CIM Industries Blog

It’s said that two heads are better than one. The same principle applies to waterproofing membranes. Typically, you apply a layer of CIM waterproofing, wait for one to four hours, then apply your second layer. This is all after choosing a waterproofing membrane, of course. This is the recoat window for most membranes, and it marks the period of maximum adhesion between layers. That said, there are innumerable reasons why you may miss this recoat period.

It happens, and it isn’t an issue for experienced applicators. With the right tools and technique, you can abrade (rough up) the surface of the membrane to improve its ability to bind well after the surface has set.

Let's begin by pondering this question: Why is waterproofing given less priority (left out entirely) during the pre-construction planning phase of any commercial or residential projects?  This trend is truly baffling as proper waterproofing care leads to innumerable benefits in the long-term life and performance of any construction project.

Related Article: Waterproofing is the Future of Construction

Identifying termination points and properly terminating waterproof coatings are two critical aspects of a waterproofing system’s long-term success. Whether you are applying the coating system to a roof, floor, tank, or fountain; in hot or cold climates; or to concrete, wood, steel, or any other construction materials, correctly terminating the waterproofing system is essential. 

Termination points are areas where the waterproofing membrane stops or is no longer applied.

Whether you are in the residential or commercial building industry or in the new construction or building maintenance business space, waterproofing is not something to be overlooked. Waterproofing systems work by creating physical barriers to water. They keep water out of places it doesn’t belong and in places where it does belong.

There's no avoiding the fact that concrete contains moisture, yet a critical component for successful adhesion of a coating system to a concrete substrate is having a dry substrate. Knowing how to test for moisture and addressing the conditions causing it are things all contractors should familiarize themselves with before applying coatings. Consulting with the coating manufacturer and reviewing the manufacturer's technical data sheets are excellent ways to gain this information. 

Environmental conditions can wreak havoc throughout all phases of a coating’s application, but what happens when the wrong tools are used during the mixing process or the material is mixed incorrectly?  To avoid negative effects of improper mixing, the manufacturer typically provide technical datasheets, application guidelines, and technical support to aid in the completion of a successful application. 

The most common method employed to tie into an existing hot rubberized asphalt system is to use more hot applied asphalt. This involves using hot kettles and can present some jobsite challenges, such as mobilization issues, safety concerns and foul odor. Cold-applied membranes can address all these concerns. Consult the manufacturer of the cold liquid-applied membrane to verify approval of application procedures. Manufacturers may be able to offer case histories, detail drawings, and application guidelines to help provide technical support needed for tie-in methodology.

Most methods, however, will include the steps listed below.