Waterproofing Systems Comparison Guide
Compare elastomeric, polyurethane, cementitious, rubberized asphalt, and silicone waterproofing systems for commercial applications
| Service Type | Elongation | Application | Cure Time | Best Substrates | Temperature Range | Cost Level | Price Range | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Elastomeric Waterproofing Flexible acrylic or silicone-based coatings that stretch and recover with building movement | 300-500% stretch | Spray, roll, or brush | 24-48 hours per coat | Concrete, stucco, masonry | -40°F to 180°F | Low-Medium ($2-4/sq ft) |
$2 - $
4
per sq ft | 10-15 year service life |
Polyurethane Waterproofing High-performance chemical-resistant membranes for demanding applications | 400-800% stretch | Spray or roller | 4-24 hours (varies by type) | Concrete, metal, wood | -40°F to 200°F | Medium-High ($5-8/sq ft) |
$5 - $
8
per sq ft | 15-25 year service life |
Cementitious Waterproofing Cement-based coatings that become integral with concrete substrates | Low (rigid system) | Brush, spray, or trowel | 24-72 hours | Concrete, masonry only | 40°F to 120°F | Low ($1.50-3/sq ft) |
$1.5 - $
3
per sq ft | 20-30 year service life |
Hot-Applied Rubberized Asphalt Self-healing waterproofing membrane for below-grade and plaza deck applications | 200-300% stretch | Hot mop or spray | Immediate (cools quickly) | Concrete | -20°F to 160°F | High ($8-15/sq ft) |
$8 - $
15
per sq ft | 25-40 year service life |
Fluid-Applied Silicone UV-stable, breathable membrane for roof and exterior applications | 150-300% stretch | Spray or roller | 2-24 hours (moisture-cured) | Most substrates | -65°F to 200°F+ | Medium-High ($4-7/sq ft) |
$4 - $
7
per sq ft | 20-30 year service life |
Elastomeric Waterproofing
Flexible acrylic or silicone-based coatings that stretch and recover with building movement
Features:
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:
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:
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:
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:
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.
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
Average cost of water damage repair per incident
of building deterioration is caused by water intrusion
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Have more questions? Contact our experts or call (855) 666-2628
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Structural concrete repair services to restore substrates before waterproofing application.
Parking Deck Coatings
Traffic-bearing waterproofing membranes designed for parking structures and pedestrian areas.
Protect Your Property from Water Damage
Get professional waterproofing assessment with moisture testing and expert system recommendations. Free on-site evaluations.