Solar Roofs - WATERPROOF!

Summer 2009
Solar Roofs
Sump Pumps
Foams and Waterproofing
$4.95
Silicone Sealants
The
TheWaterproofing
WaterproofingSolution.
Solution.
IfIfit’s
protecting.
it’sworth
worthbuilding,
building, it’s
it’s worth
worth protecting.
Applications
Include
Applications Include
Underslab
Underslab
Property
ShoringWalls
Walls
Property Line Shoring
Backfilled
Backfilled Walls
Restoration
Restoration
Greenroofs
Greenroofs
Plaza Decks
Decks
Plaza
Roofing Underlayments
Underlayments
Roofing
Shotcrete
Shotcrete
With sound design guidance, quality waWith
sound design guidance, quality waterproofing products, proper installation
terproofing products, proper installation
and qualified independent inspection
and qualified independent inspection
programs, you have the piece of mind
programs,
have structure
the piece
of mind
knowing you
that your
is protected
knowing
that your structure is protected
by the best.
by the best.
2870 Forbs Avenue
2870 Forbs Avenue
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
847.851.1800
800.527.9948
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
847.851.1800
800.527.9948
www.cetco.com
www.cetco.com
Waterproofing
Breakthrough
Save time and money with Henry CM100TM
A fast curing, cold applied, elastomeric fluid for use as
a waterproofing/roofing membrane, Henry CM100™ is
applied with squeegee or roller to create a seamless,
rubber-like impervious membrane. The fast curing time
enables a multi-coat system to be applied in the same day.
• Single or high-build two-ply application
• Excellent adhesion to most construction surfaces
including “green” concrete
• Ideal for small, confined spaces or hard-to-get-at applications,
including both vertical and horizontal surfaces
• Solvent-free; no offensive odors
Need technical assistance? Call the Henry team of building
science specialists at 800-486-1278 or visit us at www.henry.com
Ideal for
multi-layer
thick build roofing
and waterproofing systems
Inside This Issue
Features
12
Publisher
Solar Roofs: Challenges and Waterproofing
Solutions
Summit Publishing, LLC
The popularity of green building, coupled with
significant price declines in photovoltaic systems, has led
to a significant increase in solar roof installations. Here
are solutions to ensure the roof is leak-free.
16
12
Clark Ricks
16
Sump Pumps: Advances and Installation
Sump pumps are a critical component of below-grade
waterproofing in many areas of the country. New
technologies and installation methods make them more
fail-safe and affordable.
28
22
Green Sealants at the Bottom of the World
8
27
Waterproof! News
28
30
Technically Speaking:
Sealants
On the Market
On the Cover:
The largest solar panel array in
Western New York is installed on
the roof of a student dormitory
at the University at Buffalo. The
6,300 sq. ft. of photovoltaic
panels will produce enough
power to meet the annual
electrical requirements of 10
average households.
Photo Courtesy:
University of Buffalo
28
Brad Moulton
Summit Publishing
Solar Roofs
Sump Pumps
Foams and Waterproofing
Silicone Sealants
$4.95
Coming Up...
Waterproof! would like to know what you think about this issue. Let us know
what you want to see featured as well as what you’d like to change. Email the
editor with your comments at editor@waterproofmag.com, or write to us at:
Waterproof! Magazine
884 East 700 North
Mapleton, UT, 84664
Be sure to include your name, address, and a daytime telephone number. Letters
may be edited for publication. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned
unless they include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
WATERPROOF!
Art Director
Summer 2009
We’d Like to Hear From You...
4
Brian Blaquiere
John Cambruzzi
Larry Carbary
Duane Friend
Dave Nichols
Wally Radjenovic
Patrick Howard
Monica Hall
Departments
Comment:
Troubled Times
Contributors
Circulation Manager
Princess Elisabeth Station was built in one of the world’s
harshest and most remote regions. Designers also insisted
on extremely demanding green building standards
6
Craig Shorts
Editorial Director
Foam in Waterproofing Systems:
Whether used as a drainage board, underslab insulation,
or in roofing systems, every waterproofer deals with foam
board. Polystyrenes and polyurethanes each have their
own advantages and special application techniques.
22
Advertising Manager
884 East 700 North
Mapleton, UT, 84664-3761
toll free: 877-229-9174
editorial: ext. 2
advertising: ext. 1
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fax: 801-494-3232
www.waterproofmag.com
Volume 3 Number 3
WATERPROOF! is published quarterly by Summit
Publishing, LLC, 884 East 700 North, Mapleton,
UT, 84664-3761. Subscription price: $20.00 per
year.
Application to mail at Periodicals Postage Rates
is pending at Springville, UT. and at other mailing
locations. POSTMASTER: Send address changes
to Waterproof! Magazine, 884 East 700 North,
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Copyright © 2008 by Summit Publishing . All
rights reserved. Printed in the USA. Waterproof!
Magazine is a trademark of Summit Publishing.
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Editor’s Note
Comment: Troubled Times
Some may think the waterproofing
industry isn’t changing much. They’re
wrong.
The waterproofing industry—and
the construction industry as a whole—
is in the middle of an unprecedented
period of change. Within the last 18
months, half a dozen major factors have
combined to create a “perfect storm.”
Companies and contractors that do not
adapt to these new conditions will be
forced aside. Here’s just a few:
Economy:
The
construction
industry is in the middle of its worst
slowdown
ever.
Residential
housing starts are
lower than they’ve
been in 20 years,
and the drop was
as sudden as it
was steep. (The decline from 2005 to
2008 is more than 70%.) Commercial
construction, which usually lags behind
residential, has slowed dramatically as
credit has dried up.
While conditions have stabilized,
they’re not expected to improve
dramatically for at least two more years.
Businesses must learn to thrive in the
new reality.
Sustainability: Simply put, the
green building movement will change the
way this industry builds. From solvents
to sitework and everything in between,
waterproofers will need to adapt. “Green
building” practices are already mandated
by various agencies, and they’re rapidly
being incorporated into model building
codes.
Legal
Environment:
Recent
natural disasters—hurricanes on the
Gulf Coast, flooding in the Midwest—
have spotlighted the need for quality
waterproofing. But these disasters have
also
created
hundreds
of
lawsuits
and
new regulations.
Everything from
sump
pump
wiring to mold
remediation
is getting reby Clark Ricks
examined. Laws
affecting employee pay, benefits, safety
regulations, tax rates, and insurance are
also constantly changing.
New Materials: Today’s cutting-edge
products,
like
silane sealants,
urethane grout
compounds,
and carbon-fiber
repair kits make
waterproofing
work faster, easier, and more effective.
If you don’t know about new products,
chances are that your competition will—
and they’ll get the job.
New Technology: Sticking with
“yesterday’s technology” may make your
business “yesterday’s waterproofer.” A
solid company website has moved from
luxury to necessity. Customer databases
and employee cell phones are “standard
operating procedure.”
I believe that great change is always
accompanied by great opportunity. By
staying on top of all of these issues, a
waterproofing company can become
even more successful than he was a few
years ago.
That’s where this magazine comes
in. We want to help you navigate these
troubled times. Let me know what more
we can do to help.

"Great change is
always accompanied
by great opportunity."
6
WATERPROOF!
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Underseal™ is protected by U.S. Patent No. 7,488,523
Phone: 800-541-4994 Fax: 972-875-9425
website: www.polyguardproducts.com
WATERPROOF! News
Housing Begins Recovery
U.S. housing starts unexpectedly
snapped the longest streak of declines
in 18 years in February, rising 22% from
January. The jump was influenced by
warmer weather and an 82% surge in
starts on condominiums, apartments
and townhouses that’s unlikely to be
sustained, analysts said.
Building permits, a sign of future
construction, at a lower rate, indicating
construction may again slow. Total home
construction for this year is expected to
be about 450,000 homes.
Developers are still contending
with record foreclosures that depress
prices and profits, and the glut of
unsold properties on the market means
the housing industry’s recession will
probably continue for some time.
While economists say these numbers
indicate the worst of the contraction
may have passed, don’t expect a rapid
rebound.
“We expect demand for all homes,
both new and existing, to remain far
below normalized levels,” says one
economist.
NAWSRC Plans Convention
The National Association of
Waterproofing and Structural Repair
Contractors (NAWSRC) will hold their
Annual Convention next month. It is
scheduled for August 22-23, 2009 in Fort
Lauderdale, Fla. The Welcome Reception
will start on Sunday at 7 p.m.
For those planning to take
certification tests at the convention, the
certification seminars will be on Sunday
from 1-5 p.m. with testing Monday from
1:30-3:30 p.m.
On Monday, educational seminars
will start at 10 a.m. and run until noon.
After lunch the non-compete round table
will be in session from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
The Educational Seminars on
Tuesday will start at 9 a.m. with Round
8
WATERPROOF!
Tables from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The Awards
Dinner will be from 6 until 9 p.m. on
Tuesday.
The NAWSRC will announce the
winners of the STAR Award and hold
elections for open Board of Director
positions. They will also honor those
newly certified members. New members of the association
receive a meeting credit that can be used
to help pay for the Annual Convention.
To register for the meeting or for more
information about the association, visit
www.nawsrc.org. Kryton Offers 10-Year
Guarantee
Vancouver-based
Kryton
International Inc. now offers a
performance warranty for structures
using
their
unique
crystalline
waterproofing product.
The Krystol Assurance Program
guarantees that areas of a structure
waterproofed by Kryton will remain
watertight for 10 years. It also provides
enhanced quality control and project
support through consistent onsite
supervision, mix design consultation,
jointing design review and training for
applicators.
“Water intrusion and the damage it
causes is the number one contributor to
a concrete repair industry worth billions
of dollars every year,” says Kari Yuers,
CEO of Kryton.
“Concrete waterproofing.. is one of
an owner’s most strategic investments
and this program ensures that investment
pays off with long term peace of mind.”
The program is distinct from
Kryton’s standard warranty, which
guarantees that every product is free
from manufacturer defects.
Therma-Stor Adds Staff
Therma-Stor Products, manufacturer of several lines of dehumidifiers
and moisture control products, has
added two senior staff members.
Steve Reppen was recently hired as
the National Sales Manager for UltraAire Products. Reppen previously
held national sales leader and general
management roles at Milgard Windows
and Merrillat Industries.
Bob Adamson has also been
brought into the company to serve as
Senior Product Manager-Residential
Products. Adamson previously held
leadership roles in product development,
account management, marketing &
engineering at firms serving industrial
and transportation industries.
Therma-Stor Products specializes in
products that promote moisture control
for the optimization of Indoor Air
Quality and Asset Protection.
SWRI Launches Two New
Validation Programs
In addition to their product
validation program,
the Sealant,
Waterproofing & Restoration Institute
(SWRI) is now validating contractors.
The overall objective for both the
Training Validation and Contractor
Validation programs is to ensure that
owners and designers receive the highest
standards of workmanship.
The Training Validation Program
analyzes the contractor’s quality
assurance program, and ensures
applicators know how to properly install
a given product. Specific technical
content has been outlined and is required
for review.
In the Contractor Validation
Program, the Contractor will be
evaluated on similar project experience,
key management personnel, financial
stability, safety, training, insurance
and other marketplace benchmarks.
Contractors will be awarded a
Recognition Level (i.e. Platinum, Gold,
Silver, Bronze) as their validation seal
based upon results of their application. According to Erin Neid, a marketing
director at SWRI, the ultimate goal of
both programs is to assist the end user
in selecting competent firms to maintain
their structures.
Nichols comes to Bilco with more
than 19 years of experience in the
building products industry.
“Kent Nichols’ sales, marketing
and international business development
skills, combined with his expertise in the
export markets of the Middle East, Latin
America, Canada and the Caribbean,
will play a key role in our international
expansion plans,” said Dominic
DeConciliis, Bilco’s vice presicent of sales
and marketing.
Regional Waterproofing
Meetings a Success
The National Association of
Waterproofing and Structural Repair
Contractors (NAWSRC) has launched
a series of regional meetings, aimed
at providing the benefits of NAWSRC
New Logo for AWD
American Wick Drain, a leading
manufacturer of sheet drain and green
roof products, has a new logo. Unveiled
at World of Concrete 2009, the new logo
consists of a stylized letter W with a
raindrop in the corner , emphasizing the
company’s primary focus on stormwater
and groundwater drainage.
New International Sales
Director at Bilco
The Bilco Company, which
manufactures window wells, cellar doors,
and other basement products, has a new
director of international sales.
Kent Nichols is now International
Sales and Marketing Manager. In his new
role, Nichols will be actively involved
in the company’s marketing efforts,
strategic planning, new products and
business development.
Spring 2009
9
membership
to
waterproofing
contractors across the country.
They kicked off the program in
Chicago on May 22-23, 2009. The
two-day event had a full schedule of
educational seminars covering topics
from indoor air quality to internet
marketing and the basement repair
industry. The first day focused on how
basement repair contractors could help
real estate agents sell houses faster. This
seminar also provided an opportunity to
meet and network with local real estate
agents and inspectors.
The second day catered to
contractors with topics such as how to
become more profitable.
The event’s primary sponsor
was Metropolitan Industries Inc., in
Romeoville, Ill. which offered a tour of its
pump manufacturing plant. The 100,000
sq. ft. facility makes sump pumps and
other dewatering devices. The tour also
included the newly opened Energy and
Water Independent Metro-Green house
nearby. This 480 sq. ft. green home is
equipped with solar panels, a windmill,
a full rain harvesting system, solarpowered radiant heated floors, and a
solar-powered well pump.
The next NAWSRC Regional
Meeting will be in Atlantic City, New
Jersey in November 2009. For more
information, or to sponsor a regional
meeting of your own, visit www.nawsrc.
org.
New Site on Deck Coatings
A new website has been launched
focused on waterproof deck coatings and
issues related to them. The site, www.
deckexpert.com, and the related blog
waterproofdeckcoatingadvice.blogspot.
com
contain product information,
troubleshooting,
and
installation
guidelines.
Begun by Bill Leys, “The Deck
Expert” in 2007, the site has been
redesigned and reformatted to make
information easier to find. The site has
information and videos about deck
construction, safety issues and retrofit
advice. It also contains dozens of links
and comments about how to waterproof
horizontal above grade deck surfaces of
any material.
Visitors can sign up for email
updates, subscribe to the blog, and as of
last month, get updates, or “tweets,” via
Twitter.
Leys’ operation is headquartered
in Southern California, and the site
is seeking advertisers, writers, and
feedback of any kind.
Want more FREE Information?
For additional information on any
product advertised in this issue visit
www.waterproofmag.
com/freeinfo
and submit an instant request
to any advertiser
in this issue.
10
WATERPROOF!
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
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Ames Research Laboratories
Applied Technologies
Basement Technologies
Boccia
Cetco
Epro Waterproofing Systems
EZ Breathe
Henry
HouseGuard
Hydraway
International Leak Detection
JDR Enterprises (J-Drain)
Liberty Pumps
Mer-Ko (ParexLahabra)
Nationwide Reinforcing
Polyguard Products
Stronghold
Therma-Stor
Waterproof.com
W.R. Meadows
International Leak Detection (ILD®)
is the worldwide leader of integrity testing technology.
Why do this...
Historically, flood testing was utilized to confirm that waterproofing and
roofing membranes were watertight. However, flood testing has many
drawbacks, especially when comparing it to the latest EFVM® testing
method only used by ILD®’s trained and certified technicians.
EFVM® vs
When this can be done!
Flood Testing
ILD® technicians use EFVM® testing to pinpoint exact
breaches in membranes without relying on wet spots within
the insulation or visual confirmation of a breach.
Only proves the capability of a waterproofing membrane to HOLD water; it cannot locate breaches or
verify the absence of any breaches.
EFVM® requires as little as a spray of water or existing
water within the overburden to test waterproofing.
May actually cause more damage with membrane
breaches from the required amount of flood water.
EFVM®’s technology can be used on flat, sloped and vertical surfaces.
Sloped or vertical surfaces cannot be flood tested.
Testing can occur after all work is completed and overburden is installed.
Expensive and time-consuming, often causing delays
in overburden installation and roof completion.
Any breach allowing even minute amounts of water will
conduct electricity to complete a circuit, measurable by
the ILD® technician.
Pinholes and minor seam voids escape flood testing
detection which could subsequently cause mold or
structural decay.
The contractor can repair the defects found and have them
retested the same day.
Water infiltration damage from flood testing often
restrains retesting.
EFVM®’s non-destructive method reads through all typical
water-permeable overburden mediums such as soil, sand,
crushed stone, pavers, asphalt, and un-reinforced concrete
Garden roofs prohibit flood testing.
Copyright © 2009 International Leak Detection (ILD®) | All Rights Reserved
Contact ILD® today!
www.leak-detection.com
USA : Phone: 847.993.3030
| Toll-Free: 866.282.LEAK | Fax: 847.292.4404
Canada : Phone: 905.479.EFVM | Toll-Free: 866.282.LEAK | Fax: 905.479.4185
SOLAR ROOFS
Challenges and Waterproofing Solutions
The largest solar panel array in Western New York is installed
on the roof of a student dormitory at the University at Buffalo. The
6,300 sq. ft. of photovoltaic panels will produce enough power to
meet the annual electrical requirements of 10 average households.
Photo Courtesy University of Buffalo
R
ooftop solar panels are becoming
increasingly popular.
Rising
energy
prices,
combined
with concerns about pollution, global
warming, and sustainable building
practices have made the technology
more viable than ever before.
“As any technology expands, price
comes down,” says Patrick Howard, CEO
of the Howard Company,
a supplier and consultant
to both the waterproofing
and solar panel market.
“This is especially true of
photovoltaics, and now there are all the
green energy incentives coming into
place as well.”
In San Diego, for example, solar
integrated roofing systems have been
installed, or installation is in progress,
on 14 city schools, with more scheduled
in the coming two years. Benefits
The school system expects to save
millions of dollars in energy costs over
the next 20 years, in addition to helping
the state make progress toward the
goal of generating 20% of its electricity
facility to install solar panels and sell the
electricity back to the users.
Photovoltaic roofs also help
buildings qualify for certification with
green building programs. Under the
U.S. Green Building Council’s current
LEED criteria, a building can gain up to
3 points by using solar energy.
Most solar roofs, especially in the
commercial sector, are more
properly called “photovoltaic
panels.” These systems convert
light into electrical energy
using thin wafers of silicon.
(The other type of panel is basically a
solar hot water heater.)
For rooftop waterproofers, rooftop
panels create additional challenges, as the
mechanical attachments, cables, pipes,
and other penetrations need special
“As any technology expands,
price comes down”
12
WATERPROOF!
with renewable sources by 2017.
Howard cites cases where Southern
California Edison has approached large
building owners to essentially rent their
roofs. In one instance, they leased back
roof space on a 100,000 sq. ft. Montana
attention.
Recently though, several
new technologies promise to radically
simplify installation, and make solar
energy generation more cost-effective
than ever before.
Built-In Panels
Photos Courtesy Brian Blaquiere/Sika Sarnafil
Frito-Lay, the snack food maker,
installed a photovoltaic roof on its
65,000 sq. ft. facility near Los Angeles,
California.
The Frito-Lay Distribution Facility in
Los Angeles uses a new technology
that combines a waterproofing
membrane and solar panels into a
single flexible product.
The decision was partially driven
by the chronic power outages that
plagued the state in 2000 and early 2001.
Electrical blackouts and record high
energy bills made business difficult. The
company also has a reputation for being
environmentally conscious. So when
the distribution warehouse needed to
replace the existing built-up roof with
a durable, long-lasting alternative, they
chose to include solar panels.
“The LADWP [Los Angeles
Department of Water and Power] was
offering a substantial incentive to install
solar photovoltaic roof systems,” says
Chris McKenna, electricity manager
at Frito-Lay. “That made the project
economical for us.”
The project was the first to use
a new product from Solar Integrated
Technologies (SIT) called SR-2001.
The design combines an impermeable
waterproofing
membrane
with
photovoltaic cells in a single sheet.
SR-2001 uses a 60-mil single-ply
thermoplastic membrane from Sarnafil
as a base, then laminates a dozen flexible,
thin, lightweight photovoltaic modules
onto it.
Peter Chaitkin, account executive
at Solar Integrated Technologies, says
they chose the membrane due to its
performance history and heat-welded
seams. “It provides the owner with a
durable roof that lasts for decades,” he
says.
The 10-ft-by-40-ft photovoltaic
roofing panels are then hot-air
welded to an installed Sika Sarnafil
EnergySmart Roof. Each panel generates
approximately 1,500 watts. The result is a
photovoltaic roofing system that protects
the building interior from the elements
while generating power for its electricity
needs.
Southern California Roofing got the
nod to install the system.
First, we arranged the photovoltaic
modules according to the customer’s
request for kilowatt power,” said Chuck
Point, project manager at Southern
California Roofing. Since Frito-Lay
wanted a 100 kilowatt system (100,000
watts), the roof needed 70 of the 10x 40
panels. He says the actual installation
went smoothly, noting that the company
has installed Sarnafil products for more
than 20 years and the workers are very
familiar with it.
The outer face of the membrane
is white, which increases the panels’
efficiency.
“The membrane’s reflectivity allows
the flexible photovoltaic panels to absorb
more of the sun’s rays in less-thanoptimum conditions,” said Chaitkin.
“The EnergySmart Roof membrane
reflects the sun’s rays, reduces heat
absorption into the building, decreases
cooling costs, and actually increases the
productivity of the solar panels.”
Energy from the panels is collected
in wires and routed to inverters that
convert the DC power into alternating
current that Frito-Lay can use to run
computers, lights, air conditioners and
other equipment.
Completed in 2003, the roof
Conventional solar panels are rigid, and sit above the roofing membrane. The
penetrations, supports, and flashings these require need special attention to
ensure the roof remains impermeable.
Spring 2009
13
generates about 186,000 kilowatt hours of
clean energy annually, enough electricity
to power 28 homes.
“The system works so well that
during some periods of the day, we are
producing more power than we need,”
said McKenna. “When that happens, the
extra power gets fed back into the utility
grid.”
The company has since installed
another system on its Sylmar, California
distribution center roof, and anticipates
additional installations in the future.
“The Most Exciting Project
I’ve Worked On”
Photos Courtesy Brian Blaquiere/Sika Sarnafil
The same SR-2001 panel was
also used on the National Archives
and Records Administration (NARA)
building in Waltham, MA. The facility
stores thousands of irreplaceable federal
documents, so when its EPDM roof
started failing, it was critical to find a
new roof.
“We had considered different types
of roofing systems, including TPO,
PVC and EPDM, but we wanted an
Energy Star ‘cool roof ’,” says Roman
Piaskoski, regional energy coordinator
for the government agency overseeing
the project. “When we heard of this
system that uses flat thin film, flexible,
amorphous silicon panels integrated
with a Sarnafil EnergySmart Roof
we thought ‘Hey, this could be it!’”
In addition to saving the GSA about
$67,000 per year in electrical costs, the
built-in photovoltaic (BIPV) system will
14
WATERPROOF!
Built-in photovoltaic (BIPV) roofing is becoming quite common—and lucrative.
The roof of the National Archives Building in Maryland (above) is literally
covered with BIPV panels. They were attached to the existing membrane using
hot-air welding (below). On sunny days, excess energy is sold back into the
power grid.
also result in substantial greenhouse
gas reductions. “This is one of the most
exciting projects I’ve worked on in my 17
years with GSA,” Piaskoski stated.
Metal Roofing Options
Built-in photovaltaics are becoming
quite common, and are available
for many different roofing systems,
including metal roofing.
SolarPower Restoration Systems
markets SolarSeal PV, a metal roof
system that
combines photovoltaic
technology with high-performance
elastomeric coatings.
According to
Michael Gunn, company vice-president,
it creates a leak-proof, energy-generating
roof over any standing seam or R-panel
industrial metal roofs.
“Commercial buildings with metal
roofs use industrial R-panel roof panels
or the newer architectural standingseam roof panels,” he says. “Both R-type
roof panels and the architectural snap
seam metal panels are waterproofed
using elastomeric coatings designed to
work with each specific type of metal
roof surface.”
Once the roofs are waterproofed,
solar modules are applied to the
coated metal surface. Materials such as
synthetic textiles, polymers, insulation
or radiant water modules are used to
bridge irregular metal panel surfaces and
exposed fasteners. Photovoltaic modules
are bonded to the components and
flashed and sealed, creating a continuous,
seamless, waterproofed roof surface.
“The SolarSeal Roof System is a
long-term solar waterproofing solution
for metal roofs,” says Gunn. “They’re easy
to maintain and can be renewed without
affecting the photovoltaic system’s power
production.”
He adds that, like SR-2001, the white
elastomeric coating reduces metal roof
surface temperatures and lowers cooling
cost.

SYSTEMS
W
hether used as a drainage board, underslab
insulation, or in roofing systems, every waterproofer
deals with foam board.
“Rigid foam insulation works very well with many
waterproofing systems,” explains John Cambruzzi at Insulfoam.
“It’s a product that is well established and well known from a
performance standpoint.”
In recent years, some have said that rigid Expanded
Polystyrene (EPS) foam was obsolete for below-grade
16
WATERPROOF!
applications, but Cambruzzi disagrees. “It has a long history of
excellent performance in both horizontal and vertical belowgrade applications,” he says.
The key is understanding the material, its strengths and
limitations, and ensuring that the waterproofing design takes
these traits into consideration.
Vertical Below-Grade
One of the most common construction applications for
Photos Courtesy John Cambruzzi/Sarnafil
F OA M I N
WATERPROOFING
EPS is use as a protection course or drainage layer on vertical
below-grade work. Dimple drain sheets, fiber mats, or inorganic
mineral wool are sometimes used instead, but Cambruzzi says
EPS has real merit.
“From a rigid foam standpoint, the advantage, with our
product, is the insulation value you’re getting,” he says. “If
you’re planning to insulate because you have working or living
space on the inside, EPS gives you an advantage that no other
product can.”
Dave Nichols, vice-president of marketing at Mar-Flex,
says rigid foam drain boards are popular for another reason as
well. He states, “Contractors use foam because it’s lightweight
and easy to install.”
It’s true that other materials require much more labor.
Foam boards are simply pressed against the newly waterproofed
wall, where the tackiness of the spray-applied membrane holds
it solidly in place until the wall is backfilled. Drain sheets, on the
other hand, require mechanical fasteners, transition strips, and
other components.
While Mar-Flex does sell rigid foam boards, Nichols insists
there are better options on the market.
“I’d rather have it than nothing, but there are better choices
in the waterproofing world,” he says, although he admits, “A
lot of times it’s the best answer for a foundation.” His major
objections are that the grooves in the drain board fill in, and that
foam compresses under the weight of the backfill.
Cambruzzi says current foam boards on the market have
resolved those concerns.
Spring 2009
17
"The biggest risk installers face
is that foam sheets will break and
chip before the concrete slab is
placed over them."
“Our product has a filter fabric on it that covers the
channels,” he says. “That keeps the sediment out of it. From
a long-term performance standpoint, we don’t have a problem
with those channels filling up with sediment.”
He also disagrees with claims that compression from
backfill pressure leads to a loss of R-Value. “Ground pressure has
a minimal impact on R-Value, and is not a big concern in terms
of long-term performance,” says Cambruzzi. “Our experience
indicates that the product compresses very little.” He adds that
Insulfoam can manipulate the density of the foam from as low
as 10 psi to as high as 60 psi. “If the specifier knows the load, we
can take expense out or add it in to meet job conditions.”
Both agree that a waterproof coating behind the drainage
layer is crucial. “The most important thing is protecting it from
moisture penetration,” says Nichols. “You need a good coating
18
WATERPROOF!
on the wall before you get a protection layer on that.”
Horizontal Below Grade
Another common area where waterproofers have to deal
with foam is when they are used in underslab applications. Like
vertical above-grade work, a membrane is used to eliminate
moisture coming through the slab, while the foam keeps the
concrete warm. This type of work is especially common with
in-floor hydronic heat or any time the slab itself has heating or
cooling elements within it.
Installation guidelines vary on whether the foam should
be installed on top of the moisture barrier, or beneath it (see
The Underslab Solution in the Winter 2009 issue for more
information), but the challenges are the same.
The biggest risk installers face is that foam sheets, often
only an inch thick, will break and chip before the concrete slab
is placed over them.
Sheets that are thick enough to avoid breakage cost more,
and provide negligible additional energy savings.
Luckily, there are good solutions on the market.
The most important step, regardless of the product installed,
is to ensure the subgrade is flat, level, and properly prepared.
Cambruzzi, at Insulfoam, says manufacturers can
manipulate the compressive strength of the foam to create a
more flexible product. “The higher the compressive strength of
the foam, the more rigid the product is, and the more susceptible
it is to breaking,” he states. “By taking some of the density out
of the product you’ll get a foam that’s more jobsite friendly.” He
notes that even a 25 psi foam provides resistance of 3,600 pounds
per sq. ft., plenty of resistance for most underslab applications.
His company also offers foam with a polymeric film on
both sides, which helps to keep the EPS from chipping and
shattering. If it does break, the film holds the pieces together so
the effect is negligible. “In a below slab-application, an unfaced
or unskinned product performs fine. But the film makes it more
jobsite durable, more moisture resistant, and less likely to be
damaged during handling and installation.
The plastic film on Insulfoam sheets does not serve as
waterproofing however.
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Spring 2009
19
For true waterproofing and insulation in a single product,
several companies offer underslab products that combine a
flexible EPS core with two layers of vapor and moisture resistant
materials.
Northwestern Ohio Foam Products markets the Barrier and
BarrierXT, both of which provide a flexible insulated underslab
barrier. The rolls are 60 feet long, so instead of having gaps
every 4 and 8 feet, there are just a few seams. The product has
a self-taping flange on one edge that makes these easy to seal.
“The biggest thing is installation cost,” says Wally
Radjenovic, president of NOFP. “Normally, the insulation and
the vapor barrier are discrete components, and it’s very time
consuming if you have to lay and tape two products. You’re
adding a lot of labor dollars to an already expensive product. By
combining them into a single product like the Barrier, it’s easier
to meet deadline, and you’re saving money, too.”
Of course, another advantage of a flexible core is that the
installer doesn’t have to be as exacting when installing the subbase, which saves on labor costs as well.
The flexible EPS foam in the standard Barrier is 3/8 inch
thick. The BarrierXT has ¾ inch. The moisture barrier is 3 mils
thick on both products.
Roofing
A third area where waterproofers often have to deal with
foam board is commercial roofing. Like underslab insulation,
the placement of the foam varies from job to job. On some roofs,
the foam is installed over the membrane; in other applications,
it is placed below it.
The major challenge in this area is that roofing membranes
often require heat and/or harsh solvents, both of which are
incompatible with foam.
“Foam plastic do not do well in the presence of solventbased adhesives,” says Cambruzzi. “In applications where these
solvents will come in contact with these products, the installer
or specifier needs to use a different insulation or have a plan
how to avoid contact, like using a slipsheet. Foam’s sensitivity
20
WATERPROOF!
to solvents is a drawback. It’s something that you would have to
recognize and address.”
Solvents are not only bad for foam, but they’re bad for the
environment and the installer’s health. Because of this, many
roofing suppliers are moving to more environmentally friendly
products; singly ply membranes, adhesive tapes, and heat
welded seams. So solvents are becoming less of an issue.
Long Term Performance
Another common concern is moisture resistance. While
foam is not as moisture resistant as, say, a dimple drain sheet,
it does outperform other insulation options, like rock wool or
open-cell foam. Cambruzzi points out that although EPS foam
will absorb some moisture from saturated soils, it readily gives
up that moisture when surroundings dry out. “Over a seasonal
or annual cycle, that foam will continue to perform, because it
readily gives up that moisture,” he states.
With the rising interest in green building, the sustainability
of expanded polystyrene is also a topic of interest. EPS is a
petroleum-derived product, and requires a significant amount
of energy to make and transport. But according to a recent
study published by the EPS Manufacturers’ Association
(EPSMA), the insulating value of the foam saves more than
100 times more energy than was used in its manufacture.
“EPS is environmentally friendly, 100% recyclable, containing
no HCFCs or formaldehyde and can contribute toward LEED
credit requirements,” the report states.
Some competing products have done a good job convincing
specifiers that EPS is not a good option,” says Cambruzzi,
“but EPS has a long history of excellent performance in both
horizontal and vertical below-grade applications. EPS has
been used in geofoam applications, going under exit ramps,
highways, and bridge approaches, and has performed just fine
in those harsh conditions.”
“When used with standard waterproofing products,
there are no real compatibility issues,” he continues. “They’re
operating and functioning independent of each other.”

R-Tech
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High Performance EPS
Insulfoam, the leader in block-molded EPS offers
R-Tech - an amazingly versatile, durable and
lightweight insulation that is 100% recyclable.
ENGINEERED EPS
Versatile - Durable - Recyclable
R-Tech is
available
as a 200 sq.ft. fanfold for protection board
applications as well as a variety of panel sizes,
thicknesses and densities for below-grade
insulating applications. R-Tech, the best choice
for your construction applications.
HEADQUARTERS
6004 N. Westgate Blvd. Suite 120
Tacoma, WA 98406
T 800.248.5995
F 253.383.7100
W W W . I N S U L F O A M . C O M
Photo Courtesy Sahara Waterproofing
1
Photo Courtesy Pedigo Construction
Sump Pumps:
3
Photo Courtesy Pedigo Construction
Photo Courtesy Allied Radon
4
5
22
WATERPROOF!
Advances and Installation
I
t’s a nightmare every homeowner
dreads:
The basement flooded,
belongings soaked. Carpeting and
drywall ruined and waterlogged.
While
a
comprehensive
waterproofing and drainage system has
many components, sump pumps are
considered the most crucial. Unlike
the membranes, drainage sheets, and
perforated pipe, which usually last for
the life of the structure, sump pumps
need to be replaced every few years.
But waiting for failure isn’t an
option, as it would inevitably lead to the
nightmare described above.
Fortunately, new pump technologies
and proper installation can ensure that
this critical piece of the system is fail-safe
and affordable.
Components
All sump pump systems have the
same five components, although they
vary in size based on the amount of water
they are required to handle.
In the United States, components
are fairly standardized. For residential
applications, they consist of:
1. A plastic or metal sump liner, either
18 or 24 inches in diameter and 2 to
3 feet deep.
2. A pump, usually 1/3 or 1/2
horsepower and powered by either
at 12-volt DC battery or standard
120-volt AC current.
3. A discharge pipe, typically 1 ½ inch
PVC.
4. A check valve to ensure the water
in the discharge pipe doesn’t flow
backwards back into the sump;
5. A cover to keep vermin, pets, and
debris out of the sump.
Sizing
Pump Size: A properly sized pump
is critical. Too small and it won’t be
able to keep up with water flowing
into the sump. Too large and it creates
unnecessary expense. An oversized
pump will also “short-cycle,” turning on
and off in rapid succession, which leads
to premature pump failure. So getting
the right pump is an important first step
to ensuring basements stay dry.
“It’s important that your pump can
draw water out of the basin (or “sump
Photo Courtesy Pedigo Construction
Photo Courtesy Champion Pump
2
also increases the chances the sump will
overflow, so be careful.
Power Supply
Direct-Wired: Almost all sump
pumps run on standard 120 volt AC
current, but the pump must be supplied
with its own line from the breaker box.
It must also have a dedicated breaker. In
most areas, the power supply must be
installed by a licensed electrician unless
the installer is also the homeowner. As
always, check with local building codes
and ordinances.
Pumps are usually hard wired into
the electrical system, rather than plugged
into a conventional outlet.
Battery-Powered: Sump pumps
face their highest loads during
The SmartHome sump pump (above)
is a next-generation batteryoperated sump pump. It is selftesting, self-diagnosing, and will
immediate notify the homeowner by
telephone and email if a component
stops functioning.
thunderstorms, when rainwater pours
into the sump pit from the foundation
drainage system.
Unfortunately,
thunderstorms can also disrupt a home’s
power supply, knocking the pump offline
at the time it is needed most. That’s why
"New pump technologies and
proper installation are a critical
piece of the system"
cheaper option may be to raise the height
of the pump switch, basically making the
sump deeper. This method, however,
Decking & Waterproofing Solutions
Engineered for Sustainable Protection
— Protect your
investment
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Photo Courtesy PeakFlow Pumps
pit”) faster than water flows into it,”
notes Duane Friend, at the University
of Illinois Extension Office. “Therefore,
the first thing you need to measure is
the amount of water that drains into the
basin during a high-flow period. During
a heavy rain, stick a ruler in the basin
and measure how many inches of water
flow into the basin in 60 seconds.”
With an 18-inch sump, each inch of
depth equals one gallon. In a 24-inchdiameter basin, each inch is roughly 2
gallons.
In a new construction situation,
approximate flow rates can be calculated
based on rainfall averages, soil type and
the size of a home’s footprint.
Once the volume of water that will
need to be removed has been calculated,
the installer will need to figure out the
“total dynamic head” of the discharge
pipe. This is the sum of the “static head”
(the height in feet between the pump
and the end of the discharge pipe) and
the “friction head.” Friction head is
calculated based on the length, diameter
and material of the discharge pipe, and
the number of turns involved. A table to
calculate friction head is available on the
www.waterproofmag.com website.
Knowing the maximum flow rate
figures, the total dynamic head pressure
involved, and the budget, the contractor
or designer can determine the best pump
for the application.
Basin Size: The size of the sump pit
is also important, as it plays a part in how
long the pump runs and how long it takes
to fill up. If the basin fills too quickly it
may be best to install a larger one.
If the basement is already finished, a
some homes—especially those with
finished basements—have a second
battery-powered sump pump in case
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Spring 2009
23
the first pump fails. In a few areas of the
country, where the sump pit only fills
occasionally, battery-operated pumps
are used as the primary.
Setting up a battery-powered
secondary pump involves purchasing
and installing the following components
in parallel with the others:
• A 12-volt DC sump pump matching
the flow and discharge requirements
of the primary pump.
• A 12-volt DC lead-acid battery.
A typical automobile battery is
adequate. Some use marine-grade
deep cycle batteries which are more
expensive, but lasts longer.
• A “trickle-charge” battery charger
to keep the lead acid battery fully
charged.
• A separate water level sensor, check
valve, and other components. The
discharge pipes usually connect
downstream of the check valves.
“One of the problems with most
backup sump systems is they are rarely
used so a component failure will not
be noticed and the system will fail to
operate when needed,” says Friend.
A few battery-powered pump
systems have an integral computer
that tests the system periodically and
sounds an alarm if something needs to
be replaced—like a “check engine” light
24
WATERPROOF!
on a car.
Regardless, Friend recommends
that backup systems be tested monthly.
“A good time to test is just after a rain
storm,” he says. “Pull the plug on the
sump pump so the sump well fills and
verify the backup system activates and
empties the well.”
Water-Driven: Recently, a few
manufacturers have begun offering sump
pumps that use the home’s culinary water
supply to power the pump. The pressure
in the home’s main water line turns an
impellor, which drives the pump. These
devices eliminate the need for electricity
entirely. They do cost more than motordriven pumps, but because they don’t
need a back-up pump, they can be costeffective.
Regardless of the type of pump
installed, plan on also using a simple
battery-powered water alarm. The water
sensor is attached to the sump liner a few
inches below floor level and will sound
a shrill alarm if the water level rises that
high.
Pump Type
Regardless of the type of power
supply, sump pumps are generally
divided into two classifications, pedestal
and submersible.
Pedestal pumps are mounted above
Discharge Pipe
The discharge pipe should end as far
from the house as possible, to prevent the
water from finding it’s way back under
the foundation.
In decades past, the pipe was often
connected to the sanitary sewer system.
This practice is now outlawed as it can
overwhelm the water treatment facilities.
Be aware that if you are retrofitting an
older home, codes and ordinances may
require you to also reroute the discharge
line.

Photo Courtesy Nu Image Home Improvement
Photo Courtesy Pedigo Construction
The discharge pipe (black pipe on right) should end as far from the house
as possible. Here, it has been routed to a dry well, with perforated pipe and
gravel to improve drainage.
the pit, where it is more easily serviced,
but also more conspicuous. Submersible
pumps sit inside the sump—usually
near the bottom—and are completely
immersed in the water.
The decision is usually based on
whether the basement is finished, or
will be, as the submersible pump is less
obtrusive.
In commercial applications,
submersible pumps are most common,
as they funtion on a different principle.
Unlike pedestal pumps that “suck” water
up from the sump like soda thorugh a
straw, submersible pumps “push” water
up the pipe.
Because pedestal pumps sit above
floor level, they are usually hidden
from sight in finished basements. This
can be a purpose-built enclosure, as
shown in the before-and-after photos
above, or by building the sump in a
closet or furnace room.
Green Sealants at the Bottom of the World
by Clark Ricks
P
rincess Elisabeth Station is not a typical construction
project. Built by a Belgian team to study the harsh
Antarctic environment, it was built in one of the
harshest and most remote regions of the planet. It was also
built with extremely demanding green building techniques.
When construction ended in February, it became the only
zero-emissions building on the continent—the first to operate
without releasing any greenhouse gases.
The 20 million euro ($26 million) science station is
completely energy self-sufficient, and uses micro-organisms to
re-use water up to five times. Power and hot water are made
possible by wind turbines on a nearby mountain and solar
panels mounted on the building.
The Antarctic research station is located in Dronning Maud
Land, thousands of miles south of the African coast.
Finding a long-lasting sealant that would perform in one
of the planet’s harshest climates, while still meeting the zeroemissions green building standard was one significant challenge
designers faced.
Scientists at Dow Corning said silicone sealants were up
to the challenge. Jean-Paul Hautekeer, European construction
director for Dow Corning explains, “Dow Corning silicones
are virtually unaffected by weather—rain, snow, humidity,
ozone, temperature variation or the sun’s damaging ultraviolet
rays—and can make building what we may think is impossible,
possible.”
26
WATERPROOF!
The silicone sealant used at Princess Elisabeth research
station has a proven record in extreme environments. It’s similar
to the product used in the silicone rubber boots astronauts wore
when they walked on the moon’s surface, where temperatures
drop to -150°C.
The final phase of the station’s construction lasted a
little over 4 months, and research teams will begin living there
as soon as November 2009 to conduct climate change research.
Engineer’s Corner
Tips for Protecting Building Aesthetics
By Larry Carbary
Because the physical condition of a building can
change greatly over time from such external forces
as sun, wind and rain, choosing materials that will
maximize the life and appearance of the structure,
while minimizing the amount of damage is crucial.
This is especially true in selecting a sealant. Here are
some of the most common aesthetic issues to consider:
Dirt Pick-Up – Accumulation of dirt on a sealant’s
surface is particularly prevalent on construction sites
with high volumes of dust. The actual amount of
dirt pick-up will vary with exposure conditions, but
excessive pollutant contamination will result in lower
durability and weaker bond strength. To avoid this,
choose a sealant that can tolerate higher levels of
contamination. Chalking – As the substrate begins to degrade
and erode over time, the surface becomes more rough
and porous, which leads to a loss of surface gloss and
color. Chalking is most observed in organic sealants
that are initially black or brown, but later transform
into a light grey or beige. This does not occur with
silicone or acrylic sealants. Change of Color – Change in color can result
from factors both inherent and external to the sealant. Incompatibility of the sealant with other building
materials is a contributing factor. Materials with
high incompatibility levels include low molecular
weight polymers, antioxidants, or tar. A sealant that
is compatible with a variety of other substrates is
preferable. Surface Crazing – A variety of factors including
sunlight, environmental stress and ageing can cause
cracks in the sealant’s surface. This is especially
common with organic sealants. Generally, sealants
with higher polymer content are more durable and
have less crazing. Fluid Migration – Fluids can migrate from a
sealant to the substrate, creating a dark “wet” band
look around the joint of the sealant. The extent and
rate of fluid migration varies with the type of sealant.
Cheaper, less formulated sealants are the most prone
to staining and fluid migration. Other Environmental Factors – Oxygen,
ultraviolet radiation, climate/temperature, microbial
growth
and
other
environmentally-induced
mechanisms can contribute to the fatigue and stress
that degrades and lowers the overall bond strength of
the sealant. While aesthetic issues cannot be completely
avoided, they can be mitigated through prior
knowledge; selection of high-quality, highperformance building materials; and working with a
reputable manufacturer. Larry Carbary is a Construction Associate Industry
Scientist at Dow Corning
Wet Basement? Flooded Lawns?
O F FER
2YO0UR%FIRST ORD
®
For Builders, Contractors and
Architects
Why use dry wells?
• Patent pending – limits
•
•
•
•
installation errors. Simply
place on the footing. Solves
wall and floor joint leakage.
Other designs include stone
on the footing which can
add to installation error.
Perfect for “pre pour” floors
Step by step instruction
manual and phone support
Available warranty
1•800•BUSY DOG
Ask for Dealer Support
* Limited to 100 feet or less
150
Pounds
y Rate
Porosit llons
a
of 55 G ute
in
per M
PATENTED
There is an easy solution… the
new patented Lawn Magnum®
by Basement Technologies®.
One Lawn Magnum® can
handle up to 3,000 gallons per
hour.
Dig
4’ Deep
simply
remarkable.
• DEALERSHIPS AVAILABLE •
Spring 2009
27
On the Market
Concrete Densifier And Hardener
Liqui-Hard Ultra, is a new concrete densifier and chemical
hardener from W.R. Meadows. It’s a ready-to-use, colorless
liquid which hardens and dustproofs concrete at a molecular
level.
When properly applied, the finished surface is substantially
more abrasion- and chemical-resistant, which significantly
improves the durability of the surface compared to untreated
concrete.
Liqui-Hard Ultra works
by penetrates into the concrete
surface, where a chemical
reaction takes place.
The
byproduct of this reaction fills
the pores of the concrete one
molecule at a time.
Introduced in the spring of
2009, the product is engineered
to provide timely, quick,
sustainable performance. Simply spray it on and let it penetrate
for 20 minutes.
Unlike traditional densifiers, Liqui-Hard Ultra does not
require brushing into the surface or rinsing. The product, when
fully cured, does leave a visible sheen on the surface.
Liqui-Hard Ultra is an environmentally safe, water-based
product with zero VOC content. The product is a part of the
W. R. Meadows Green Line of earth-friendly products, and will
help contribute to LEED-certified construction.
For more information call (847) 214-2100 or visit www.
wrmeadows.com.
Waterproofing and Climate Control for
the Construction Professional
Therma-Stor, LLC is proud to announce the release of
its new Quest line of portable climate control equipment.
Designed for the waterproofing, construction, and paintingand-coating professional, Quest portable equipment covers a
broad range of humidity, environmental, and indoor air quality
control applications. Current products
include:
• Portable Refrigerant
Dehumidifiers
• Portable Air Scrubbers with
HEPA Filtration
• Portable Air Conditioners
• Portable Desiccants and
Desiccant Drying Systems
• High Velocity Air Movers
This type of equipment improves
28
WATERPROOF!
jobsite safety and productivity through moisture control
and air purification. For instance, paint and coatings dry
faster, allowing multiple applications in shorter time periods.
In addition, Quest equipment will create a safer, more
comfortable working environment while the technicians are on
the jobsite. With its robust construction, high performance,
and portability, Quest is the perfect complement to successfully
complete any waterproofing, construction, and painting-andcoating project.
Therma-Stor unveiled the Quest product line at World of
Concrete 2009, in Las Vegas. For more information, call (800)
533-7533 or visit www.thermastor.com
Dow Water Repellant Sealant
Dow Corning, maker of a variety of silicone water repellents,
has added two new products to its lineup. Both are specifically
made to seal rock, stone, concrete, and similar materials.
The 6706W and 6707W Penetrating Stain Repellents are
water-based fluorosilane post-treatments that provide effective,
environmentally-sound water and oil repellency.
According to Shawn Kuch of Dow Corning’s building
materials protection group, substrates treated with the products
remain permeable to water vapor and retain their original
appearance with the additional benefits of reduced dirt pick-up
and easier cleaning.
“Environmental factors such as water, oil, stains, and
sunlight can have harmful effects on construction materials
by damaging surfaces, reducing aesthetic value, and increasing
maintenance costs,” said Kuch. “Dow Corning’s new family of
penetrating stain repellents provides durable, environmentally
sensitive protection to these materials without affecting their
appearance.”
The reason the products work so well on porous
construction materials like concrete, natural stone (such as
sandstone and limestone), pavers, mortar, and grout is due to
the small molecular size of the flourosilane, which allows it to
penetrate deeply and chemically bond to the substrates.
It creates a layer of protection that reduces water absorption
and the damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles.
The 6706W Penetrating Stain Repellent is a ready-to-use
product.
The 6707W product is a concentrate that can be diluted
with water. Both products are solvent-free and will not damage
glass, metal, wood, or most plastics.
Epoxy Paste for Crack Injection
Polybac#1003 from Polygem, Inc. is a fast-setting, lowodor epoxy paste that is specially formulated for sealing cracked
concrete prior to the injection of epoxy resin or polyurethane
grout.
Polybac#1003 is an easy-to-mix, two-part epoxy, which
gives the applicator up to 10 minutes of work time and will
be ready for injection in as little as 25 minutes. The thick nonsag paste will allow for vertical and overhead patching. It’s also
waterproof and will bond to damp surfaces, and will even cure
underwater.
Polybac#1003
is ideal for setting
injection
ports,
sealing crack surfaces,
setting anchor bolts,
repairing sea walls or
any other underwater
concrete repair, such
as aquarium and pool
repairs.
This product is
sold in convenient 22-oz. dual cartridges, two-quart kits and
two-gallon kits. For further information on this product please
contact our office at 630-231-5600 or visit www.polygem.com.
Economical Underslab Barrier
The Perminator underslab vapor barrier from W. R.
Meadows is a high-performance, economical choice to reduce
the penetration of moisture and water vapor through horizontal
concrete slabs.
Foundation Waterproofing Sprayers
1-877-APPLY-IT
» Increase Your Jobsite Productivity «
• Emulsion Units
• Solvent Units
• Gmax II 7900 Pump
• Heated 115 gal. Tank
• Electric Hose Reel
• Heat Exchanger
• Compact Design
• Easy to Use
www. appliedtechnologies .com
You’ll Never Have a
Wet Basement Again
F
20% O
F You’ll Never Have a
r*
orde
first
Your
Wet Basement Again.
OFrdFer*
O
rst
20ou%
i
F
r
Claimed to be “a new generation of polyolefin-based resin/
chemical technology,” it can help reduce fungus, mildew and
mold growth. Perminator also helps prevent radon gas from
entering the structure.
Perminator is tough, and can easily withstand normal
construction jobsite conditions. It will not crack, puncture,
snag, or split.
The product is available in 10 mil and 15 mil thicknesses,
and is furnished in 200’ (61 m) long rolls.
For more information call (847) 214-2100, e-mail
wrmil@wrmeadows.com, or visit www.wrmeadows.com.
Patent # 4,879,851
Y
®
The patented Hollow
system
is the latest
ThanksKick
to the Molding
patented Hollow
Kick Molding®
system,
in water drainagetheengineering,
designed
to solve
the most
latest in water drainage
engineering,
designed
to solve
the most severe water problems.
severe water problems.
• Increased effective inlet area
area
Ü Increased effective• inlet
Reduced
installation hours
• Attractive
hours floating slab detail
Ü Reduced installation
• Prevents covering of drainage
detail
Ü Attractive floating slab
opening
• 8.5drainage
gallons per opening
ft. per minute
Ü Prevents covering of
• Through floor drainage
minute
Ü 8.5 gallons per ft. per
molding
molding
Ü Through floor drainage
*Not to be combined with quantity discounts
For more information and
free information
sample, calland
For amore
a free sample, call
800-491-1750
800-491-1750
BOCCIA
INC
www.bocciabros.com/hkmpage.htm
* Offer may not be combined with quantity discounts
Spring 2009
29
Coming Up
Ta k e a p e e k a t w h a t ’ s c o m i n g u p i n t h e
Next Issue of
T
he Fall 2009 issue of Waterproof! Magazine will
be packed with the useful, practical information
waterproofing contactors have come to
expect from this publication. Here’s a peek at
what’s coming up:
Green Decks and Planter Boxes: Green
Building is taking the construction industry
by storm, and green decks and planter boxes
are becoming increasingly common. These
applications require innovative products and
well-trained contractors in order to succeed.
Below Grade Repair Strategies: This is one area of the
Want FREE Information?
For additional information on any
product advertised in this issue visit
www.
waterproofmag
.com/freeinfo
and submit an instant
request to any
advertiser in this issue.
Fall 2007
Spring 2008
Summer 2008
Winter
2009
Winter
2008
Midwest Flooding
Blindside
Crack Repair for CMU Foundations
Gettingofi
Roofsroo
to Perform
fing
ng
terp
pro
WaFlat
Water
Dealing with Drainage
Grade
ge Boards
on
Above
Sump
g and Draina
Pum
b Soluti Footin
ps Und
dersla
ical Landmark
er the
Stage
The Un
m RoofRoofing a Histor Fixing a Bro
x Stadiu
ken Fou
nda
Phoeni
Gree
$4.95
$4.95
$4.95
$4.95
n Ro
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tion
Built Up
Roofing
Crys
tallin
e Wa
Dim
terpro
ple Me
ofing
mbran
Deep
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Foun
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$4.95
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fs
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






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

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business that does well regardless of the economy. Here’s a
basic overview of basement repair, explaining crack injection,
piering, carbon-fiber products, and when
each should be used.
Advances in Coatings: New sprayapplied waterproofing coatings provide
better protection, faster cure times, less
health risks, and more durability.
In addition to these features, the
magazine will be full of the waterproofing news, technical
resources, products, and other information you need to be
successful.
Ad Index
Applied Technologies
29
Basement Technologies
27
Boccia, Inc.
29
Cetco
IFC
Applied Technologies
Epro Waterproofing Systems
BC
Basement Technologies
EZ Breathe
9
Boccia
Henry
3
Ames Research Laboratories
Cetco
Epro Waterproofing Systems
HouseGuard
IBC
EZ Breathe
Insulfoam
21
Henry
International Leak Detection
11
HouseGuard
JDR Enterprises (J-Drain)
17
Liberty Pumps
25
JDR Enterprises (J-Drain)
Mer-Ko (ParexLahabra)
23
Liberty Pumps
Nationwide Reinforcing
5
Polyguard Products
7
Polyguard Products
Therma-Stor (Quest)
15
Stronghold
Valeron Strength Films
19
Therma-Stor
W.R. Meadows
6
Waterproof.com
18
Hydraway
International Leak Detection
Mer-Ko (ParexLahabra)
Nationwide Reinforcing
Waterproof.com
W.R. Meadows
WATERPROOF! Magazine
10,30
Visit www.waterproofmag.com/freeinfo for product information from these advertisers
30
WATERPROOF!
A WET BASEMENT
SOAKS
EVERYBODY.
With HouseGuard
Residential and Commercial
Products You Prevent That.
TM
Foundations that let in damaging water mean customer
complaints and costly callbacks. Not what you need.....
especially right now. That’s why we provide you with the
highest quality, guaranteed waterproofing products and
technologically advanced system. Choose from
a wide variety of eco-friendly products including:
• TruDryTM Waterproofing Membrane
• ComfortDryTM Waterproofing Barrier
• EcoDriTM Waterproofing Membrane
• Dow PerimateTM Insulation Drainage Board
• TruShieldTM Stainblocker Preservative
• TruStopTM Crack Injection Kits
• 3M ScotchWeldTM Specialty Cylinder
Spray Adhesives
®
• Tamko TW-60 Self-Adhering Sheet
Waterproofing Membrane
A Dry Basement Starts With HouseGuardTM
HouseGuard • 8600 Berk Boulevard • Hamilton, OH 45015 • 800.560.5701
www.houseguard.com
R
S
EA
R
800-882-1896 •
OF DIFFE
RE
N
ON
FO
W a te r p r oo f i n g Sys tems
LD
I
TI
A
OR
CE
W
LW
ND
ORLD CO
www.eproserv.com
High Performance
Waterproofing and
Gas Barrier Systems
Epro Design
• Composite Technology (laminated components)
• Field Installed
• Monolithic
• Highly Adhesive
• Flexible Component Selection
Purpose of Design
• Superior Strength
• Simplifies Leak Detection
• Reduces the Effects of Future Movement
• Redundancy of Protection
• Maximizes Drainage Planes
• Custom Design for Special Requirements
Complete Redundancy
• Monolithic and Fully Bonded Barrier
• Multiple Waterproofing Barriers
• Multiple protection and Drainage Courses
Application Systems
• Concrete and Block Walls
• Blindside
• Beneath Slab
• Between Slab and Deck