Build Better Basements: Waterproofing Solutions Contractors Can Trust

As a contractor, you know homeowners expect more than just a house—they expect a
safe, dry, and lasting home. The basement is at the heart of that promise, yet too often it’s left vulnerable when outdated waterproofing products are used.
At Deco Products, we’ve developed a line of waterproofing and dampproofing materials designed specifically for contractors who want to deliver quality that goes beyond code compliance.

Exceeding Code, Simplifying Application

Traditional asphalt-based coatings are oil-industry by-products. They meet minimum requirements, but they weren’t designed for today’s high-performance homes.
Our products, however, were created by chemists who engineered them to not only
meet ASTM standards but to surpass them. This means you can spray confidently
from footer to sill plate, knowing the entire foundation is protected—without the hassle of measuring and second-guessing grade lines.

Time-Saving Protection, Built for Durability

Every minute counts on the jobsite. Our system is designed to simplify your work while giving homeowners lasting protection. With UV inhibitors built in, the coating stands strong even where the foundation is exposed above grade. That’s fewer callbacks and more satisfied homeowners—both of which protect your reputation.

A Finish That Adds Value

A foundation shouldn’t detract from the look of a new home. Our gray and tan finishes offer an attractive appearance, and if the homeowner wants a custom look, the coating is fully paintable. Many contractors even extend the exterior paint down to the foundation, creating a seamless, polished finish that enhances curb appeal.

The Contractor’s Choice

When you choose Deco Products, you’re not just protecting a basement—you’re
protecting your craftsmanship, your timeline, and your client’s peace of mind.
Don’t settle for outdated asphalt coatings. Give your homeowners the protection they deserve and give yourself the confidence of American made products that you can count on. Ready to Build Better? Give us a call today at 800-500-DECO (3326)

From Tar to Tech: Upgrading Old Foundation Coatings

Many contractors, builders, and renovation specialists work on older buildings and are often asked to fix water problems in basements or foundations. Many older homes today are seeing more and more issues with leaking basements. This is typically due to old asphalt- or tar-based materials beginning to fail. Over time, these coatings will crack, peel, or just wear away. Asphalt- and tar-based materials are also carbon-based, which is a known food source for mold. Because of this, contractors and renovation specialists have been trying to find cost-effective and safe alternatives to fix these problems.

Eco-friendly coatings from Deco Products make this job easier. They are designed to stick to old surfaces, seal out water for many years, and are safer for the environment than tar. Using these coatings lets contractors solve water problems efficiently, keep buildings safe and dry, and meet today’s environmental and building standards—all while protecting their clients’ investment.

Why Tar Coatings Fail

Tar was widely used in the past because it was affordable and easy to apply. However, it doesn’t last forever. Over time, tar can crack, peel, or wear away, especially if it wasn’t applied properly. Some builders even backfilled with tar coatings that didn’t reach the ground level, leaving parts of the foundation unprotected. This can allow water to seep in, causing damage to the structure.

How to Fix It

Step 1: Remove Old Tar

The first step is to get rid of the old tar. You can do this by scraping it off, hydro blasting, sandblasting, or using a power washer to clean the surface. Be sure to remove as much as possible to ensure a good bond with the new coating.

Step 2: Apply a Primer

If any tar residue remains, apply a primer like Deco Tac. This helps the new coating stick better and ensures a strong seal.

Step 3: Apply a Modern Waterproofing Coating

After the primer has dried, apply a modern waterproofing coating such as Deco 20 Seal. These products are designed to provide long-lasting protection against water and are more effective than old tar coatings.

Benefits of Upgrading

• Better Protection: Modern coatings offer superior waterproofing compared to tar.
• Eco-Friendly: Newer products are designed to be more environmentally friendly.
• Long-Lasting: With proper application, these coatings can last for many years, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
• Improved Property Value: A well-maintained foundation can increase the value of your property.

Conclusion

Upgrading from old tar coatings to Deco Products waterproofing solutions is a smart move for anyone rehabbing an older building. By following these steps and using quality products, you can protect your foundation from water damage and ensure the longevity of your structure.

If you’re interested in learning more about these products or need assistance with your project, visit https://www.decoproducts.com/contact-us/ for more information.

The Pros of Using a Water-Based Paver Sealer for Your Business

When it comes to preserving the beauty and longevity of pavers, sealing is a step you can’t afford to skip. But with so many options available, homeowners and businesses often find themselves asking: What’s the difference between a water based vs solvent based sealer – and which one is right for the job?

Each type has its own benefits, drawbacks, and ideal use cases—so making the right choice isn’t just about preference; it’s about performance. As expert manufacturers of decorative paver sealers, the team at Deco Products has put together this blog post to explore the pros and cons of water-based and solvent-based sealers. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between water-based and solvent-based paver sealers to help you select the best option for your project, climate, and desired finish.

The Difference Between Water-Based and Solvent-Based Paver Sealer

Water-based and solvent-based paver sealer types share some similarities, like their ability to protect pavers from stains and UV rays to varying degrees. However, when answering questions like how long does paver sealer last or how it will affect the stone’s appearance, your answer will vary depending on the type of paver sealer you choose.

Let’s go over some of the differences between water-based vs solvent-based sealers to help you understand your options.

Water-Based Paver Sealer

A water-based sealer has low levels of volatile organic compounds or VOCs which makes the odor less pungent and makes it safer to use. They are also better for the environment and require less intensive clean-up.

This sealer type will also have a less prominent effect on the stone’s appearance. If you want something that protects the pavers without significantly changing the color, you might want to choose a water based vs solvent based sealer, which can contribute to significant darkening of the paver color. However, if you are looking for that darker “wet-look” Deco Products offers a water-based paver sealer that can provide a wet-look similar to solvent-based without the toxicity and required ventilation for safety.

Solvent-Based Paver Sealer

Solvent-based sealer has higher levels of VOCs, are not as environmentally friendly as their alternative, have a much stronger odor, and a more involved clean-up process. When using this type of sealer, it’s vital to ensure proper ventilation as the fumes can be hazardous to your health otherwise.

Solvent-based sealers are sometimes considered to offer greater protection against stains, but a high-quality water-based paver sealer can be capable of matching this benefit. If you’re looking for an option that can provide the best protection against oil stains, you might want to pick a sealer that’s solvent-based, vs water-based sealers, which don’t provide quite as much stain protection for things like grease and oil. The reason behind this is that most water based sealers are breathable, this allows water vapors to escape (avoiding efflorescence), but oil molecules are smaller than water molecules so they can penetrate the same breathable coating.

Having said that, Deco Products offers water-based paver sealers with superior protection that can slow the process of grease and oil penetration while maintaining a beautiful finish.

Standard of Paver Sealers

At Deco Products, we know the industry standards and building codes backward and forward. We never aim to simply meet these standards. Instead, we always strive to exceed them by as much as possible. Whether you’re working with a water based vs solvent based sealer, we strive to exceed expectations by delivering superior protection and performance through every product we offer.

We care about the result that our products produce long after a sale is made. That’s why we provide free training to our applicators to ensure proper application and superior results.

Discover Quality Paver Sealers at Deco Products

Choosing the right sealer is essential to ensure you’re getting the right amount of protection and the most benefits. If you want the very best paver sealer possible, Deco Products is the obvious choice. Take a look at our high-quality product options to learn more about the sealers we offer.

Ready to learn more about how you can use Deco Products to deliver great results and impact your bottom line? Contact your Local Representative today.

The Story Behind Deco Products: A Legacy of Decorative Sealers and Waterproofing Coatings

For over three decades, Deco Products has been a trusted name in the decorative sealers and Waterproofing Coatings Industry. But have you ever wondered where our name comes from? Deco stands for DE from Denver and CO from Colorado, the city and state where we’ve been proudly based since 1991. Our journey is one of dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to high-quality, American-made products that stand the test of time.

A Legacy Rooted in Denver, Colorado

Deco Products was founded with a vision: to create the best Decorative Sealers and Waterproofing Coatings in the industry while keeping manufacturing right here in the U.S. Denver, Colorado, with its unique climate and diverse weather conditions, became the perfect home for our company. The extreme temperature changes, from scorching summers to freezing winters, allowed us to test and refine our products to ensure they provide unmatched durability in any environment.

Being based in Denver is more than just geography for us—it’s part of our identity. The hardworking spirit of Colorado has influenced our business philosophy from the start. We believe in doing things the right way, not the easy way, and that has shaped every aspect of our operations. From research and development to customer support, our goal is to provide superior products and exceptional service to our customers across the country.

Proudly American-Made Since 1991

When we say we’re committed to quality, we mean it. Every Deco product is proudly made in the U.S.A. Our factory in Denver is where innovation meets craftsmanship, ensuring that every batch of our Decorative Sealers and Waterproofing Coatings meets our strict quality standards.

Keeping our manufacturing in America is a decision we stand behind for several reasons:

• Quality Control – By manufacturing our products in-house, we maintain full control over quality, ensuring consistency and performance.
• Supporting the Local Economy – We’re proud to provide jobs and support the local workforce in Denver.
• Sustainable Practices – Our environmentally friendly production methods align with our commitment to creating eco-conscious solutions.

Innovation in Decorative Sealers and Waterproofing Coatings

Over the years, Deco Products has developed a reputation for excellence in the industry. Our Decorative Sealers are designed to enhance and protect surfaces, providing long-lasting beauty and durability. Meanwhile, our Waterproofing Coatings help protect concrete, pavers, and other surfaces from water damage, ensuring longevity and structural integrity.

What sets Deco apart is our dedication to research and development. We continuously improve our formulas to adapt to evolving industry needs and environmental regulations. Whether it’s a penetrating sealer for a driveway, a high-performance coating for a commercial project, or a green solution for eco-conscious consumers, we strive to stay ahead of the curve.

Customer Commitment and Industry Expertise

At Deco Products, we don’t just sell sealers—we build lasting relationships. Our team is passionate about educating our customers, from contractors and applicators to homeowners looking to protect their investments. We offer free training, detailed product guides, and expert support to ensure the best results every time.

Deco Products isn’t just a brand; it’s a legacy built on trust, quality, and innovation. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to our roots in Denver, Colorado, and to producing the best American-made Decorative Sealers and Waterproofing Coatings in the industry.

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Whether you’re a long-time customer or new to Deco, we appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to serve you for years to come. We’re always a phone call away if you have questions about our products please reach out to us 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!