Waterproofing Systems Comparison Guide

Compare elastomeric, polyurethane, cementitious, rubberized asphalt, and silicone waterproofing systems for commercial applications

Elastomeric Waterproofing

Flexible acrylic or silicone-based coatings that stretch and recover with building movement

Features:

Elongation:300-500% stretch
Application:Spray, roll, or brush
Cure Time:24-48 hours per coat
Best Substrates:Concrete, stucco, masonry
Temperature Range:-40°F to 180°F
Cost Level:Low-Medium ($2-4/sq ft)

Price Range:

$2 - $ 4 per sq ft

Best For:

  • Exterior walls
  • Stucco buildings
  • Above-grade applications

Pros:

  • + Excellent crack bridging ability
  • + UV stable for exposed applications
  • + Breathable (allows moisture vapor)
  • + Cost-effective for large areas

Cons:

  • - Not suitable for ponding water
  • - Requires periodic recoating (10-15 yrs)
  • - Limited chemical resistance

Polyurethane Waterproofing

High-performance chemical-resistant membranes for demanding applications

Features:

Elongation:400-800% stretch
Application:Spray or roller
Cure Time:4-24 hours (varies by type)
Best Substrates:Concrete, metal, wood
Temperature Range:-40°F to 200°F
Cost Level:Medium-High ($5-8/sq ft)

Price Range:

$5 - $ 8 per sq ft

Best For:

  • Parking decks
  • Industrial floors
  • Chemical exposure areas

Pros:

  • + Superior chemical resistance
  • + Handles ponding water
  • + Excellent abrasion resistance
  • + Seamless monolithic membrane

Cons:

  • - Higher material cost
  • - Requires professional application
  • - Some types moisture-sensitive during cure

Cementitious Waterproofing

Cement-based coatings that become integral with concrete substrates

Features:

Elongation:Low (rigid system)
Application:Brush, spray, or trowel
Cure Time:24-72 hours
Best Substrates:Concrete, masonry only
Temperature Range:40°F to 120°F
Cost Level:Low ($1.50-3/sq ft)

Price Range:

$1.5 - $ 3 per sq ft

Best For:

  • Foundations
  • Water tanks
  • Below-grade walls

Pros:

  • + Bonds permanently to concrete
  • + Breathable system
  • + Can be applied to damp surfaces
  • + Most economical option

Cons:

  • - No flexibility (cracks with movement)
  • - Cannot bridge existing cracks
  • - Limited to masonry substrates

Hot-Applied Rubberized Asphalt

Self-healing waterproofing membrane for below-grade and plaza deck applications

Features:

Elongation:200-300% stretch
Application:Hot mop or spray
Cure Time:Immediate (cools quickly)
Best Substrates:Concrete
Temperature Range:-20°F to 160°F
Cost Level:High ($8-15/sq ft)

Price Range:

$8 - $ 15 per sq ft

Best For:

  • Plaza decks
  • Below-grade
  • Blindside applications

Pros:

  • + Self-healing properties
  • + Excellent puncture resistance
  • + Immediate water resistance
  • + Bonds to damp concrete

Cons:

  • - Requires specialized equipment
  • - Hot application (safety concerns)
  • - Not UV stable (must be covered)

Fluid-Applied Silicone

UV-stable, breathable membrane for roof and exterior applications

Features:

Elongation:150-300% stretch
Application:Spray or roller
Cure Time:2-24 hours (moisture-cured)
Best Substrates:Most substrates
Temperature Range:-65°F to 200°F+
Cost Level:Medium-High ($4-7/sq ft)

Price Range:

$4 - $ 7 per sq ft

Best For:

  • Flat roofs
  • Skylights
  • Exposed applications

Pros:

  • + Excellent UV resistance
  • + Handles ponding water
  • + Breathable membrane
  • + Long service life

Cons:

  • - Moisture required for cure
  • - Cannot be overcoated with most materials
  • - Dirt pickup on horizontal surfaces

Need Help Choosing the Right Service?

Our experts will assess your needs and recommend the best solution for your property.

Commercial Waterproofing Coating Systems

Protect your property investment with professional waterproofing systems. Complete solutions for parking decks, foundations, roofs, and building envelopes—backed by 15-25 year warranties.

30+
Years Waterproofing Experience
2500+
Waterproofing Projects Completed
15-25
Year System Warranties
24/7
Emergency Service Available
100%
Moisture Testing Included
10+
Waterproofing Systems Offered

Professional Waterproofing for Building Protection

Water intrusion is the leading cause of building deterioration and structural damage. With over 30 years of waterproofing experience, Moorhouse Coating provides comprehensive waterproofing solutions that protect your property investment for decades.

We don't just apply waterproofing coatings—we engineer complete moisture management systems. Our approach begins with thorough assessment using infrared thermal imaging and moisture mapping, followed by substrate repair, proper surface preparation, and application of the optimal waterproofing system for your specific conditions.

From parking deck traffic membranes to below-grade foundation waterproofing, we select and install systems backed by industry-leading warranties. Our documentation packages include moisture testing records, application data, and maintenance recommendations for long-term performance.

Waterproofing Capabilities

  • Parking deck traffic-bearing membranes
  • Foundation and below-grade waterproofing
  • Roof and plaza deck systems
  • Elastomeric wall coatings
  • Polyurethane and silicone membranes
  • Cementitious crystalline waterproofing
  • Infrared leak detection and assessment

Waterproofing Applications

Commercial Buildings

Office buildings, retail centers, and commercial structures requiring complete waterproofing protection for roofs, facades, and foundations.

Parking Structures

Multi-level parking decks and garages needing traffic-bearing waterproofing membranes with chemical and abrasion resistance.

Industrial Facilities

Manufacturing plants, warehouses, and processing facilities requiring chemical-resistant waterproofing systems.

Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals and medical centers requiring reliable waterproofing to protect critical infrastructure and prevent mold growth.

Residential Multi-Family

Condominiums, apartments, and HOA properties needing balcony, plaza deck, and foundation waterproofing.

Water Treatment

Treatment plants, pump stations, and reservoirs requiring immersion-grade waterproofing and chemical resistance.

Waterproofing Systems Comparison

System Type Elongation Best For Service Life Cost Range
Elastomeric Waterproofing 300-500% stretch Exterior walls 10-15 year service life Low-Medium ($2-4/sq ft)
Polyurethane Waterproofing 400-800% stretch Parking decks 15-25 year service life Medium-High ($5-8/sq ft)
Cementitious Waterproofing Low (rigid system) Foundations 20-30 year service life Low ($1.50-3/sq ft)
Hot-Applied Rubberized Asphalt 200-300% stretch Plaza decks 25-40 year service life High ($8-15/sq ft)
Fluid-Applied Silicone 150-300% stretch Flat roofs 20-30 year service life Medium-High ($4-7/sq ft)

The Cost of Water Intrusion

$10,000+

Average cost of water damage repair per incident

40%

of building deterioration is caused by water intrusion

3x

more expensive to repair than prevent with waterproofing

Waterproofing FAQs

Q1: What types of waterproofing coatings do you offer?

We offer complete waterproofing solutions including: elastomeric coatings (acrylic and silicone-based), polyurethane waterproofing membranes, cementitious crystalline waterproofing, hot-applied rubberized asphalt, fluid-applied silicone systems, and sheet membrane systems. Each type serves specific applications—elastomeric for walls and roofs, polyurethane for parking decks and heavy traffic, cementitious for foundations and water tanks, and rubberized asphalt for plaza decks and below-grade applications. We assess your specific conditions and recommend the optimal system.

waterproofing types elastomeric coatings polyurethane membranes

Q2: How long do waterproofing coatings last?

Waterproofing system longevity varies by type: elastomeric coatings typically last 10-15 years, polyurethane systems provide 15-25 years of protection, cementitious waterproofing lasts 20-30 years when properly installed, and hot-applied rubberized asphalt can last 25-40 years in below-grade applications. Factors affecting lifespan include UV exposure, traffic wear, proper installation, surface preparation quality, and maintenance program. We provide system-specific warranties and maintenance recommendations to maximize service life.

waterproofing lifespan coating durability system longevity

Q3: Can waterproofing coatings stop active leaks?

Waterproofing coatings are preventive systems, not leak repair products. Active leaks must be identified, stopped, and substrates allowed to dry before waterproofing application. Our process includes: infrared thermal imaging to identify hidden moisture, moisture mapping to document leak sources, structural repairs to stop water intrusion, drying time (moisture content verification), and then waterproofing application. Attempting to apply waterproofing over active leaks will cause adhesion failure and system delamination.

leak repair active water intrusion moisture remediation

Q4: What surfaces can be waterproofed?

We waterproof virtually all building surfaces: concrete (foundations, slabs, walls, decks), masonry (CMU, brick, stone), stucco and EIFS, metal roofs and panels, wood substrates, fiberglass, and specialty materials. Each substrate requires specific waterproofing systems—cementitious for concrete, flexible membranes for substrates with movement, specialized primers for metal, and vapor-permeable systems for below-grade applications. We evaluate substrate compatibility and select appropriate systems.

waterproofing substrates surface compatibility substrate preparation

Q5: How much does commercial waterproofing cost?

Commercial waterproofing costs range from $1.50 to $15 per square foot depending on system type and complexity. Basic cementitious waterproofing: $1.50-3/sq ft, elastomeric coatings: $2-4/sq ft, polyurethane membranes: $5-8/sq ft, silicone systems: $4-7/sq ft, and hot-applied rubberized asphalt: $8-15/sq ft. Factors affecting cost include substrate condition, accessibility, required detailing, warranty level, and project size. We provide detailed estimates after on-site assessment.

waterproofing cost commercial pricing project estimation

Q6: What's the difference between waterproofing and water-resistant coatings?

Waterproofing coatings provide complete water barrier protection—they prevent water penetration under hydrostatic pressure (water pushing against the surface). Water-resistant coatings reduce water absorption but cannot withstand hydrostatic pressure and may allow moisture penetration over time. For critical applications like foundations, below-grade walls, parking decks, and any area subject to water pressure, true waterproofing is required. Water-resistant coatings are adequate only for vertical surfaces with minimal water exposure.

waterproofing vs water-resistant hydrostatic pressure moisture protection

Q7: How do you test for moisture before waterproofing?

We use multiple moisture testing methods: pin-type moisture meters for surface readings, non-destructive pinless meters for subsurface moisture, calcium chloride testing per ASTM F1869 for MVER (moisture vapor emission rate), relative humidity testing per ASTM F2170 using in-situ probes, and infrared thermal imaging to identify hidden moisture patterns. For concrete, we verify moisture levels are within manufacturer specifications—typically <15% moisture content and <3 lbs/1000 sq ft/24 hr MVER for most waterproofing systems.

moisture testing concrete moisture substrate assessment

Q8: Do you provide warranties on waterproofing systems?

Yes, we provide comprehensive warranties covering both materials and labor. Standard warranties range from 5-25 years depending on system type: elastomeric coatings (10-15 year warranty), polyurethane systems (15-20 year warranty), cementitious (10-20 year warranty), and premium systems with extended warranties up to 25 years. Warranties are backed by major manufacturers including Tremco, Sika, Carlisle, and BASF. Warranty coverage requires following maintenance recommendations and annual inspection protocols.

waterproofing warranty manufacturer warranty labor warranty

Q9: Can you waterproof parking decks and garages?

Yes, parking deck waterproofing is a specialty service requiring specific systems designed for traffic wear, chemical exposure (salt, oil, fuel), and thermal cycling. We install polyurethane traffic-bearing membranes with broadcast aggregate for slip resistance, elastomeric deck coatings with UV stability, and complete joint treatment systems. Parking deck waterproofing extends structural life by preventing chloride-induced reinforcing steel corrosion—the leading cause of parking structure deterioration. We follow ACI, ICRI, and manufacturer guidelines.

parking deck waterproofing traffic membrane structural protection

Q10: How do you handle foundation waterproofing?

Foundation waterproofing requires systems that withstand hydrostatic pressure and ground moisture. Our approach includes: excavation and exposure of foundation walls (for existing buildings), substrate repair and surface preparation, application of cementitious or rubberized asphalt waterproofing, installation of drainage board and protection course, and proper drainage system integration. For new construction, we can apply waterproofing from the positive (exterior) side. For occupied buildings, we may use negative-side (interior) cementitious crystalline systems.

foundation waterproofing below-grade waterproofing hydrostatic protection

Q11: What preparation is required before waterproofing?

Proper surface preparation is critical for waterproofing system performance. Our preparation includes: repair of cracks, spalls, and honeycombing, removal of laitance, curing compounds, and contaminants, achieving proper surface profile (CSP 3-5 for most systems), moisture testing and remediation if needed, temperature and humidity verification, and priming per manufacturer specifications. Inadequate surface preparation is the leading cause of waterproofing failure—we document all preparation steps and verify conditions before application.

surface preparation waterproofing prep substrate requirements

Q12: Can waterproofing be applied in cold weather?

Most waterproofing systems require minimum temperatures for proper application and cure: elastomeric coatings need 50°F and rising, polyurethanes require 40-50°F minimum (varies by formulation), and cementitious systems need 40°F minimum with protection from freezing. We monitor ambient and surface temperatures, use heated enclosures when necessary, and may specify cold-weather formulations for winter projects. Hot-applied systems have more flexibility since they bring their own heat. We plan projects around optimal application windows when possible.

cold weather waterproofing temperature requirements winter application

Q13: How long does waterproofing installation take?

Project timelines vary by scope and system type. A typical 10,000 sq ft parking deck requires 5-7 days: moisture testing and surface prep (1-2 days), primer application and cure (1 day), membrane application with multiple coats (2-3 days), and final inspection (1 day). Foundation waterproofing may require additional time for excavation. Factors affecting timeline include existing condition, weather windows, cure times between coats, and access constraints. We provide detailed schedules during project planning.

waterproofing timeline project duration installation schedule

Q14: What maintenance does waterproofing require?

Waterproofing systems require periodic maintenance for optimal performance: annual visual inspections for damage, UV degradation, or ponding water, cleaning to remove debris and organic growth, sealant replacement at joints and penetrations (every 5-7 years typically), touch-up of traffic wear areas on parking decks, and recoating when wear or thickness reduction is observed. We provide maintenance programs including inspection reports, prioritized repair recommendations, and scheduled maintenance to maximize system life.

waterproofing maintenance annual inspection system upkeep

Q15: Do you offer emergency waterproofing repairs?

Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency response for active leaks and waterproofing failures. Our emergency services include: temporary leak mitigation to stop active water intrusion, moisture mapping to identify leak sources, emergency repairs using quick-cure materials, and development of permanent remediation plans. Emergency repairs prevent ongoing water damage while we plan comprehensive solutions. For critical facilities (data centers, healthcare, manufacturing), we maintain rapid response capability with emergency material inventory.

emergency waterproofing leak repair rapid response

Have more questions? Contact our experts or call (855) 666-2628

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