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.

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).

How to Waterproof Foundation Walls: Step-by-Step Guide

A durable foundation is the cornerstone of any home, providing the support and level that the rest of your home relies on. However, most foundations share one ever-present weakness: Moisture. From fieldstone to poured concrete, foundations that absorb water through moist soil can crack, shift, and crumble from under your home. If you have a basement, moisture against the foundation can lead to damp walls and leaks.

Common problems include leaking, water damage, structural damage, and mold. Fortunately, there is also one simple solution to keep your foundation safe from excess moisture and the damage it can bring. Deco 20 Seal is a reliable and effective solution for waterproofing foundation walls.

Why Waterproofing House Foundation Is Important

As water accumulates around a foundation, it exerts tremendous hydrostatic pressure. Over extended periods, a combination of fluid mechanics degrades the foundation. Preventing serious long-term damage thus requires foundation wall waterproofing to prevent water from gradually compromising structural integrity.

Without waterproofing, minor foundational defects become serious cracks, causing leaks and shifting a structure’s load. This leads to further issues, weakening the foundation’s load-bearing capacities. Foundation waterproofing prevents these problems from developing or, when present, limits their progression.

Step-by-Step Guide to Waterproofing Foundation Walls with Deco 20 Seal

Waterproofing a foundation starts on the outside. The best way to prevent structural damage and internal leaks is to keep water from reaching the outer edge of your foundation. We can walk you through a step-by-step process to waterproof your foundation using Deco 20 Seal.

Prepare the Foundation

• Inspect: Thoroughly inspect your foundation to identify the source of any leaks or areas that have already suffered significant damage.
• Excavate: Excavate your foundation to reveal the full exterior wall. You want to clear out the dirt to the footing so you can waterproof the entire perimeter of your foundation.
• Clean: With the foundation exposed, give the stone a good scrubbing. Remove dirt, debris, and any existing barrier materials so the waterproof seal can adhere cleanly.

Deco 20 Seal Application

• Surface Preparation: Prepare your cleaned foundation surface by repairing any damage to create a smooth surface. For masonry foundations, repoint the mortar and fill in gaps that may have formed. Patch cracks and fill any chips or voids for solid concrete foundations to create a smooth surface. Wait for the repairs to dry and clean your foundation again.
• Application: Apply Deco 20 Seal with paint brushes or rollers, but the best application comes from an airless paint sprayer with a rate of 1.5 to 2 gallons per minute using a .531 or .631 spray tip and $30 mesh filters in the pump. Keep pressure between 1K and 2K PSI. Apply an even coat around the foundation, from the top to the base of the footer. If using brushes and rollers, apply two coats or one coat if you can achieve a 30-mil wet application on the first coat.
• Curing: The curing and drying processes are the same. Allow a full day for the cure before the process is considered complete.

Drainage and Grading

• Foundation waterproofing works best with other strategies to keep water from building up near your foundation. This is where drainage and grading come into play. Proper drainage and grading around the foundation prevent water from accumulating against the walls so that it disperses into the soil instead.
• Install a french drain in the trench around your foundation before filling in the dirt so that water is carried away if it tries to accumulate in this space.
• You can also regrade the soil to encourage water flow away from the house.

Landscaping

• Landscaping can help protect your foundation from water damage by directing runoff away from the walls. Explore landscaping features like rain gardens, permeable pavers, and ground cover plants that will enjoy the moisture in the soil before it reaches your foundation.

Benefits of Using Deco 20 Seal

Why choose Deco 20 Seal for your foundation sealer? Exterior waterproofing is an important task, and you naturally want the best waterproof foundation solution to keep your home safe. Deco 20 Seal offers durability, flexibility, easy application, and a cost-effective solution for your entire foundation.

• Durability: Enjoy long-lasting protection with proven resistance to weathering and erosion.
• Flexibility: Deco 20 Seal can help to bridge cracks and is flexible enough to accommodate minor foundation movements based on the nature of your local soil. This provides continued protection where other solutions might crack.
• Ease of Application: Deco 20 Seal is easy and versatile, suitable for both DIY homeowners and professionals.
• Cost-Effective: Deco 20 Seal offers long-term cost savings as you prevent costly future repairs to the foundation.
• Superior Waterproofing: DECO 20 Seal achieves superior waterproofing and sealing for concrete (and brick) surfaces. An innovative, non-toxic, water/silicon-based formula penetrates the surface and creates an impenetrable membrane.
• Foundation Protection: Prevents foundation decay and leaks due to nonstructural cracks. Offers long-term protection from water damage, UV rays, mold, and water vapor.
• Efficiency and Affordability: Easy and fast application, potentially requiring a single coat. It is a more affordable and effective solution than the alternatives.
• Safety and Compliance: Non-toxic formula approved by the International Code Council. Tested to meet or exceed numerous ASTM and other technical standards.
• Seamless Protection: A continuous, seam-free coating along the entire foundation surface.

Expert Waterproofing Solutions for Your Home

Ready to waterproof your home’s foundation? Deco 20 Seal protects your foundation from moisture and water damage. Contact us for a free consultation or estimate on your foundation and the best waterproofing solutions.

Additionally, here are some more details from the original text that you can incorporate:

• DECO 20 Seal’s effectiveness: “DECO 20 Seal achieves superior waterproofing and sealing for concrete (and brick) surfaces. An innovative, non-toxic, water/silicon-based formula penetrates the surface and creates an impenetrable membrane.”
• DECO 20 Seal’s benefits: “Prevents foundation decay and leaks due to nonstructural cracks. Long-term protection from water damage, UV rays, mold, and water vapor. Easy and fast application, potentially requiring a single coat. It is a more affordable and effective solution than the alternatives. Non-toxic formula approved by the International Code Council. Tested to meet or exceed numerous ASTM and other technical standards. A continuous, seam-free coating along the entire foundation surface.”
• Deco Products’ commitment: “Deco Products is continually innovating commercial-grade sealing solutions that are at once: More affordable. More effective. Easier to apply.”

 

How to Seal Brick: Best Practices for Waterproofing & Maintenance

Builders and general contractors across the USA depend on an effective means of sealing and waterproofing various brick materials to prevent small cracks or growths from spiraling out of control and requiring costly remasonry work. As a trusted pioneer in long-lasting and eco-friendly hard-surface treatments, Deco Products is proud to present our DECO 20 Clear brick sealer.

Designed to penetrate deep into the pores of bricks and concrete surfaces, DECO 20 Clear provides years of protection from the elements and overall wear and tear. It’s also quick and easy to apply, and here, we’ll show you how.

Understanding Brick Sealing and Waterproofing

Brick’s longevity is somewhat offset by its high repair costs, which can also be highly involved. For load-bearing brick structures, especially, repairs can be even more costly and difficult. That’s why it’s imperative to select the best brick waterproofing sealer on the market to maintain effective seals and prevent damage from even establishing.

Introducing DECO 20 Clear for Sealing Brick

DECO 20 Clear offers numerous benefits over alternative sealing methods. That’s because the DECO 20 Clear formula carries several important advantages:

• Dries 100% clear in only 2–4 hours
• Non-yellowing, even under constant UV exposure
• Extends the life of brick structures and pavers
• Non-hazardous, odor-free formula
• Prevents and potentially eliminates mold and mildew
• Requires only a single coat

It’s also possible to paint or apply other coatings over DECO 20, and it’s suitable for interior or exterior use.

DECO 20’s primary function is concrete and brick waterproofing, achieved through an innovative siliconate and 100% water-based formulation. The seal also provides robust protection from weather, stains, and mild abrasions while preserving the brick’s color.

How to Seal and Waterproof Brick With DECO 20 Clear

A single 5-gallon container of DECO 20 Clear is suitable for a surface area of 1,500 sq ft. The process requires a sprayer and will go much faster with a high-capacity electric tank sprayer, though even a simple garden sprayer will do. Depending on the surface area, a single worker or small crew can seal an entire brick structure in a single morning or afternoon.

Choose a day with only moderate sun and low wind. Mornings are preferable because you don’t want ambient conditions altering or “flash heating” DECO 20 Clear when freshly applied. Application of DECO 20 Clear requires only a simple three-step process:

Step 1: Prepare the brick surface for sealing by removing debris and cleaning it. Pay attention to any damaged portions, and cover windows and any adjacent materials you don’t want covered in sealant. If it’s hot, spray a light mist of water on the brick to cool it down and prevent setting issues.

Step 2: Evenly apply DECO 20 Clear using a constant motion from a consistent, moderate distance until the area is saturated. It’s best to avoid pausing while applying DECO 20 to a given area until it’s fully covered.

Step 3: The curing and drying process is now just a matter of time. Be sure you mark the area so others don’t touch the surface. For optimum results, heed the precautions mentioned above about weather and timing.

If you’re wondering how to seal brick pavers, the process is identical to that for vertical surfaces. As always, Deco products should be applied by a skilled, trained applicator, and you can establish your company as a Deco Products Certified Applicator at one of our nationwide training events.

Trust Deco Products for The Best Waterproofing Sealers

DECO 20 Clear is the ideal solution for sealing brick structures and pavers, and it’s also very effective for concrete. We also produce a wide range of decorative sealers for other surface types, as well as custom waterproofing solutions for entire structures.

For over three decades, Deco Products has been a leader in safer, more effective sealing and waterproofing formulas for a variety of materials. Contact us using our online form or call 1-800-500-DECO (3326) with any questions or to purchase DECO 20 Clear today.

Best Waterproofing Techniques for New Construction

The care taken from the beginning of any new construction project tremendously impacts the long-term efficacy of a foundation waterproofing method. New construction contractors generally know this, but the question is: which single foundation sealing product or method has proven the most effective?

Deco Products is a national leader in effective, eco-friendly waterproofing sealers for professional applicators. We’ve designed our seal-coating products for maximum longevity, function, and ease, simplifying and improving that all-important step in securing a foundation and the local environment, even long after construction is complete.

So, what are the best waterproofing techniques for new foundations? Read on to learn how to achieve greater effectiveness and workflow during foundation construction.

What to Look for in a Foundation Construction Waterproofing Solution

One of the most important functions of new foundation waterproofing is resisting hydrostatic pressure. Over time, you can be certain the water table will work its way into any defect of a foundation’s seal. Like many aspects of new construction, this is one area where anything less than 100% is not good enough.

Inferior sealing solutions can even be counterproductive, trapping moisture in and exacerbating foundation problems (and occupants won’t know it until it’s too late). As temperatures and humidity levels fluctuate, so too does moisture that’s permeated into any membrane/sealcoating pore or hairline crack. From there, even the smallest amount of moisture can eventually work its way to serious foundation failure in the future.

The best construction contractors know their reputation is built over decades, not years. They must also maintain strict timetables while protecting workers and future occupants. What’s necessary is a foundation construction waterproofing technique that’s all of:

• Effective over the long term
• Eco-friendly
• Fully tested and code-compliant
• Suitable for a wide range of materials and conditions

DECO 20 Seal for Waterproofing New Construction

Using an advanced, non-toxic hybrid acrylic resin formula, DECO 20 Seal penetrates deep into the pores of a foundation’s surface, leaving behind a thick membrane-like coating. It’s suitable for a wide range of foundation waterproofing applications and foundation types, including:

• Pre-cast and poured concrete
• ICF forms
• Parged masonry
• Non-parged masonry (with a preliminary coating of Deco Primer)

We’ve worked closely with numerous contractors over the years and understand the importance of a waterproofing solution that’s both effective and easy to apply.

Designed as simple spray coating, DECO 20 Seal actually functions more as a membrane. It adheres to a foundation in a single afternoon, leaving behind an impenetrable 18-mil barrier when dry. No poly, no seams, and minimal time and labor required.

DECO 20 Dampproof for Waterproofing New Construction

 

Being water-based, DECO 20 Dampproof is suitable for the same masonry, concrete, and ICF forms as DECO 20 Seal, but even under damp conditions. It’s the perfect alternative to bituminous products in high-humidity areas or where a single weather miscalculation could have serious ramifications for foundation waterproofing membrane’s long-term function.

Note: DECO 20 Dampproof requires an initial application of DECO 20 Clear Penetrating Concrete Sealer. This simple one-two combo is all it takes to achieve long-lasting foundation sealing and is far superior to traditional methods (such as tar or solid membrane sheets).

Best Foundation Waterproofing From Deco Products

The International Code Council approves DECO 20 Seal and DECO 20 Dampproof and has passed a suite of independent ASTM tests for UV and mold resistance, waterproofing, surface adhesion, and more. Deco Products also carries the only approved clear seal coating products for dampproof basement foundations, and we fully warrant our products for approved applicators.

If you’re looking for the perfect solution to new foundation construction sealing, contact Deco Products‘ knowledgeable waterproofing experts. We also provide technical assistance so you can be confident in your chosen foundation waterproofing solution.

How Sealed Pavers Reduce Urban Heat Island Effects

Understanding Urban Heat Islands:

First, let’s talk about something called “urban heat islands.” These happen when cities get much hotter than the countryside around them because of things people do, like driving cars, making stuff in factories, and building lots of roads and buildings. Pavements, like sidewalks and streets, can soak up and keep in heat, making urban heat islands even hotter.

Urban heat islands (UHIs) are a big worry as cities grow fast. These areas with extra-hot temperatures can cause problems for people’s health, how much energy we use, and nature. But there might be a simple fix right under us: sealed pavers. In this article, we look at the science that says sealed pavers don’t get as hot as regular ones. This helps cool down both the ground and the air around them.

The Role of Sealed Pavers:

How do sealed pavers help you ask? Sealed pavers are different from regular ones because they have a special protective layer added on top. This layer keeps things like water and oils from getting inside the paver. People usually seal pavers to make them stronger and look nicer, but studies show it can also help keep things cooler.

Scientific Evidence:

Many studies looked at how sealed and unsealed pavers hold heat and affect cities that get too hot. Here’s what they found:

1. Heat Retention: Scientists at Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory found that sealed pavers don’t keep as much heat as unsealed ones. The special coating on sealed pavers stops them from absorbing and holding onto as much heat from the sun, which keeps them cooler.
2. Surface Temperature: A study in the Journal of Environmental Management compared the temperatures of sealed and unsealed pavers in cities. They found that sealed pavers stay cooler than unsealed ones, especially when it’s sunny, which helps make cities cooler overall.
3. Air Temperature Reduction: Another study from Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory looked at how sealed and unsealed pavements affect the air temperature in cities. They discovered that areas with sealed pavers are a bit cooler than those with unsealed ones, especially in hot summer weather.
4. Implications and Benefits: Sealed pavers not only make the pavement cooler but also bring other good things for cities:

• They help cool down urban areas, making them more comfortable for people.
• Cooler pavements mean less need for air conditioning, which can save money.
• Using sealed pavers is good for the environment because it helps fight climate change and reduces the pollution caused by using too much energy.

Conclusion:

Sealed pavers are a smart way to make cities cooler and more comfortable to live in. Science shows they hold less heat than regular pavers, which helps keep both the ground and the air cooler. As cities deal with hotter temperatures, using solutions like sealed pavers can make a big difference in making cities better places to live. If you have any questions about our sealing and waterproofing products, feel free to contact us at 800-500-DECO for more details.