Why ICC Approval Matters When Choosing Waterproofing Sealers

When building a home or sealing concrete, you want to make sure you’re using the best materials available. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which products will truly perform? One of the best ways to ensure quality is to look for ICC-approved materials. At Deco Products Inc., we take pride in offering top-tier waterproofing sealers, including Deco 20 Seal, Deco 20 DampProof, and Deco 20 Penetrating Clear Sealer (PCS)—all of which are ICC-approved to meet the highest industry standards.

What Is the ICC and Why Is It Important?

The International Code Council (ICC) is a third-party, unbiased organization that reviews building materials to ensure they meet strict industry standards. The ICC evaluates products based on ASTM (American Standard Test Method) requirements, which means each material is tested to prove it does what it claims to do.

Having ICC approval isn’t just a label—it’s a stamp of trust. It means that an independent organization has thoroughly inspected the manufacturing process and verified that the products are safe, effective, and reliable. Manufacturers with ICC-approved products, like Deco Products, go through audits twice a year to ensure they are consistently producing top-quality materials. This means when you use an ICC-approved product, you’re getting something that meets the highest standards every time.

The Deco Products Advantage: ICC-Approved Waterproofing Sealers

At Deco Products, we don’t just sell sealers—we manufacture them with quality, durability, and compliance in mind. Our Deco 20 Seal, Deco 20 DampProof, and Deco 20 Penetrating Clear Sealer (PCS) are all ICC-approved, meaning they’ve been tested and verified to work as promised.

Deco 20 Seal

A high-performance waterproofing membrane that utilizes an advanced hybrid acrylic resin. It is specifically engineered to meet the rigorous demands of foundation wall waterproofing, working effectively on parged and non-parged masonry, pre-cast, and poured concrete surfaces.

Deco 20 DampProof

A modern alternative to traditional bituminous coatings, this product is ideal for damp proofing masonry block, pre-cast, and poured concrete foundation walls. It provides a reliable moisture barrier without the environmental concerns associated with older bituminous products.

Deco 20 Penetrating Clear Sealer (PCS)

A specialized penetrating sealer that replaces bituminous coatings for damp proofing masonry block, pre-cast, and poured concrete foundations. Designed to meet the strict environmental standards of the damp proofing industry, this clear sealer deeply penetrates surfaces to offer long-lasting moisture protection.

Why Buy from an ICC-Approved Manufacturer?

When choosing waterproofing sealers, not all products are created equal. Many brands claim to offer high performance, but without ICC approval, there’s no guarantee that their materials will hold up over time. Here’s why purchasing from an ICC-approved manufacturer like Deco Products Inc. is the best choice:

1. Verified Performance – Our products have passed rigorous ASTM testing and ICC evaluation, so you can trust they will work as intended.

2. Consistent Quality – Regular ICC audits ensure we maintain high manufacturing standards, so you get the same reliable results every time.

3. Industry Compliance – ICC-approved materials meet building codes, making them the preferred choice for contractors, builders, and property owners.

4. Long-Term Protection – By using proven, tested products, you avoid costly repairs and failures caused by subpar sealers.

The Deco Products Commitment

At Deco Products Inc., we believe in providing the best products for the job. By manufacturing ICC-approved waterproofing sealers, we help builders, contractors, and homeowners protect their investments with confidence. Our dedication to compliance and quality means that when you choose Deco, you’re choosing a proven, tested, and trustworthy solution.

If you’re looking for a high-performance waterproofing sealer, don’t settle for anything less than ICC-approved quality. Contact Deco Products today to learn more about our industry-leading solutions and how they can benefit your next project.

How to Select the Correct Sealant for Your Substrate

Choosing the right sealant for a surface might seem like a simple task, but making an informed decision is essential for achieving long-lasting results. The first step in this process is understanding your substrate. Whether you’re sealing a driveway, a patio, or a commercial space, identifying the material and its specific needs will set you on the path to success. Here’s how to get started:

1. Identify the Type of Substrate

Not all substrates are created equal. The material you’re sealing will heavily influence the type of sealant you need. Common substrate types include:

• Concrete: Durable but porous, concrete benefits from penetrating sealers or surface sealers, depending on the desired finish.
• Asphalt: Requires specialized sealants like those designed for driveways, which protect against UV damage and cracking.
• Pavers: Often need joint sand stabilization along with sealing to enhance durability and appearance.
• Natural Stone: Needs a breathable, non-yellowing sealant that protects without altering the stone’s natural beauty.
• Brick: Porous and prone to efflorescence, brick requires a water-repellent sealant.

Take the time to assess the material to ensure compatibility with the sealant you select.

2. Evaluate the Surface Condition

Before sealing, evaluate the substrate’s condition. This step helps determine if additional preparation is needed:

• Existing Sealers: If there is an old sealant on the surface, you may need to strip it before applying a new one, especially if switching from a topical to a penetrating sealer.
• Cracks or Damage: Repair any cracks or structural damage to prevent issues down the line.
• Moisture Levels: Ensure the substrate is dry before sealing. Moisture trapped beneath a sealant can lead to failure.
• Efflorescence and Stains: Clean the surface thoroughly to remove white chalky deposits or stains that could compromise the sealant’s adhesion.

3. Consider Environmental Factors

Your environment plays a significant role in sealant selection. Ask yourself:

• Will the surface be exposed to UV rays?
• Does it face harsh weather conditions like freeze-thaw cycles?
• Is there frequent contact with salt, chemicals, or water?
• Will it experience heavy foot or vehicle traffic?

For example, driveways in snowy regions benefit from sealants that resist deicing salts and freeze-thaw damage, while sunny patios may need UV-stable sealers to prevent discoloration.

4. Define Your Desired Finish

Another key consideration is the look you want to achieve. Sealants come in various finishes, such as:

• Matte: Maintains a natural appearance with subtle protection.
• Enhanced: Deepens the natural appearance of the color with a crystal finish.
• Glossy or Wet Look: Enhances color vibrancy and adds shine.
• Invisible/Clear: Provides protection without altering the surface’s appearance.

Select a finish that complements the aesthetics of your project.

5. Match the Sealant to Your Needs

Once you’ve identified the substrate, assessed its condition, and considered environmental factors, you’re ready to choose the ideal sealant. Look for products specifically designed for your material and application, and consider manufacturer recommendations to ensure long-term performance.

The Best Choice for Your Substrate

Selecting the right sealant starts with understanding your substrate and its unique needs. By taking the time to assess the material, evaluate its condition, and factor in environmental challenges, you’ll be equipped to make the best choice. Proper preparation and product selection can save you time and money, ensuring your sealed surface stays protected and looks great for years to come. If you have questions give us a call and let us know how we can help at 800-500-DECO (3326).

Expand Your Business: Add Paver and Concrete Sealing with Deco Products Inc.

If you’re looking to expand your service offerings, paver and concrete sealing is a high-demand, low-cost opportunity. At Deco Products Inc., we make it easy for you to add this service to your business. With minimal capital investment, simple tools, and free training, you can start sealing pavers and concrete like a pro in no time.

Essential Tools to Get Started

Adding paver and concrete sealing requires only a few basic tools, making it an affordable way to grow your concrete and pavers contractor business. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Seal Sprayer: Even application is key to achieving professional results, and a quality sprayer ensures precision.
• Broom: Critical for the re-sand process, the broom helps work joint sand into the gaps between pavers for a secure, finished look.
• ASTM C144 Joint Sand: The ICPI (International Concrete Paver Institute) approves this high-quality sand to ensure stability and durability.
• Roller Brush: Back rolling with a roller brush is necessary to smooth out the sealer and eliminate puddling for a flawless finish.
• Sealer Products: Deco Products offers environmentally friendly options tailored to paver and concrete surfaces, ensuring you get the right product for every job.

Free Training for Confident Application

We believe in setting you up for success. Deco Products provides free training to teach you the best practices for surface preparation, re-sanding, and applying sealer. Whether you’re new to sealing or enhancing your current services, our training ensures you feel confident using our products.

Why Choose Deco Products?

• Affordable Startup: With just a few tools and products, you can easily begin offering this valuable service.
• Environmentally Friendly Products: Our sealers are green and effective, helping you meet customer demands for sustainable solutions.
• Proven Support: As a trusted manufacturer, we offer resources and guidance to help you succeed.
• Customer Demand: Protecting pavers and concrete from wear, stains, and weather is a growing priority for property owners.

Grow Your Business Today

Paver and concrete sealing is a simple, cost-effective way to add value to your services and attract more customers. With Deco Products’ expert training, high-quality materials, and minimal startup costs, you’ll be ready to provide this in-demand service with confidence.

Paver Sealing Profitability: Calculating Your ROI on Deco Products

Are you tired of working hard all week only to find your bank account looks empty?

A lot of pros fall into the same trap. They bid low just to get the job. But after they pay for gas, help, and sealer, there’s nothing left for them. If you’re just guessing on your prices, you don’t own a business—you just own a stressful job.

To build a business that lasts, you have to know your ROI (Return on Investment). That’s just a fancy way of saying: “How much money do I keep after the bills are paid?”

Why Are Your Profits Disappearing?

Most professionals lose money because they don’t track the small stuff. If you don’t know exactly what you spend on prep, spraying, and overhead, you are just throwing darts in the dark.

When you know your real numbers, you can bid with confidence. You won’t have to worry about the “low-baller” down the street because you’ll know exactly what it takes to do the job right and still get paid.

Breaking Down the Costs

To find your profit, you have to look at three things:

1. Materials: What you pay for the sealer. Using cheap sealer often costs more later because of “callbacks” (when a customer calls you to fix a peeling or turning-white mess).
2. Labor: What you pay your crew (and yourself!) from the moment you load the truck until the job is cleaned up.
3. Overhead: The “hidden” costs like gas, insurance, equipment repairs, and the time you spend on the phone with customers.

Step-by-Step ROI Calculation Using a Real Job Example

Let’s walk through a hypothetical project: a 1,500-square-foot paver patio using Deco 20 Clear Paver Sealer.

• Material Calculation: Deco 20 Clear typically covers 300 square feet per gallon, depending on porosity. At an average of $.12 sq. ft. per gallon, you will need 5 gallons. If your cost is roughly $36 per gallon, your material investment is $180.
• Labor Calculation: Let’s say prep and application take two people 6 hours total (12 man-hours). If you pay $25/hour, your labor cost is $300.
• Overhead Allocation: For a job this size, you should allocate roughly $150 to cover equipment, fuel, and insurance.
• Total Job Cost: $1,180 (Material) + $300 (Labor) + $150 (Overhead) = $630.

If you bid this job at $1.25 per square foot ($1,875 total), your net profit is $1,245. This represents a healthy concrete sealing ROI and ensures your business stays profitable. If you were “guessing” and bid at $0.60 per square foot, you would barely make any money.

Increasing Profitability Without Cutting Corners

The faster you finish a job (without cutting corners), the more money you make. Deco Products are designed to save you time. Our water-based, environmentally safe formulas are easy to spray and clean up, reducing the hours spent on a job site.

Consistent results mean you aren’t wasting material or returning for unpaid re-work. By refining your processes through proper training, you can scale your profits by doing more jobs in less time rather than lowering your prices to compete with uncertified amateurs.

Join the Deco Team

At Deco Products, we want to be your partner, not just your supplier. We make our sealers right here in the USA and offer free training to help you become a pro.

When you become a Certified Deco Applicator, we’ll help you understand your numbers so you can grow a business you’re proud of.

Reach out to us today here and take the first step in growing your business!

How to Store Concrete Sealers in Cold Weather: Winter Storage Tips

As temperatures drop, it’s important to ensure your Deco Products construction waterproofing and decorative sealers are protected and ready for action come spring. Our sealers are crafted with care, right here in Denver, Colorado, using water-based, environmentally friendly formulas. These products give high-performance protection to surfaces and protect the environment, but they need a little help from you to make it through the colder months.

Why Temperature Matters for Water-Based Sealers

Unlike solvent-based alternatives, our water-based sealers are designed to be low-impact on the environment while still providing the protection and durability your projects need. However, because these sealers are water-based, they can be vulnerable to freezing. When the temperature drops below 32°F, the water content in the sealer can freeze, potentially altering its consistency and making it less effective when applied.

Quick Tips for Safe Winter Storage

1. Choose a Stable, Above-Freezing Location: Keep your Deco sealers stored in a space where the temperature stays above 32°F. A heated storage area, a climate-controlled shed, or a basement are good options.
2. Inspect Storage Areas Regularly: Winter conditions can fluctuate. Keep an eye on your storage environment and verify that your sealers are safely away from any drafts or cold spots that could impact the product’s integrity.
3. Protect Your Investment for Spring: Properly stored sealers not only stay usable longer but also retain their eco-friendly effectiveness, ensuring your projects start off strong in the new season.

Why Deco Products are a Win for the Environment

At Deco Products, we’re passionate about creating sealers that protect both surfaces and the environment. Based in Denver, CO, we proudly manufacture all our sealers in the USA. Our water-based formulas reduce harmful emissions, provide a safe application process, and meet high environmental standards. When you use Deco Products, you’re choosing a product that is as conscious of its impact on the environment as it is on quality.

Secure Your Sealers This Season

Taking a few minutes to protect your water-based Deco sealers from freezing temperatures is key to keeping them in peak condition. We appreciate your commitment to sustainable solutions and quality results, and we’re here to support you all winter long!

P.S. Don’t let Jack Frost ruin your supplies! Check your storage now, and keep your products snug and warm all winter long, give us a call at 800-500-DECO (3326) if you have any questions about our products or storage. Your future jobs (and happy customers) will thank you!

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Don’t Let Winter Destroy Your Concrete – Seal It Now!

As the colder months approach, it’s crucial to protect your concrete from the damaging effects of winter weather. If you live in regions that experience freezing temperatures, snow, or ice, your concrete is at risk of deterioration due to moisture infiltration, cracking, and spalling. Fortunately, Deco Products has the solution you need.

For over 30 years, Deco Products—a green company based in Denver, CO—has been producing environmentally friendly sealers to protect concrete surfaces. We were “green before it was cool,” and we remain dedicated to sustainability while offering top-tier protection for your surfaces. Here’s why now is the best time to seal your concrete and which products can help you safeguard it from the harsh winter ahead.

Why Seal Your Concrete Before Winter?

Concrete is porous, which means it can absorb water. As temperatures drop below freezing, this trapped water expands as it freezes, causing cracks and damage over time. This process, known as spalling, can lead to your concrete surface breaking apart, leaving unsightly “potato chip” flakes and holes.

In snowy areas, the problem often begins with rain or drizzle before the temperature drops and the snow hits. The water seeps into your concrete and then freezes when the temperature plunges. Over time, this freeze-thaw cycle leads to serious damage, erosion, and even crumbling.

Deco Products has developed a range of concrete sealers that help prevent this cycle by blocking moisture from entering your concrete in the first place. Here’s how our products can protect your home this winter:

Our Top Concrete Protection Products

1. Deco 20 Clear Finish This sealer penetrates deep into the concrete, creating a protective barrier that shields it from moisture intrusion. It is especially effective in preventing spalling, cracking, and erosion, giving you long-term protection through the winter months. For those who prefer a clear, natural-looking finish, Deco 20 Clear provides a smooth, durable layer that protects concrete surfaces from harsh winter conditions without altering their appearance.
2. Salt Shield 303 If you live in an area where road salt or de-icers are commonly used, Salt Shield 303 offers an extra level of protection. It prevents salt from penetrating the surface and causing further damage, ensuring your concrete remains strong and intact even after exposure to these corrosive materials.

Protecting More Than Just Your Driveway

In addition to driveways and sidewalks, don’t forget to seal other vulnerable surfaces like basements, chimneys, brick homes, and outdoor concrete structures. Our sealers are perfect for protecting and preventing water from penetrating your concrete and causing internal damage.

Act Now—Before It’s Too Late

Taking action now to seal your concrete will save you time, money, and hassle in the future. Get in touch with Deco Products Inc or your local sales rep to discuss which of our products best fits your needs. Whether it’s for your driveway, chimney, or outdoor structures, Deco Products has the solution to keep your concrete safe this winter.

Winter is coming, but with the right protection, your concrete doesn’t have to suffer the consequences. For More Information call us today at 800-500-3326 (DECO).

The Benefits of Penetrating Sealers: Easy Maintenance and Long-Lasting Results

If you’re in the business of sealing pavers or thinking about adding it to your service list, you’re likely looking for a solution that’s not only effective but also easy to maintain over time. That’s where penetrating sealers come in. These sealers offer numerous benefits that make them the ideal choice for anyone looking to deliver high-quality results while minimizing the effort required for ongoing maintenance. Let’s dive into why penetrating sealers are a game-changer and how proper training and support can help you maximize their benefits.

Why Penetrating Sealers Are Easier to Maintain

1. Easy to Reapply: One of the standout advantages of penetrating sealers is how easy they are to reapply. Traditional film-forming sealers often require you to strip off the old sealer before applying a new coat, which can be a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. However, with penetrating sealers, there’s no need to go through that hassle. Since they work by soaking into the pavers rather than sitting on top, you can simply reapply the sealer without removing the old layer. This not only saves time but also reduces the cost of labor, making your services more profitable.
2. No Yellowing or Flaking: A common issue with some sealers is that they can turn yellow or start to flake off after being exposed to the elements for a few years. This doesn’t just look bad—it can also lead to dissatisfied customers who may not return for future services. Penetrating sealers, however, are different. Because they absorb into the material, they don’t form a surface layer that can yellow or flake over time. This means your customers’ pavers will continue to look great year after year, enhancing your reputation as a reliable and skilled service provider.
3. Long-Lasting Protection: When you’re sealing pavers, you want a product that provides lasting protection against the elements. Penetrating sealers excel in this area because they go deep into the pavers, protecting them from the inside out. This deep-seated protection means that the pavers are shielded from water, oil, and other contaminants that can cause damage or stains. As a result, the pavers remain in excellent condition for longer, reducing the need for frequent re-sealing and making maintenance much easier for both you and your customers.

The Importance of Proper Training and Manufacturer Support

Knowing how to properly apply and maintain penetrating sealers is crucial for achieving the best results. While these products are easier to work with in many ways, they still require the right techniques and knowledge to ensure optimal performance. That’s why it’s so important to have access to good training and reliable manufacturer support.

When you’re trained on how to correctly use penetrating sealers, you can avoid common mistakes that could lead to issues down the road. For example, knowing the right amount of sealer to apply and understanding the specific needs of different types of pavers can make a big difference in the quality of your work. Additionally, if you ever run into a problem, having a manufacturer that offers solid support can be a lifesaver. You don’t want to be left guessing or trying to troubleshoot on your own when a simple call or email to the manufacturer could solve the issue.

Deco Products stands out as a manufacturer that goes the extra mile for its customers. They offer free training and ongoing support to ensure that you have all the knowledge and resources you need to succeed. Whether you’re new to sealing or have years of experience, Deco Products’ training can help you refine your skills, and their support team is always available to assist with any questions or concerns.

Boost Your Business with Penetrating Sealers

By choosing penetrating sealers, you’re not only opting for a product that’s easier to maintain but also one that can help you build a stronger, more profitable business. The long-lasting protection they offer means fewer callbacks and more satisfied customers, which can lead to more referrals and repeat business. Plus, the time and labor savings from not having to strip old sealers or deal with yellowing and flaking issues can boost your bottom line.

Adding paver sealing to your list of services, or switching to penetrating sealers if you haven’t already, is a smart move for any applicator or pressure washing service company. And with a trusted manufacturer like Deco Products providing free training and support, you can confidently offer high-quality services that stand the test of time.

In the end, penetrating sealers aren’t just a product—they’re an investment in the future of your business. With easier maintenance, long-lasting results, and strong manufacturer backing, they’re the clear choice for any professional looking to provide top-notch services to their clients. Want to learn more about our FREE Training programs? Give us a call today at 800-500-DECO (3326).