Overcoming environmental challenges for successful waterproofing job

By Pli-Dek.

Applying effective waterproofing to decks, patios and various outdoor areas can bring even more value, but to get the job done properly, it’s important to be aware of these common environmental challenges.

Decks, patios, walkways and various outdoor areas are desirable and often necessary features of building envelopes everywhere. But for construction and roofing professionals, delivering the most value in these areas involves applying a reliable waterproofing system.

Why? When applied to decks, patios, walkways and other areas, waterproofing systems can help to prevent numerous problems from moisture causing rot in the plywood or concrete over time. Yet not all bother to apply such a system upon initial installation of the deck or patio. It’s often not mandatory or required by common building codes — but that doesn’t make it any less important in ensuring the longevity and performance of deck systems.  

For successful waterproofing projects, it’s important for contractors and other professionals to apply these waterproofing systems properly. And a major part of doing so is knowing how weather and other environmental factors can impact application. Here’s what you need to know:

How moisture impacts waterproofing applications

Dry conditions are required for coatings to properly dry and cure, making it important for professionals to avoid wet and rainy conditions when completing waterproofing jobs. This can become an obvious problem in particularly wet climates — when possible, it’s preferrable to complete deck and patio waterproofing jobs during the summer months when dry conditions are more likely.

Rain can impact a waterproofing job beyond the day of initial application. Waterproof coatings typically require several days to completely dry and set. Before that happens, your waterproofing system is likely sensitive to water, which can interfere with long-term performance. Pay attention to the weather forecast to make sure it won’t rain for several days after the application.

Successful waterproofing also depends on proper surface preparation, which involves thoroughly cleaning the deck or patio surface before the waterproof coating system is applied. This is because the system’s elastomers and polymers must properly bond with the substrate — dirt and mold can interfere with this process. After you’ve cleaned the surface, it’s important to wait a few days before applying the system to ensure that your substrate is completely dry.  

Paying attention to air and surface temperatures

Professionals must also consider air temperature in order to successfully apply waterproof coating systems.

Moderate weather conditions are best here. At minimum, applicators should seek application days that do not drop below 45 F. Conditions colder than that can lead to drying issues, impacting how the system will perform over the long term. The curing process becomes especially problematic when temperatures drop toward freezing.

Likewise, too-hot conditions can also interfere with proper application. Flash drying could occur when temperatures jump above 90 F. It’s all the more reason to find a time when you have moderate weather before doing the entire waterproofing process.

Importantly, surface temperatures of your substrate can also exacerbate problems with the drying and bonding process. Again, flash drying in too-hot conditions can severely impact the coating, leading to the appearance of bubbles and blisters. Not only will these issues negatively impact the aesthetic of your surface, but they can interfere with long-term performance.  For these reasons, it can be effective to apply coatings in the morning or evenings to avoid temperature extremes.

Utilizing the right waterproofing solutions

Armed with the knowledge on how environmental conditions can impact your waterproofing jobs, it’s also important to select the right waterproofing systems to deliver the performance and value your customers demand.

Trusted by professionals for decades, Pli-Dek Waterproofing Systems are tried-and-true cementitious waterproofing solutions for numerous substrates that help create beautiful and durable high-performance decks, patios and walkways as well as various other outdoor areas. Pli-Dek demonstrates the performance necessary to meet stringent requirements and approvals for inclement weather and high fire zone areas, including ASTM’s roofing standards, helping building and construction professionals gain full confidence in their work.

Pli-Dek is part of ICP Group’s comprehensive portfolio that includes roof coatings, waterproofing systems and deck coatings, air barriers and much more. ICP focuses on bringing top-performing products to market that contribute to long-lasting building systems that offer flexibility and innovation to contractors. ICP also provides training opportunities for applicators, enabling them to install products like Pli-Dek with greater ease and confidence. For training requests, please reach out to info@icpgroup.com.

Waterproofing systems can deliver greater value to decks, patios, walkways and other outdoor areas everywhere. Armed with the right knowledge, contractor professionals can take advantage of these products to deliver long-lasting value for customers.