temperature than other people.

We don’t know a lot about this symptom at the moment, but we know enough to suspect that it’s the result of dysfunction in our autonomic nervous system, which is the part of the nervous system that deals with homeostasis.

“Homeostasis” means that the body tries to keep itself stable and regulated in certain ways. Your heart beats at a certain speed, you breathe in and out at a certain speed, your internal temperature stays within certain parameters, etc.

In these conditions, though, homeostasis doesn’t seem to do a very good job of some things.  So, basically, our bodies just don’t regulate temperature properly. The result is that we tend to be more affected by our surroundings than healthy people are.

This isn’t a symptom that’s easy to treat. In fact, none of our common treatments even attempt to target it. That means we have to learn to manage it on our own. We need to figure out how to cool ourselves down when we overheat, but even more importantly, we need to keep ourselves from getting too hot in the first place.

Preventing Heat Problems

The best ways to keep from getting too hot are pretty obvious: keep your environment cool and stay inside when the temperature is too high for comfort. However, those techniques aren’t always possible and could keep you from doing a lot of things you enjoy.

For those times when you can’t avoid the heat, keeping yourself cool takes some forethought and preparation. Some good ways include:

• Sticking to cold food and drinks
• Using an umbrella for shade
• Wearing a visor instead of a hat (so your body heat can dissipate through your head instead of being trapped there)
• Wearing loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics
• Avoiding hot baths or showers, or rinsing with cool water before getting out
• Avoiding hair-styling products that use heat, such as blow dryers or flat irons

Some people with these conditions find that showers are a bad idea, due to the heat and several other factors.

You probably have to limit your activity levels anyway due to your illness, but take special care to limit how active you are in a warm environment.

Cooling Off

When you do get overheated, you’ll likely feel better if you can cool yourself off right away. We tend to have a harder time with this than other people, as well.

When you’re at home, you might be helped by things like ice packs, cold compresses or washcloths, or soaking your feet in cool water.

You’ll want to be able to cool down when you’re away from home, as well, and that can take some extra preparation.

Some ideas include:

• Carrying a cooler with ice, ice packs, and cold drinks
• Running cold water over your hands and/or splashing it on your face
• Keeping cooling products on hand
• Wearing layers
• Wearing sandals or slip-on shoes that don’t require socks

However, we can face a special problem when it comes to these cooling methods. If cold items are too cold for you to tolerate, they may cause a spike in pain or other symptoms. That’s due to a symptom called thermal allodynia.

A Special Problem: Allodynia

Allodynia is a type of pain that comes from something that wouldn’t normally be painful. With thermal allodynia, temperatures that don’t damage tissues or even bother healthy people may cause extreme pain in us.

That means an ice pack on a hot forehead may be a bad idea. Try gentler methods, like a cold washcloth, so you don’t shock your system.

You may also have to worry about mechanical allodynia, which is pain from something moving across the skin, and that can include air.

That means a fan or air conditioner blowing right on you may trigger significant amounts of pain, as well. If you can’t help but be in the path of blowing air, you might be helped by covering your skin with a light fabric.

A Word From Verywell

Many people who have trouble with overheating may have the opposite problem of getting too cold.  It’s important to learn about keeping yourself warm as well as the underlying symptom of temperature sensitivity.

The more you understand what’s going on in your body, the more you’re able to compensate for these kinds of problems. It may seem overwhelming at first, but if you work to develop good habits, all this will eventually become second nature.

People with Fibromyalgia May Be More Sensitive to Heat and Sound

People with fibromyalgia are often hypersensitive to muscle, joint, and widespread pain. Now, new research suggests people who have this disorder may be more sensitive to heat and sound, too.

In a small study, published in the Journal of Pain, researchers tested 51 people for their response to noise and temperature stimuli. Of the group, 23 people had fibromyalgia and 28 did not. All fibromyalgia patients were tapered off their psychotropic medications (such as antidepressants) and pain medications prior to the study but continued to take medications for any comorbid conditions.

Each study participant listened to sounds played through earphones and was asked to rate them based on how mild or intense they sounded. In another part of the study, participants had varying levels of heat or pressure applied to their hands and legs and asked to rate their discomfort.

“Using three different stimulus intensities, our psychophysical investigation of auditory sensitivity provided evidence that [fibromyalgia] patients require less sound pressure to report similar loudness ratings than [healthy controls],” the authors found.

In other words, people with fibromyalgia demonstrated more sensitivity to sounds, and found lower-volume sounds to be more intense, than people without fibromyalgia.

Meanwhile, fibromyalgia patients reported pain at lower levels of pressure and heat compared to what caused healthy participants the same amount of discomfort.

“Many previous reports have suggested that central nervous system augmentation in [fibromyalgia] is not limited to pain but may also affect sound, light, taste and smell,” the researchers wrote. “However, until now, no definitive laboratory evidence of abnormal loudness augmentation was available.”

The authors noted that such sensitivities are often dismissed as being psychological in nature — or, as patients commonly hear, “it’s all in your head.” This study, albeit small, adds to the evidence that nervous system problems likely make people with fibromyalgia patients perceive sound, temperature, and touch as more severe compared to how people without fibromyalgia experience them.

Additional, larger studies will be needed to confirm these findings. The researchers noted that they are also interested in investigating whether fibromyalgia patients might respond differently to light and smell.

Track Your Symptoms with ArthritisPower.

Join CreakyJoints’ patient-centered research registry and track symptoms like fatigue and pain. Learn more and sign up here.

15 Of The Best Places To Live With Fibromyalgia (And Vacation!)

Chronic pain, fatigue, and depression are symptoms that lead to a daily battle for the ten million people in the U. S. suffering from fibromyalgia. If you’re trying to cope with this condition, you know it can affect every part of your life. Even simple daily tasks feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, certain types of weather can have a significant impact on how you feel. If you’re struggling with symptoms of fibromyalgia, you may want to consider a change of climate. Read on for a list of the best places to live with fibromyalgia.

Not sure if you’re ready to move? You’ll also find recommendations for vacation spots!

What are the best types of places to live with fibromyalgia?

The underlying cause of fibromyalgia is still unclear, which is why doctors continue to research this condition.

However, many people diagnosed with fibromyalgia say that weather has an effect on how they feel. Sudden drops in barometric pressure, as well as extreme temperatures may make pain much worse. Though it may not help all fibromyalgia sufferers, finding a better climate may help ease some symptoms of this condition.

Is warm weather better for fibromyalgia?

In short, the answer is generally yes. Most fibromyalgia sufferers report feeling much better during periods of temperate warm weather. Spring seems to be the best time of year due to the relatively mild conditions in most places.

As you begin to browse cities with warm weather, it’s important to remember a few things.

In many areas across the United States, particularly the South, warm weather also comes along with humidity. This only gets worse as it becomes hotter during the summer months. Thunderstorms and rain are another common occurrence in these places, which isn’t ideal for most fibromyalgia sufferers. While every case is different, it is common for humidity to be a trigger when it comes to an uptick in symptoms.

For states with warm weather and low humidity, such as desert climates, the battle may be during months of extreme heat. Of course, this can present issues when you’re outside, but it can also be a struggle indoors. This is because many offices, restaurants, and shops will have the A/C on at full power to combat the heat.

What type of weather is best?

Only you can answer this question as each person experiences fibromyalgia in their own way.

Consider starting a daily journal. Record the temperature and conditions of the day, along with a few notes about your symptoms. This will help you pinpoint what type of weather is best for you. Does a thunderstorm make you ache? Are temperatures over 90 degrees too much to handle? Take everything into consideration.

In general, a temperate climate is most beneficial for anyone with fibromyalgia. This would include areas with low humidity and infrequent rain. While no city is going to be perfect 365 days out of the year, it is possible to find areas that experience very few days of extreme weather conditions.

What other factors should I consider?

Moving is a big decision, so your choice shouldn’t be based solely on weather. There are several other factors to consider as you think about places you’d like to live.

First, what is the healthcare system like in the state you’re considering? You should have access to affordable care and reputable hospitals. This is important for anyone, but it’s especially significant when you’re coping with a condition like fibromyalgia. For example, states like Arizona and Utah have good healthcare systems with access to pain specialists (like the ones you’ll find at Arizona Pain, of course!).

Next, cost of living should be a factor. For example, California may be ideal for weather, but an average home costs well over half a million dollars in most places. Browse Zillow or team up with a realtor to find out more about the housing market before you pick up and move to a new city.

Lastly, think about the quality of life in each place you’re considering. You should be happy wherever you land! If you love to play tennis or mountain bike, it’ll be important to live somewhere that allows for these outdoor activities on a year-round basis. Perhaps you are nearing retirement and would rather relax on a beach? You’ll want to choose a place with easy coastal access.

It’s important to look beyond fibromyalgia weather and think about the big picture before you start packing.

The best places to live with fibromyalgia

With that, let’s jump right in. Here is our list of the best places to live with fibromyalgia. While these will differ for everyone, we think these are a good place to start.

1. Phoenix, Arizona

Sunny Arizona has a lot to offer fibromyalgia sufferers, especially the capital city of Phoenix. With an average year-round temperature of 75 degrees and just 36 days of rainfall, this is a great place to find warmth with little humidity.

Phoenix also boasts low cost of living and some of the best healthcare access in the country. Facilities like Mayo Clinic and Arizona Pain provide top notch care for people struggling with symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Lastly, it’s a great place to enjoy the great outdoors. With access to endless hiking trails, park systems, and community aquatic centers, there is always something to do if you enjoy an active lifestyle.

2. Tucson, Arizona

If you’re interested in Arizona, but looking for a smaller city, you’ll find Tucson just two hours down the road. You’ll find the same temperate climate and access to outdoor activities, plus a rich cultural scene that is unique to Tucson.

Even better? While it’s a slower pace in comparison to Phoenix, you’re only a short drive away if there is something you can’t find in Tucson. Temperatures also tend to be a little less extreme.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

While you may not think of Sin City as a great place to live, you’d be surprised by how much the city has to offer when you leave the Strip. There are surrounding suburbs that are affordable, safe, and most importantly, warm!

While you will have to deal with extreme temperatures during the summer months, you can beat the heat in the pool or make an escape. Las Vegas is also home to a major international airport with thousands of inbound and outbound flights every day.

4. San Diego, California

The Golden State touts year-round ideal weather and San Diego is no exception. With an average of just three days over 90 degrees, this is a perfect spot for anyone who wants to avoid extreme heat.

While it isn’t considered one of the most budget-friendly places to live, there is certainly no shortage of things to do. From beaches to restaurants, you’ll never be bored. Enjoy the sunshine and views!

5. Palm Springs, California

Not a fan of the ocean breeze? Head inland to Palm Springs. This city in the Sonoran Desert of southern California is perfect for anyone in need of sunshine and relaxed living.

It is known for an extensive list of golf courses, spas, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor sports and leisure.

6. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Residents of Santa Fe love the city’s desert climate. You won’t have to worry about humidity and fibromyalgia. Plus, air quality is above the national average.

History buffs enjoy the Pueblo-style architecture and landmarks. Art and culture can be found everywhere in this capital city, which makes it ideal for creative types.

7. Albuquerque, New Mexico

If New Mexico interests you, but you’re looking for more of a “big city” feel, Albuquerque may be your answer.

While it offers a similar moderate climate as Santa Fe, you’ll have access to a wonderful culinary scene and plenty of museums. The city is also best known for hot air ballon rides, especially the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

8. St. George, Utah

If you continue exploring the Southwestern region, you’ll find St. George, Utah. While summer temperatures will reach 100 degrees, winter is relatively mild and dry. Top things to do include fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Cost of living is affordable and the scenery is gorgeous.

Bonus tip: St. George is just 90 minutes from the bright lights of fabulous Las Vegas. That means you’re only a short drive away from some of the best restaurants and entertainment in the country.

9. El Paso, Texas

In west Texas, right on the border of both Mexico and New Mexico, you’ll find El Paso. The dry climate is sunny and warm most days, but it’s also home to several state-of-the-art medical centers. This makes it a good option for anyone dealing with a chronic pain condition.

With a median home listing price of $130,600, it’s also an affordable city that will stretch your dollar.

10. Daytona Beach, Florida

We know what you’re thinking, Florida is pretty humid, especially during the summer months. But if humidity isn’t a trigger for your fibromyalgia symptoms, Daytona Beach may be a great option.

The average temperature is 70 degrees, which makes it a temperate climate for frequent trips to the beach! Plus, you’ll have access to several different medical centers. Another plus? If you can’t find something you need in Daytona Beach, Orlando is just an hour away.

11. Athens, Georgia

Athens moves us away from some of the very warm areas on this list. For some fibromyalgia sufferers, warmth isn’t as important as consistent mild temperatures. Athens averages temperatures in the 60s, which makes it cooler, yet constant.

Home of the University of Georgia, Athens has a small southern town feel with a vibrant community. Bonus tip: Georgia is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees living on a fixed income.

12. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is another city that runs on the cooler end of the spectrum. With an average temperature of 56 degrees and about ten inches of snow per year, it has more winter weather than the other spots listed here.

That said, the healthcare industry is a big part of the Asheville economy, and there is plenty of access to outdoor activities and things to do.

The best places to vacation with fibromyalgia

Let’s face it, you don’t want to spend your entire life sitting at home. Here are some of the best vacation spots for people living with fibromyalgia. They’re easy to get to and have something for everyone.

13. Oahu, Hawaii

A trip to paradise always sounds nice, right? Put an umbrella in your drink and experience Hawaii. From beaches to waterfalls, this state has all the makings for a great vacation.

The island of Oahu is a favorite among tourists. It is home to the state capital, Honolulu, as well as Pearl Harbor. Indulge in island life and embrace history, all in one trip.

14. Mexico City, Mexico

The capital city of Mexico is known for mild winters and pleasantly warm summers. With an average annual temperature of 64 degrees, this is a temperate spot to enjoy a true cultural experience.

Mexico City boasts multiple museums, cathedrals, and temples. Foodies will also enjoy a long list of highly-rated restaurants.

15. San Juan, Puerto Rico

You won’t find any freezing temperatures in San Juan. This Caribbean destination is clear or partly cloudy for about 75% of the year.

Enjoy beaches, casinos, and great restaurants in this U.S. territory. Just remember, hurricane season peaks in August, September, and October.

Living with fibromyalgia

They say home is where the heart is, but it’s not that simple when you’re living with fibromyalgia. If you’re dealing with erratic weather or don’t have access to quality healthcare, it may be time to consider a move.

As previously mentioned, Phoenix can be an ideal place to live for some fibro patients. Sunny days and quality medical care are just the beginning. If you find yourself headed this way, make an appointment with Arizona Pain. We’d love to help you manage your symptoms and improve your life. If Arizona isn’t in the cards, we invite you learn more about living with fibromyalgia on our pain management blog.

At Arizona Pain, our award-winning team uses a comprehensive approach to manage your pain. Call us today to find out more about how we can help.

4 Ways to Turn Up the Heat on Fibromyalgia

One of the most effective strategies for soothing the pain of fibromyalgia is also the simplest: apply heat. This can be especially helpful in winter, when Mother Nature is turning down the thermostat.

See What You Need to Know About Fibromyalgia

Heat therapy offers pain relief because it dilates the blood vessels of the muscles, boosting the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. By stimulating sensory receptors in the skin, it also reduces pain signals to the brain, which is why you usually feel better after using a heating pad.

See Applying Heat vs. Cold to an Arthritic Joint

Video: How to Make a Homemade Heat Pack

Save

For people who experience aches and pain from fibromyalgia, moist heat can be good at penetrating into sore muscles. Watch: Video: How to Make a Homemade Heat Pack

Some people find dry heat most helpful, while others prefer moist heat. Moist heat can be especially good at penetrating into sore muscles, but the choice is up to you.v

See 9 Easy Ways to Apply Heat to an Arthritic Joint

A heating pad or hot wrap you heat up in the microwave is a great place to start. You can easily buy or make one to have at the ready when it’s needed.

But you don’t need to stop there. Here are 4 other ways to use heat therapy to ease fibromyalgia aches and pains:

advertisement

1. Take the plunge

If you groan just hearing the word exercise, warm-water therapy could be just what you need. Whether you join a water exercise class or work one-on-one with a physical therapist, the warmth of the water—usually 83 degrees or higher—relaxes your muscles, leading to increased flexibility. The natural buoyancy of the water helps, too.

See Water Workouts Ease Fibromyalgia Pain

You’ll discover you can move much more comfortably in the water than on land. Over time, many people who participate in water therapy also get better at land-based exercises. To find a class, check local recreation centers and fitness clubs.

See Water Therapy Exercise Program

2. Bring the spa home

When it comes to deep heat to ease pain and stiffness, it’s hard to beat warm paraffin wax. Spas offer paraffin to soothe and moisturize the skin. You can get all these benefits at home by buying a portable paraffin warmer.

See Multi-Specialty Fibromyalgia Treatment

Paraffin wax warmers for home use have a tub about the size of a crockpot. You place chunks of solid paraffin wax into the tub, turn on the machine, and wait for the wax to melt and liquefy. Then you dip a hand, elbow, or foot into the wax. The soothing warmth lingers as it solidifies. Once it cools, you peel off the wax and put it back into the warmer to reuse later. You can buy these warmers at discount and specialty stores or order one online.

3. Consider a furry friend

Fibromyalgia’s unpredictable nature can strain social ties when you have to cancel plans at the last minute. A pet, on the other hand, is always ready to be your buddy, snuggling up against you and keeping you warm day and night. Some people even like to place a cat or small dog on a painful part of their body, to act as a live heating pad.

Having a furry friend can also help with anxiety and depression, which are more common if you have fibromyalgia. Pet shelters and animal rescue organizations are good places to look for a pet.

See Managing Depression

4. Try heated clothing

As temperatures drop, going outside can add to the discomfort of fibromyalgia. This winter, put technology to use with the latest battery-warmed jackets, gloves, shoe insoles, and socks.

If you’ll be sitting outside for an extended time, bring along a heated stadium seat cushion.

Learn more:

Characteristic Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

How Mind-Body Techniques Help With Fibromyalgia

Managing Fibromyalgia During the Summer

While many of us look forward to heading outdoors during the warmer summer months, those who suffer from fibromyalgia might not be so enthusiastic.

Studies have shown that patients with fibromyalgia have pain sensitivity to both warm and cold weather extremes. People have even been known to move to more temperate climates to avoid extreme weather.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread discomfort in the muscles and bones, general fatigue, sleeplessness, and other cognitive problems. The National Fibromyalgia Association estimates that over 5 million Americans suffer from the disorder.

Doctors and researchers still don’t know what causes fibromyalgia but believe that hereditary characteristics combined with a triggering event like trauma, infection, or stress are the source of the disorder.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia are similar to those of other conditions, and there is no definitive test to confirm its diagnosis. Because of this, fibromyalgia is commonly misdiagnosed.

Although fibromyalgia can be difficult to treat, there are therapies, medications, and habits you can use to manage your symptoms and be less miserable during those simmering summer months.

Surviving the Heat with Fibromyalgia

People with fibromyalgia have reported feeling the following symptoms during warm weather:

• Swollen hands and feet
• Heat sensitivity
• Excessive sweat, red face, nausea, dizziness, headaches
• Increase in pain and fatigue
• Dry mouth and throat
• Disturbed sleep

Doctors recommend paying close attention to your symptoms during the summer so you can better manage your condition. Here are some tips that can improve your overall well-being:

1. Stay Hydrated

Drink water throughout the day by carrying a bottle of water with you, taking small sips at regular intervals. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink because it will cause you to dehydrate.

2. Avoid the Heat

Try to stick to air-conditioned environments, and if you do find yourself outside, make sure you protect yourself with a hat, umbrella, or sunscreen.

The last thing someone with fibromyalgia pain would want is to expose themselves to too much heat. Drops in barometric pressure, associated with changes in temperature, cause joint pain.

Plan to do your chores in the early morning or after sunset, and try to avoid strenuous outdoor activity. You also might consider a portable fan, placing a damp cloth on your neck, or dabbing ice cubes on your wrists to avoid getting overheated.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Refrain from wearing tight-fitting clothing and try to wear garments made with natural fibers like cotton because they will help your skin breathe. Lighter colors are better to wear because dark colors absorb heat, and light, loose-fitting clothing can make a world of difference.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

People with fibromyalgia have reported experiencing less pain when they have stuck to certain foods while avoiding others. Sound medical advice includes good nutrition, which can help prevent symptoms from getting worse.

Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein will help your body best deal with the chronic pain of fibromyalgia. Other dietary strategies include eating more plants than meat, drinking plenty of water, and reducing sugar intake.

People have also found that eating certain foods, like gluten or MSG, has made their pain worse. If this happens, individuals can keep a food diary to track what they ate and how it made them feel afterward.

5. Monitor the Air Quality

During the summer, people living with chronic pain should be aware of the air quality. Air pollution increases inflammation in the muscles and joints, including fibromyalgia. Before heading outdoors, check your local weather report to find out the Air Quality Index (AQI).

Learn More About Clinical Trials in Boston

Are you interested in participating in a clinical trial for fibromyalgia? We have a wide variety of clinical trials available if you qualify and meet specific criteria.

Learn more here

Can Warmer Weather Worsen Chronic Pain?

Although it can’t be entirely explained with an exact reason, it can’t be ignored that heat and humidity worsens chronic pain conditions. Patients report that their pain increases when there is a change in the weather, which can be directly correlated to a shift in barometric pressure. 

Rainy days are associated with chronic pain, when in fact, hot temperatures and high humidity levels are actually worse for pain. 

Barometric Pressure and Chronic Pain

The weight of the air in the atmosphere is called barometric pressure. It is affected by the weather: low pressure means a storm or rainy weather is in the forecast, and high pressure means a clear day. A drop in pressure is often related to an increased amount of pressure in the joints. 

Heat and humidity affects inflamed tissue and can negatively affect the way joints expand and contract. 

Common Pain Conditions Affected By Heat

• Headaches.  Tension headaches can be triggered by a change in weather. Shifts in humidity, temperature, and air pressure during the summer months can be a leading cause of dehydration, a common cause of headaches. 
• Arthritis. Nearly 5% of older people with osteoarthritis reported joint pain due to hot weather. People with inflammatory arthritis have joint pain when the temperature changes, due to tissues expanding and contracting. This triggers pain and uncomfortability. 
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Pain is not always a symptom that is associated with MS. However, it plays a large role in this chronic neurological disease. Anything that raises the body’s internal temperature can make the symptoms worse. A hot summer’s day worsens the pain, and in fact, it is so common that this condition has been named Uhthoff’s Syndrome. Once the body temperature has been regulated, the symptoms reduce and frequently go away.  
• Fibromyalgia. Weather and fibromyalgia symptoms are linked when the weather is humid. People who suffer from rheumatological conditions have “temperature sensitivity” meaning extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) have worsening effects on pain and symptoms. 

How to Prevent Pain from Heat

Heat in the summertime that causes joint pain can be prevented with a few tips and tricks. 

• Stay Hydrated. Drinking water and maintaining proper fluid and electrolyte levels is important to preventing pain and symptoms that are caused by dehydration. 
• Air Conditioning is Key. If heat and humidity cause pain flare ups, spending time in a regulated air conditioned area will maintain your body’s temperature. Too much time outside can affect joints and even have a negative effect on anti-inflammatory medication. 
• Water Exercises. Swimming and water aerobics are a great way to alleviate joint pain and cool off in the summer heat. Low-impact cardio is great for those with chronic pain. 
• Lightweight Clothing. Linen and light cotton clothing keep your body cool and allow it to breathe when it is hot. Tight clothing does not let sweat evaporate from the skin. 

Brozex – Tile adhesive

Preparation of the base:

When preparing the base and carrying out the work, it is recommended to follow SP 71.13330.2017. The substrate must have sufficient load-bearing capacity, dry, sound, free from dust, old paint, oil stains and other coatings that impair adhesion to the surface. Unevennesses, cracks and other defects of walls and floors must be leveled (1 day before work), we recommend using BROZEX REMSOSTAV 300.

The surface of the base must be treated with a primer corresponding to the base in one or more coats. Smooth, dense substrates, for example, monolithic concrete, must be primed with concrete contact.

Temperature range: during operation and during the next 3 days, the base temperature should be in the range from + 5 ° to + 30 ° C.

Precautions: the mixture contains cement, therefore work must be carried out with rubber gloves. Use a respirator or gauze bandage to protect the respiratory tract. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water.

Waste disposal: It is forbidden to dump adhesive mixtures, as well as waste from equipment washing into sanitary water bodies and sewers.

Operating procedure:

Mix the dry mixture with clean water with a temperature of + 15 ° to + 18 ° C. In a ratio of 0.20-0.24 liters. water per 1 kg of the mixture (5-6 liters per 25 kg bag) until a homogeneous mass without lumps is obtained, let stand for 10 minutes and mix again.Attention: excess water leads to a decrease in the strength characteristics of the solution.

Apply the resulting mortar mixture in a thin layer using a spatula. Then level with a notched trowel. The trowel teeth must correspond to the size of the tiles (15×15 cm – 6 mm teeth, 30×30 cm – 8mm, 60×60 cm – 12 mm).

The tiles should be installed within 15-20 minutes after covering the base with mortar. Do not pre-soak the tiles. It is not recommended to lay the tiles “end-to-end”. The joint width must be at least 2 mm.The joints must remain free when laying tiles. For convenience, crosses should be used. Remove excess mortar mixture. The prepared solution can be used within 4 hours.

Fill the joints between the tiles with BROZEX GT20 water-repellent elastic mixture. The special composition of the BROZEX GT20 grout will protect the joints from mold and mildew. BROZEX GT20 grout has a wide choice of colors. All grout colors are protected from sunlight, thus preventing discoloration caused by ultraviolet light.Work should be carried out not earlier than 9 hours after laying the tiles on the walls, and not earlier than 16 hours on the floors.

Heat and sound insulation plaster Teplolux DeLuxe

Vadim

Discounts are valid for wholesale purchase of products and regular customers.

Scope and composition

Heat- and sound-insulating plaster Teplolux DeLuxe is used during construction works on finishing facades and interiors of buildings.

Teplolux DeLuxe consists of specially selected cement of the highest quality, modifying additives, sand and foam glass granules. Plaster perfectly provides sound insulation and thermal insulation of premises for various purposes. Due to the ease of application and uniform distribution, this material is consumed economically. After drying, it can be dyed.

The end result is a long service life, since the mixture has high adhesion, moisture resistance, and has a low weight.The plaster does not lend itself to the destructive effects of open fire. In the manufacturing process, only environmentally friendly components are used.

The material is used to create an even coating of building facades, which has insulation from sound and cold. It is often used for finishing interior walls and ceilings in dry and damp rooms. Once cured, the mixture can be used as a base for a topcoat.

Substrate preparation

Plaster DeLuxe Teplolux is often applied to various blocks, bricks, cement-sand mortar.

Before the application process, it is recommended to prepare the working surface – to clean it from various impurities, to ensure durability. If there are deformed or crumbling areas, they should be repaired. It is not allowed to apply plaster to the surface of a deformed wall. If priming is necessary, it is recommended to use ArmMix acrylic primer.

Plastering on a perfectly smooth surface is unacceptable – the surface must be given at least a slight roughness.The best way is to apply a special composition Betonokontakt to a glossy surface.

Application Note

Installation process

To ensure maximum traction, only clean tools and equipment should be used. First of all, the DeLuxe Teplolux plaster is poured into a container with water. The amount of liquid is selected in accordance with the instructions for use. The resulting mixture is kneaded until smooth for 5 minutes.It is recommended to mix the solution using a mixer or a drill operating at low speeds.

During the installation process, it is necessary to install beacons, after which the mixture is applied to the surface by hand and leveled according to the rule of the beacons. During the hardening of the plaster, additional leveling of the surface is required by the rule. After that, the layer of plaster is moistened, rubbed with a sponge float and leveled with a spatula.

General recommendations

Do not allow the mixture to dry with various devices or tools.It is recommended not to touch the applied mixture for 7 days and only then carry out work on further finishing. The setting time may vary and depends on the temperature and humidity of the air in a particular room. The optimal indicators are +21 degrees Celsius and humidity within 60%.

In case of contact with even a small amount of the substance on open areas of the skin or eyes, immediately rinse the affected area of ​​the body with plenty of water.During installation work, protective clothing must be worn. All work should be carried out only in compliance with the instructions or rules of SNiP.

how to calculate the consumption per 1 m2, how many grams

Fiber for the screed is a special filling that ensures the strength of the screed and is the guarantor of reliable and long-term operation of the entire floor as a whole. But for this you need to know how to correctly calculate the fiber. This article will examine and apply fiber to the floor screed.We will learn how to calculate the fiber consumption depending on the length of the fibers.

Types

Fiber function

The use of a classic reinforcing screed is not always convenient, and if it is laid in large rooms, the installation process becomes laborious.

Fiber screed is a full-fledged replacement for the iron reinforcing mesh used for mounting the base.

The use of fiber gives the following advantages:

• The additive gives an increase in the strength characteristics of concrete, due to this, the structure retains its unchanged structure over a long period of operation.
• This fiber is endowed with increased resistance to significant temperature changes, which means that the finished floor is immune to cold.
• Reduces the penetration of moisture into the screed.
• The addition of this additive shortens the drying time of the screed, which in turn shortens the repair period in general.
• The additive eliminates possible subsidence and cracks in the concrete base.

Floor screed fiber is distributed throughout the entire volume of the mortar, which cannot be achieved with a classic reinforcing mesh.Due to this, the effect of reinforcement is achieved with a thinner screed, which plays an important role in rooms where the ceiling height is a critical indicator.

Types of fiberglass for screed

Let’s consider what types of fiber there are

Basalt fiber

One of the available varieties is fiber from basalt raw materials.

A characteristic feature of basalt fiber is its excellent resistance to mechanical stress and various kinds of natural influences.An additive of this type does not allow destruction of the base. Even if through cracks appear, the rest of the floor will remain intact.

This additive is recommended for use in areas with increased seismic activity, as well as in climatic zones with significant temperature changes and aggressively humid climate.

Basalt fiber

Polypropylene fiber

Polypropylene fiber differs from the one described above in that it is used for making so-called lightweight concrete and for making plaster.

The period of trouble-free use of polypropylene fiber is slightly less than that of basalt fiber. Otherwise, it performs the same functions of plasticizing and fastening the screed.

Polypropylene fiber has become very widespread due to its affordable price, the only drawback of this product is the presence of counterfeit, and a poor-quality additive significantly reduces the life of the screed and leads to its rapid destruction.

For high-quality performance of work, it is necessary to purchase only high-quality and certified goods with certificates of conformity.If the product does not have all the necessary documents, then it is better to refuse to purchase such a product.

Polypropylene fiber

How to calculate the fiber

There is no strict dosage as such, the amount of additive used varies depending on the desired result: 1 m3 solution.

If it is necessary to calculate the consumption of the additive per 1 m2, then it is necessary to perform the following steps:

Determine the thickness of the screed. For example, you need to fill in 5 cm of solution.

Next, we perform the following calculation:

1000/50 = 20

where 1000 is the value of 1 meter recorded in millimeters, 50 is the height of the future screed in millimeters, 20 is the number of times it is necessary to reduce the amount of additive used, then we calculate the required fiber per square meter:

800/20 = 40 g / m2.

To get the amount of fiber needed for the entire area of ​​the room, you just need to multiply the total area of ​​the room by the result obtained above.

Adding fiber to mortar

Preparing mortar with fiber

1. Preparing the base. The surface must be free of defects and damage, and must also be primed and dried.
2. The zero level is determined using a laser or water level and marked on the walls.
3. The following is the installation of the beacon system.
4. Preparation of the solution. For a better distribution of the fiber in the mixture, the dry components are first mixed, and then the required amount of water is added.
5. Next, the prepared solution is placed on the surface and aligned with the installed beacons using the rule. Further, after partial drying of the floor, it is necessary to remove the beacons, and seal the formed niches with a solution.

Then you need to wait for the screed to fully ripen, during this period to exclude the presence of drafts in the room.

Ready-made mortar with additive

After reviewing this article, you learned the main advantages of using fiber to perform floor screed. Based on the data obtained, draw a conclusion about the advisability of using this product in your case.

Fiber for concrete: properties, applications

Fiber is an auxiliary building material, which are synthetic fibers used for micro-reinforcement of concrete structures.Often, fiber is also added to dry mixes and solutions in order to improve their properties and characteristics. With the advent of this material, developers have gotten rid of most of the hassle associated with pouring concrete, now numerous processes have significantly accelerated and simplified, and the finished objects have become more reliable and durable. What is concrete fiber, what types exist, how is it used correctly and what are its advantages?

Contents:

1. Why use concrete fiber
2. Advantages of combining concrete with microfiber
3. In what areas is fiber used
4. What are the types of fiber
5. How and where is the fiber used depending on the length
6. Fiber kneading technology
7. More information
8. Buy concrete fiber

Why use concrete fiber

In modern construction, such a versatile and proven material as concrete is widely used.This is explained by the properties of concrete, such as:

• strength;
• durability;
• the ability to use for the construction, installation and decoration of various objects;
• low cost.

Concrete is good in many respects and has not yet been invented an analogue to it. Despite the abundance of new materials, it still does not go out of use and will be in demand for more than one decade. But at the same time, concrete has its drawbacks.Under constant and intense loads, under the influence of weather factors, wind and moisture, with temperature extremes and shrinkage, this material is susceptible to mechanical damage, such as cracking and destruction. The edges and joints of concrete elements are particularly affected. To increase the strength of the concrete, improve its structure and extend the service life, microfiber fibers are added to the mortar – thanks to this, an excellent building material becomes even better.

Advantages of combining concrete with microfiber

When reinforcing concrete with fiber receives the following valuable qualities:

• plasticity and viscosity, which makes it more convenient, quick and easy to work with;
• frost resistance;
• water resistance;
• no deformation after solidification;
• abrasion resistance;
• strength and durability.

In which areas is the fiber used

Fields of application of fiber are practically unlimited – as well as concrete.

• It is used for the construction of concrete road surfaces and sites, hydraulic facilities (pools, drains, water canals and reservoirs), bridges and piles for them, pouring the foundation, gunning and plastering, erecting monolithic structures and industrial premises (hangars, warehouses, retail halls).

• Also used in the manufacture of shaped molded products of any shape and size, which allows you to create more original architectural designs for decorating buildings.
• Often, a solution containing polypropylene, glass, basalt or other fibers decorates the facades of a building, since concrete does not change its appearance at all, but at the same time it becomes more plastic, keeps its shape better and does not collapse for a long time. By using fibers, deformation, cracking and chipping at the edges of concrete joints and prefabricated structures can be prevented.

What are the types of fiber

Depending on raw materials and sizes, the following varieties are distinguished.

• Glass fiber . This type is used only for finishing and decorative work, as the fibers quickly become brittle and are not able to withstand heavy loads in concrete structures. When these fibers are added to the solution, the consumption of cement and water is significantly saved – by 15 and 20%, respectively. Consumption per square meter of concrete is on average one kilogram.

• Basalt fiber . The main advantages of this variety: non-flammability of the material, non-toxicity, resistance to aggressive chemicals.The peculiarity of the fibers is that, when combined with cement, they completely dissolve in it and increase its strength. Due to its characteristics, basalt fiber can be used for the construction of heat-resistant concrete structures. One square meter of concrete consumes from 1.5 kg of material. Consumption of cement and water is also reduced by using basalt fiber by 15 and 20%.
• Polypropylene fiber for concrete . This type of material has excellent technical characteristics, significantly increases the strength of concrete, does not form cracks and is very durable without reducing its properties and qualities.Most often used for dry floor screed, wall and foundation installation. Material consumption per square meter is approximately 1 kg.
• Steel fiber for concrete . The most popular and frequently used type of material, as it can provide unlimited possibilities in construction. Gives buildings and structures high strength and resistance to external influences, reliability and durability. Material consumption per square meter is from 30 to 40 kg.

• Anchor fiber . This material is a piece of wire, is added to concrete, if it is required to shape the bends of buildings and other structures, gives the structure additional strength. One square meter of concrete requires 20 to 40 kg of material. The consumption of cement and water is reduced by 15 and 20%.

Also, depending on the purpose and scope of use, fiber comes in different sizes – 6, 10, 12, 18 and 20 mm in length and from 0.3 to 0.5 mm in diameter.To work with various materials – concrete, plaster, dry mixes and mortars – various types of fibers are intended.

How and where is the fiber used depending on the length

Manufacturers have not in vain developed several different length options for this material.

• Small size fiber – 6 mm – is used to increase strength and improve geometric shape when working with mixtures such as cement, sand, gypsum, in plaster and trowel mixtures, as well as when working with foam concrete.
• Fiber for concrete with a size of 12 mm are used to strengthen and increase the strength of various floor slabs, non-autoclaved gas and foam concrete, for self-leveling concrete floors and foundations, piles, hollow concrete structures, hydraulic facilities.

• The largest fiber with fibers 18-20 mm long is intended for work with heavy and very heavy concretes, which are mixed with the addition of coarse aggregate – crushed stone, gravel, coarse sand.It is indispensable for the construction of bridges, paving and other dimensional structures that require increased strength and resistance to mechanical stress.

Fiber kneading technology

• In order to connect the fiber with cement, gypsum and other mixtures, in addition to the materials themselves, a concrete mixer or mortar mixer and water are needed. There are several ways to mix the solution. As a rule, the following technology is used most often.
• First, dry raw materials are poured into the concrete mixer – cement, sand, gravel or their mixture, fiber fibers – then water is added in accordance with the proportions indicated by the manufacturer on the package.

• It is not recommended to violate these proportions. It will be difficult to work with too thick a solution, and an excessively liquid one will shrink, become brittle and crack quickly. It takes 5 to 10 minutes of stirring to prepare the solution. If it is desired to increase the elasticity of the material, a plasticizer is also added to the mixture. Sometimes the fiber is sealed in a plasticizer, and not in water, before being added to the cement mixture.
• When a small amount of material is required, mixing can also be done with a mixer.Sometimes another technology for preparing a construction mixture is used. First, the fiber is filled with water. After the fibers are evenly distributed throughout the volume, they are combined with cement.
• The consumption of fiber for concrete depends on the purpose for which the mortar will be used. So, for floors, 30 kg / m3 is enough, and for walls about 50-55 kg / m3.

Additional information

• On sale fiber is available to the consumer in packages of various sizes from one to twenty kilograms.Small packages are packed additionally in corrugated pallets made of dense polyethylene. Bags can be either plastic or paper. If we talk about the use of the material, it is much more convenient to use it in paper packaging. When mixing a solution, it is not necessary to open and remove it, but you can immediately put it in a concrete mixer. In the process of combining dry mixes and water and stirring, the paper bag will completely dissolve. Such packages are called permeable and are very popular with builders.
• Ready mix containing fiber can be conveniently pumped. This method is used in the development of large structures and structures to speed up the process.

• Occasionally, after hardening, individual hairs appear on the surface of the concrete. If no more topcoat is planned, the hairs are scorched with fire using a special lamp. If paint or other finishing material will be applied on top, it is recommended to leave protruding villi.Thanks to this technique, increased adhesion of the concrete surface with the outer coating is ensured.
• To obtain a high-quality solution that will provide the required effect after solidification, it is important to accurately observe the dosage provided by the special GOST. The duration of mixing is also important. Usually the time is calculated using a very simple formula: to the time required for mixing the cement slurry without fiber in the apparatus, add another 15% if fiber is added.That is, if the mixing of the stock solution is to last ten minutes, adding fiber will increase the time by another minute and a half.
• When building large industrial facilities, to save time, the solution is often mixed in car mixers. In this case, the fiber bags are placed in the mixer along with other components. By the time the car reaches its destination, the mixture will be completely ready. In the event that the fiber is added to the ready-to-use grout in a car mixer, the mixing time for complete distribution will be five to eight minutes.

• Polypropylene fiber is often used by architects and sculptors to create small figures and molded decorative elements. With its help, you can give additional strength to gypsum products. Often it is purchased for artistic creation at home.
• Thanks to the versatile material such as fiberglass, there are several other advantages that can be obtained: if concrete was poured into the formwork, then there is no need to worry about its deformation or cracking after the formwork is removed.It is much more convenient to control and correct the spreading of the cement slurry during shrinkage, if any kind of fiber has been added to it. And after it hardens, the so-called cement milk will never appear on the surface.

Buy fiber for concrete

• Many are surprised why the price of fiber for concrete is so different. The cost is determined primarily based on the basis on which the material is made.The most expensive are those for the production of which polypropylene synthetic fibers were used. The most affordable ones are made of steel and wire. But, given the high consumption of the latter, it will hardly be possible to save something. Therefore, choosing the type of fiber is not worth the price, but according to its qualities and purpose.

• The manufacturer and the region also play an important role. One and the same variety of different brands can vary significantly in price. If building materials are delivered from afar, the price for them can increase significantly.

Fiber for concrete of any kind is indispensable in modern construction; today, no installation of reinforced concrete and other structures can do without this material. As a conclusion, we can say that its main advantage is the ability to give strength to concrete and other materials.

Fiber for concrete – what is it and how is it applied

Polypropylene fiber is an artificially created material that was first used in the 70s of the last century in the USA as an additional reinforcing additive , which prevents the formation of microcracks on the concrete roadbed.The experiment was so successful that cracks from temperature differences stopped appearing in reinforced concrete sections, which was especially important in severe frosts.

Ten years later, this polymer is becoming an integral part of any construction process, where reinforcement at the micro level has become a priority. Already in the 80s, in many European countries, fiber is gradually replacing the metal mesh for semi-dry concrete screed, gaining more and more popularity.

The technology, where polypropylene fiber is used as reinforcement (the price of which is much lower than for a stainless steel mesh), came to the territory of the former Soviet Union after 2000.Now there is a significant increase in the use of polymer in the domestic construction of both the professional and household segments.

Many people often ask the question – “Fiber for concrete – what is it and how does it look?” We answer: externally, the material is chaotically mixed white fibers of different lengths and with a translucent structure. Each fiber has a length of three to eighteen millimeters (depending on the brand) and a diameter in the region of 20 microns.

Basic properties

Polypropylene fiber for concrete reinforcement has a number of properties that allowed it to compete successfully with other methods of reinforcing concrete blocks and slabs, including metal meshes or rods.

The key features of the polymer are the following properties:

• the reinforcement of the concrete structure occurs evenly throughout the entire volume and area, and not segmentally, as in the case of gratings and rods;
• the mixture does not spread, which reduces its consumption and saves money;
• increases the service life of the structure by several decades;
• concrete with fiberglass has a higher fire resistance class;
• significantly improved the appearance of the surface after the introduction of the polymer into the concrete;
• at sharp temperature changes, especially during severe frosts, concrete remains monolithic and microcracks do not form in it;
• due to the polymer, the properties of concrete to absorb moisture are significantly reduced;
• concrete structure has practically no shrinkage;
• increased concrete wear resistance;
• the coefficient of abrasion resistance has increased.

These are the most significant properties of polypropylene fibers, which significantly affect the quality of the resulting concrete and its durability.

Applications

One of the main properties of a polymer is its versatility. Despite the fact that fiber is mainly used as a reinforcing additive in concrete, it can be used in any building mixture containing gypsum or cement. Recently, the fiber began to be used in the creation of foam concrete, which has improved several times its strength and resistance to external influences.

As the main types of structures, polypropylene fiber is widely used:

• in foundations;

90,085 in piles;

• in foam blocks;
• when creating a floor screed;
• in the formation of the blind area.

The wide scope of the material allows it to easily conquer the construction industry.

Method of use and consumption

Fiber is used as a reinforcing additive in cement, gypsum or concrete mortar.In the industrial construction industry, concrete mixture with polymer or ready-made foam blocks are obtained at the factory.

To obtain a similar solution for small volumes of construction work, concrete fiber, the consumption of which is relatively low, is simply poured in the required amount into a standard concrete mixer and mixed with the rest of the components of the mixture until the required consistency is formed.

Fiber can be introduced both at the initial stage of mixing the solution, and at the very end.Only in the first case, the mixing time will be about 10-15 minutes, and in the second option, after the main stage of mixing, it is necessary to wait a little and turn on the concrete mixer again for 5-10 minutes for the final stage of mixing.

Fiber for concrete, consumption per m3 depending on the composition of the mixture:

• concrete / reinforced concrete. Approximate consumption of 700-900 g / m3 of the finished solution;
• dry building mixtures. Consumption – 1kg / m3. You can build on this indicator by loading an arbitrary amount of ingredients into the concrete mixer drum.When mixing by hand, you must first add fiberglass to the dry mixture, mix thoroughly, then repeat the operation, pouring the composition with the required amount of water;
• plaster. Consumption 1-1.2 kg / m3. When plastering the surface with a fiber-reinforced composition, the composition is applied to the cleaned and primed surface by the method of uniform spraying, and then the main work is carried out to level the surface;
• for small architectural forms, the consumption is approximately 2 kg / m3.

Adhering to the recommended consumption of polymer when added to various building mixtures, you can achieve optimal results and increase the strength of the structure several times, even at home. The technological process is extremely simple and does not require special knowledge and skills. The only unit you need is a household concrete mixer.

Brief summary

Fiber for concrete, the price of which is several times lower than other materials for reinforcement (metal mesh, lattice or rods), is a universal additive that increases the durability of concrete structures several times.The polymer is immune to all components of the building mixture and does not react with its components, which makes its use universal and easy.

When carrying out some measurements, it was found that the addition of polypropylene fiber to the concrete composition reduces the formation of cracks by 90% in the first hours of concrete hardening.

Considering the relatively recent appearance on the domestic construction market, the technology has not yet fully revealed its potential. are clearly visible good prospects for concrete with polymer fiber , which over time will be able to displace such familiar materials as metal mesh and steel rods from the market of reinforcing materials.

Read also an interesting article about the properties of the Technoplex insulation and the features of its installation.

90,000 What is fiber? Why fiber in concrete or plaster? Fiber properties and why add polypropylene fiber

Polypropylene fiber in concrete, gypsum. Additives for concrete and gypsum, polypropylene fiber, fiberglass, fibrin.

Description and characteristics of polypropylene fiber, polypropylene fiber, steel fiber and description of the application and production technology of fiber-reinforced concrete with reinforcement of concrete and concrete, gypsum products.The device is a semi-dry screed using the latest technology with the use of fiber for reinforcement.
Production of reinforced building dry mixes using fibrin and fiberglass. Production and technology of reinforcement of foam concrete blocks with the achievement of an increase in the quality and load of foam blocks due to fiber reinforcement of D600 foam blocks, reinforced with polypropylene fiber. Steel anchor and wave fiber for the production of steel-fiber concrete, for industrial floors and concrete reinforcement.Basalt fiber for concrete and gypsum reinforcement. Polypropylene fiber, fiberglass, fibrin, is a reinforcing additive, fiber is an alternative to metal mesh in screeds and a significant reduction in the cost of metal mesh and reinforcement and a significant increase in the quality of products made from concrete, gypsum, foam concrete and other products requiring reinforcement. Instructions for the use of fiber in reinforced concrete products and ready-mixed concrete, the use of fiber in cement-sand screeds and concrete floors, for the use of fiber in foam concrete and many other technologies and methods of using fiber and fiber can be found in the detailed description after reading the full description.

Polypropylene fiber, fibrin, basalt fiber, steel fiber, metal fiber, fiberglass, fiberglass fiber, Additives for concrete, foam concrete and gypsum. What kind of fiber is and what kind of fiber is best for concrete.

Polypropylene fiber, fiberglass, fibrin, is an effective reinforcing additive for concrete, increasing the strength and other quality indicators of concrete and gypsum solutions. Polypropylene fiber increases the fire resistance of concrete and helps to withstand elevated temperatures of concrete and gypsum.Fiber is a building fiber in the form of an additive for aerated concrete and concrete, gypsum products and gypsum solutions, as well as reinforced concrete structures. A more even distribution of steel fibers in concrete is obtained by adding steel fibers to the ready-mix concrete in a mixer.

If you need information where you can buy cheaper microfiber or polypropylene quality fiber for concrete and gypsum, download your price list and check out our low prices. If you are interested in the question of why polypropylene fiber is needed, as an additive in concrete or gypsum mortar, read this description in detail and you can learn a lot about polypropylene fiber and other fiber fibers.

What equipment is required for the production of fiber-reinforced concrete, is a conventional concrete mixer suitable for the production of concrete with the addition and mixing of fiber-reinforced concrete and the production of fiber-reinforced concrete. The equipment for ordinary standard concrete is suitable for the production of fiber-reinforced concrete, and the standard
equipment for laying and finishing almost all fiber-reinforced concrete is also suitable. Polypropylene fiber is a synthetic fiber made of polypropylene for dispersed reinforcement of concrete, mortars and gypsum throughout the volume of the mixture.Polypropylene fiber is an excellent and inexpensive additive for reinforcing
gypsum and concrete products. Basalt fiber is also intended for the reinforcement of plastics, concrete and gypsum. Fiber polypropylene, metal, steel, basalt, can be of different lengths. Polypropylene fiber is usually produced in bags of 0.6 – 0.9 kg, as well as in bags of 20 kg. bags are both plastic and paper. Polypropylene fiber, steel anchor for reinforcing concrete and mortars is also used for the production of paving slabs, concrete fences, reinforced concrete fences, euro fences, decorative fences, concrete monuments, as well as for small architecture, fountains, sculptures, balusters, balustrades, and other architectural decorative concrete products as well as for the production of gypsum products.

Polypropylene fiber, fiberglass, fibrin, it is a reinforcing additive. Alternative mesh in screeds Basalt fiber for concrete and gypsum reinforcement – chopped basalt roving Steel anchor and wave fiber for the production of steel fiber concrete, for industrial floors. The use of fiber, fiberglass in modern construction and modern production of products, today the list of fiber applications in the production of concrete and plaster products and other casting technologies is gaining more and more popularity every day and the range of products where fiber is used is expanding.Production of D600 aerated concrete blocks reinforced with polypropylene fiber, production of reinforced building dry mixes, waterproofing, thermal insulation, reinforced paving slabs, curbs, decorative and road curbs, architectural products, artificial stone, concrete monuments, concrete fences and many other products where fiber takes more and more stable positions.

Polypropylene fiber is a polypropylene construction micro-reinforcing fibers added to concrete, foam concrete, mortar, plaster and filling composition of solutions from gypsum, concrete, etc.e. When mixing, it is evenly distributed throughout the volume of the mixture and reinforces it in all directions. Fiber is a very effective micro-reinforcing additive for concrete, aerated concrete, polystyrene concrete and many other types of concrete products. It is used in all types of cement mortars where it is necessary to prevent the formation of deformation cracks resulting from mechanical stress or shrinkage (for example, when pouring floors, screed or when pouring into formwork). The use of fiberglass allows you to avoid high-cost and time-consuming operations for the reinforcement of concrete products.

Building micro-reinforcing fiber, fiber is a high-modulus thermoplastic polymer. Fiber is produced according to TU 2272-006-13429727-2007, has the necessary certificates of compliance with the requirements of regulatory documents, as well as sanitary and epidemiological rules.
When mixing concrete or gypsum mortar, the fiber additive fluffs up and produces through concrete reinforcement. 1 kg of fiber contains about 300-600 million microfibers of fiber, which allows to properly prevent the formation of cracks.When concrete breaks under load, no separation of fragments is observed
, the fragments remain bound together by polypropylene fibers.

Features of polypropylene fiber:

• Fiber increases resistance to mechanical stress;
• Polypropylene fiber, unlike metal mesh, reinforces the solution in all directions;
• Polypropylene fiber has high adhesion to mortar and forms a homogeneous mass;
• Polypropylene fiber increases abrasion resistance;
• Polypropylene fiber increases the tensile strength of concrete in bending;
• Polypropylene fiber eliminates plastic deformation, cracks, surface flaking;
• Polypropylene fiber increases frost resistance;
• Concrete containing polypropylene fibers has better adhesion than conventional concrete;
• Fiber increases the water resistance of concrete – by blocking the fibers of the fibers of the capillaries of the concrete;

Advantages of polypropylene fiber over traditional reinforcement when installing concrete floors:

The use of fiber is a reduction in the time spent on installing reinforcement, since fiber can be added at the concrete plant or directly into the mixer (mixing time 5 – 10 minutes).The addition of fiber-optic fibers increases the vibration resistance of concrete, since vibration,
propagating along the reinforcing mesh, contributes to the destruction of concrete. Polypropylene fiber prevents the formation of microcracks, well keeps cracks from expanding and growing microcracks into macrocracks. When replacing the reinforcing mesh with polypropylene fiber, it is possible to significantly reduce the thickness of the screed while maintaining the bearing capacity of the concrete slab without losing the strength of the concrete.By adding fiberglass to concrete, the corrosion resistance is increased. With the corrosion of steel reinforcement in concrete, a significant increase in its volume occurs, which leads to the destruction of the protective layer, which is excluded when replacing the reinforcement with polypropylene fiber. Fiber polypropylene makes it possible to obtain monolithic, seamless concrete structures. When introducing polypropylene fiber from 0.6 kg to 1.5 kg (depending on the purpose of the floors) per 1 m3 of concrete and a slab thickness of 150 mm, the seams are cut with a step of 30 x 30 meters.

Fiber is added to the dry mix or to the mortar at the initial stage of mixing. Polypropylene fiber 6 mm – this fiber is ideal for plastering and preparation of repair mortars, screeds for grinding. The fiber diameter is small, the surface is highly durable, which greatly facilitates dispersion. This grade of polypropylene fiberglass is often used in works related to modeling complex concrete surfaces, casting small architectural forms, paving slabs, artificial stone, and other concrete products where reinforcement with steel reinforcement was previously used or no reinforcement was used at all.

Polypropylene fiber fiber 12 mm – 14 mm. This fiber is designed to perform work on the installation of screed and self-leveling floors, followed by grinding the surface. Also fiberglass 12 mm – 14 mm. is in high demand among manufacturers of fiber-reinforced concrete, foam concrete products, fiber-reinforced concrete using fiber-reinforced concrete, foam blocks, polystyrene concrete, aerated concrete, paving slabs, curbs, concrete fences, monuments, artificial stone made of concrete, also made of gypsum, etc.

Polypropylene fiber 18 mm – 20 mm. Fibers of polypropylene fiber are used, first of all, when carrying out work on the device of floor screed, when grinding concrete surfaces, splicing in the crack formation zone, producing prefabricated reinforced concrete, preparing repair mortars.
Fine fibers of this brand of fiber mix well in any mixer and are ideal for mortars, concrete, gypsum mortars.

Polypropylene fiber in recent years has become more and more popular reinforcing material, used mainly in concreting and concrete production.There are several types of fiberglass, these include the following types: steel fiber, polypropylene fiber, fiberglass fiber, polyamide fiber and basalt fiber. Polypropylene fiber is an effective micro-reinforcing additive in concrete, gypsum mortars and other cement or gypsum-based mortars. Construction micro-reinforcing fiber is in high demand when working with fiber-concrete floors (the thing is that propylene fiber can serve as a cheaper alternative to steel reinforcing mesh), in the production of foam concrete, where it is impossible to use steel fiber, in laying fiber-reinforced concrete.Also, polypropylene fiber serves to prevent cracking of concrete and gypsum products. By using polypropylene fiber, many plastering and other finishing works are also simplified. In small-piece decorative products, polypropylene fiber
especially plays an important role, since by adding fiber to the composition, it is possible to reduce the number of product rejects by up to 90%. The penetrating waterproofing on a cement basis, which is usually not reinforced when applied to the surface, is also significantly strengthened.

Polypropylene fiber for concrete, this is a complete analogue for the use of such polypropylene fibers as the British brand fibrin (fibrin) manufactured by Adfil. Reinforcing polypropylene fibers are produced in a continuous way from granules of the purest polypropylene C3H6 by extrusion and drawing with heating, followed by application of a sizing compound to the surface, which promotes dispersion and adhesion of the fiber surface with cement mortar, then the fiber is cut depending on the fiber application.Construction micro-reinforcing fibers, evenly distributed in concrete, reinforce it throughout the entire volume. Due to its thinness and great flexibility, fiber fibers do not protrude on the surface, which makes it smoother and more even. Polypropylene fiber is used in all types of cement-containing mixtures, these are concretes, mortars, plasters, repair mortars, aerated concrete, aerated concrete and other aerated concrete, sand concrete, decorative printed concrete, shotcrete, etc. etc. Also, this material is widely used in the production of plaster products, gypsum artificial stone, gypsum tiles, plaster stucco molding, plaster molding, plaster balustrades, plaster sculptures, plaster cornices, all kinds of plaster decorative products.

Fiber concrete with the addition of polypropylene fiber is 5 times more resistant to impact and splitting than conventional concrete. The use of fiber particles at low consumption rates increases the resistance of concrete to abrasion by up to 60%. When fiber is introduced into concrete, water resistance increases and, accordingly, water absorption decreases – water, dirt and chemicals are absorbed more slowly, frost resistance increases, and concrete bending strength increases. The use of building micro-reinforcing fiber BCM provides resistance to the formation of microcracks in 3 stages.
Fiber increases the resistance of concrete to deformation without destruction in the critical period – 2-6 hours after laying, for example, paving slabs. At a later stage, when the concrete has hardened and begins to shrink, polypropylene fibers connect the edges of the cracks, thus reducing the risk of fracture. The use of polypropylene fibers reduces water loss in concrete by effectively controlling hydration, thereby reducing internal stress.

The use of polypropylene fiber in concrete solutions eliminates the formation of shrinkage cracks at an early stage by 60-90%, for comparison – reinforcing mesh by only 6%.Fiber is effective in the construction of concrete floor screeds, both industrial and household. In this case, fiber is an economical alternative to masonry cards or steel mesh, which is widely used in the reinforcement of self-leveling concrete floors and floor screed, but cannot be used as a replacement for structural steel reinforcement in monolithic housing construction. When concrete shrinks, the steel mesh is compressed and increases tensile stresses in the concrete. Steel mesh stretches and has value only after the concrete has cracked.Alternatively, propylene fiber helps prevent micro-cracks that form in plastic in concrete. We get, in fact, a different material, stronger and more efficient fiber-reinforced concrete, in fact, it is a new, higher-quality fiber-reinforced concrete.

The use of polypropylene building micro-reinforcing fibers in various fields shows that fiber reinforcement provides an excellent alternative to some traditional solutions developed for mortars (screeds, facade mortars, etc.)and for the concrete industry (slabs, water tanks and pipes, precast concrete elements, etc.).

Polypropylene fiber is very popular among manufacturers of foam blocks and other blocks made of cellular concrete. During the production and transportation of foam blocks with the addition of polypropylene fiber, the number of rejects of concrete products is significantly reduced, and the quality of the goods increases. Fiber fiber
also reduces the time of primary and final hardening of foam blocks and, as a result, gives an acceleration of the mold turnover, which allows to increase productivity, or when using cutting technology for the production of foam concrete, reinforcing fiber can significantly reduce the time interval from pouring to cutting the foam concrete mass, accelerating the setting of foam concrete.

The experience of using reinforcing additives in foam concrete showed that with the addition of 1 kg of polypropylene fiber per m3 of foam concrete mixture, the scrap percentage (previously about 5%) is absent at all, and when 0.6 kg is added, the rejection percentage is reduced to 1%, there are no chips corners and edges, respectively, an excellent presentation of the product. The appearance of products improves, the strength of foam concrete for bending and compression increases by 2-4 times, heat and sound insulation properties increase, with a dosage of 2 kg / m3 seismic resistance at the output we get the so-called fiber-reinforced concrete used in the construction of facilities in regions with increased seismic activity.Fiber-reinforced foam blocks of the D600 brand show the results of testing the strength characteristics of the D700 foam block. The strength grade increases from B1.5 to B2.5-B3 with a dosage of 270 kg of cement per 1 cubic meter. By accelerating the turnover of molds, productivity increased by 45-50%.

The second important factor is that, with the same technical characteristics of finished products, the addition of fiber allows to reduce cement consumption by up to 8%.

ATTENTION !!! Recently, cases of appearance of counterfeits of non-alkali-resistant fiber on the construction market have become more frequent, it is usually fiberglass with a rather low cost of up to $ 4 per 1 kg.This fiber in no way can be used in the reinforcement of both concrete and any cement-containing mortar, since the concrete mixture is known to be an alkaline medium. Accordingly, using such a fiber, you get reinforced concrete only at the initial stage of hardening, and later on, harmful oblong voids formed in the place of single non-alkali-resistant fibers have an extremely negative effect on the quality of your products up to the destruction of the material under insignificant load, and as a result of your the same reputation of the manufacturer.

Polypropylene fiber is resistant to absolutely all chemicals included in the composition of concrete, to physical damage during mixing, to alkalis used in production processes, has excellent heat resistance, does not corrode, unlike steel fibers, does not require high-speed mixers
, unlike from alkali-resistant fiberglass, and non-alkali-resistant fiberglass, which tends to decompose in the cement environment of concrete, is distributed evenly without forming clots throughout the entire volume of the composition and reinforcing it in all directions, does not lose its durability and appearance.
Also, the fiber is compatible with any additives and additives in concrete, including plasticizers, antifreeze additives, hardening accelerators and setting retarders.

When polypropylene fiber is introduced into the concrete structure, frost resistance increases in concrete products, some manufacturers consider polypropylene fiber an alternative to air-entraining additives, significantly reduces the formation of shrinkage microcracks, which can subsequently develop into macrocracks, increases the wear resistance of the concrete surface, reduces the abrasion of paving slabs, increases water resistance concrete by blocking the concrete capillaries with fibers.As a result, the corrosion of steel reinforcement decreases when concrete breaks under load, there is no separation of fragments, the fragments remain bound together by polypropylene fibers, the fiber increases the compressive and bending strength of concrete and concrete products by about 10%

Concrete with the use of polypropylene fiber also It is widely used in the construction of hydraulic structures of reservoirs, sedimentation tanks, spillways, ports, docks, roads, sea barriers, as well as concrete roads and bridges, where increased resistance to the penetration of anti-icing salts is especially important.

Method of using polypropylene fiber:
1. Fiber, fibrin is poured into concrete, or a mortar mixer, mixer into a dry mixture before adding water,
for better distribution of fibers, it is necessary to fill the fibers in parts during
stirring.
2. Polypropylene fiber is added in small portions to concrete when kneading directly into a mixer,
or concrete mixer during mixing, about 15 minutes. Polypropylene fiber is fully compatible with any known additives in concrete and mortars.

A complete price list for concrete additives can be downloaded on the website in the price section.

Semi-dry floor screed in St. Petersburg

“Hello everyone!
In our case, despite the careful study of the stages of repairing an apartment with reference to the calendar, in terms of working with the floor (leveling, sound and waterproofing), we still faced the time factor – we needed to make the floor as quickly as possible. Well, qualitatively, of course, because whatever the result did not suit us, but there were also such contractors who offered well, completely insane solutions in a short time.I had to spend some time looking for a solution on the Internet. We settled on a fairly new, but gaining popularity method of mechanized semi-dry screed. After reading reviews on specialized forums, we decided to focus on it. Plus, it should be added that our house is quite old, and such a factor as a low volumetric weight (which is important for old floors) played an important role.
As a result, through mutual acquaintances, we found a team, looked at the reference on the objects – they even took us to one of them to show the floor, fortunately there was a renovation there, we signed a contract.In the evening of the next day, we were shown the result of the work. I am more than satisfied with the result. Thanks.”

Gleb Kononov,
St. Petersburg

“Thanks for the job. A couple of weeks ago I contacted the company, the guys worked efficiently and quickly, they filled me with a screed in a new apartment. The cost is very democratic, the money for the work is taken after completion. I learned about them from friends and now I advise everyone. ”

Christina,
St. Petersburg

“I was pleased with the result.The guys poured a screed in a private house, made 2 floors. The work was done efficiently and on time. Beforehand, the foreman went to make an estimate, completely free of charge. I paid in advance only for the material, paid for the work after the fact. Everything is according to the estimate, no allowances. Thanks for good job!”

Alexander,
Vsevolozhsk

“I contacted the company on the recommendation of friends. They explained everything on the phone, advised how best to do it, announced the cost. After 2 days, the station was brought in and the floors were flooded.Everything is clear and without delays. The floors are perfectly flat and laminate can now be laid. I express my gratitude to the foreman! I will recommend you to my friends.