Canada
Français
Español
International
Co-authored by Christian Warren of W. R. MEADOWS. Crystalline cementitious coatings are advanced waterproofing materials designed to protect concrete structures by forming insoluble crystals within the concrete matrix. These crystals block the pathways through which water and other aggressive agents might travel, effectively sealing the concrete from within. Though several manufacturers produce these coatings, identifying when and how to use them properly requires a solid understanding of concrete behavior, application methods, and project requirements. The Science Behind Crystalline Technology Crystalline coatings are typically applied to concrete in slurry or dry-shake form. When moisture is present, proprietary chemicals in the coating…
Blog
Building a Greener Future Together: W. R. MEADOWS Releases First Round of Environmental Product Declarations
Why Construction Joint Sealants Are Critical to Building Envelope Performance
Construction joint sealants are often viewed as a finishing trade detail, something installed near the end of a project once the structural and envelope systems are in place. In reality, they are a critical component of building envelope performance and long-term structural durability. When properly specified and installed, joint sealants serve as a primary line of defense against water infiltration, air leakage, vapor migration, and even sound transmission. When overlooked or misapplied, they can become one of the most common sources of building failure. Every building moves. Concrete expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. Steel shifts under load. Wood responds…
Understanding Polyurea Technology in Control Joint Fillers
Concrete floor slabs serve as critical working surfaces in warehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, retail environments, and institutional facilities. These floors support constant traffic from forklifts, pallet jacks, carts, and other material-handling equipment. Because of this heavy use, maintaining the durability of the concrete slab, particularly at control joints, is essential for long-term floor performance. Control joints are intentionally placed in concrete slabs to manage shrinkage and direct cracking to predetermined locations. While these joints are necessary for proper slab performance, they also create potential points of weakness if left unprotected. Once a building becomes operational, repeated traffic across open…
Why HRA Remains the Gold Standard for Green Roof Waterproofing
And Why HRM 714 from W. R. MEADOWS is the Benchmark Solution Green roofs hold a unique position in today’s-built environment. They are more than an architectural feature; they are a technical solution to the growing performance demands placed on buildings. A properly designed vegetative roof can reduce stormwater runoff, lower energy loads, extend service life, and contribute meaningfully to urban sustainability. But all of these benefits rest on one component hidden beneath layers of specialized soil, drainage, and vegetation: the waterproofing membrane. If that element fails, remediation becomes disruptive and extremely costly. That’s why specifying a system with a…
Waterproofing in Restoration and New Construction: A Critical Component
Co-authored by Jonathan Johansmeyer of W. R. MEADOWS. Waterproofing plays a vital role in both restoration and new construction, serving a wide range of applications including planters, split slab assemblies, and below-grade structures. Moisture intrusion remains the leading cause of construction-related litigation, making waterproofing one of the most critical components in protecting the structural integrity of a building. Understanding Waterproofing Membranes Before diving into the technical aspects, it’s important to understand what a waterproofing membrane is designed to do. Whether fluid-applied or sheet-based, these membranes serve one primary function: to resist hydrostatic head pressure and prevent water ingress. Hydrostatic head pressure refers…
Choosing the Right Wastewater Tank Liner: Key Questions
Co-authored by Christian Warren of W. R. MEADOWS. Wastewater tanks are exposed to harsh chemicals, shifting pH levels, abrasion, and environmental stresses. A well-chosen liner helps prevent structural damage, leaks, and non-compliance issues. Key Considerations for Selecting the Right Wastewater Tank Liner What chemicals and concentrations are present? Analyze tank contents—e.g., acidic, alkaline, solvents, or biological waste—to identify liners (crystalline, epoxy, polyurethane, vinyl ester, etc.) with suitable chemical resistance. Testing under real operating conditions is crucial. What is the tank’s material and purpose? Concrete tanks often need flexible, crack-bridging systems (e.g., polyurethane), while steel tanks typically require anti-corrosion coatings such as polyurea…
W. R. MEADOWS Training Program – Building Confidence Through Knowledge
At W. R. MEADOWS, we believe that knowledge is power – and that empowering our partners and end-users with expertise is one of the most valuable services we can offer. Beyond manufacturing top-tier quality products, our commitment to training, education, and collaboration ensures that architects, engineers, contractors, and distributors can confidently choose, specify, and install our solutions. Our educational programs are designed not only to build individual knowledge but also to strengthen the relationships that fuel success across the entire construction industry. Expanding Expertise with Our Learning Center To make training accessible to everyone, we’ve created a centralized online Learning…
The Multifaceted Benefits of Green Roofing for Educational Facilities
Green roofing, also called vegetated roofing, has gained momentum across North America as a strategy that delivers far more than aesthetic appeal. For schools, colleges, and universities, these systems can provide measurable environmental, financial, and social advantages. Beyond reducing energy consumption, they can transform the building itself into an asset that contributes to education, health, and community well-being. This article explores how vegetated roofing can positively impact educational facilities and campuses. LOWERING TEMPERATURES & IMPROVING ENERGY PERFORMANCE One of the most widely recognized benefits of green roofing is its ability to regulate temperature. Traditional dark roofing materials absorb significant heat,…
What Is Rubberized Asphalt — and Why It’s More Than Just a Road Material
When you hear the term rubberized asphalt, your mind might immediately go to road construction, and for good reason. This versatile material has been widely used in paving applications for decades. But in the construction industry, rubberized asphalt is also a powerful component in building envelopes, serving as a reliable line of defense against air and water infiltration. Whether it’s used in foundations, elevated decks, or wall assemblies, rubberized asphalt brings flexibility, durability, and performance to the jobsite. Let’s take a closer look at what rubberized asphalt is, how it’s made, & how both hot-applied and cold-applied forms are used…
Mastering Advanced Concrete Surface Preparation for Long-Term Success
Co-authored by Scott Wolff of W. R. MEADOWS. Concrete surface preparation is more than a necessary first step; it’s the foundation for a project’s success. Advanced preparation techniques go beyond basic cleaning and etching, ensuring coatings, overlays, and sealants adhere properly and perform as intended. This article explores advanced methods and considerations for concrete surface preparation, offering contractors the insights needed to achieve superior results. THE IMPORTANCE OF SURFACE PROFILES Concrete surface profile (CSP) plays a crucial role in determining the success of an application. The International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) defines nine CSP levels, each corresponding to a specific texture and…
Understanding Portland Limestone Cement (PLC): Performance, Benefits, and Specification Guide
What is Portland Limestone Cement? Portland limestone cement (PLC), also known as Type IL cement, is a binary blended hydraulic cement that contains between 5 and 15 percent of blended or interground limestone. It is manufactured to meet the requirements of ASTM C595/595M or AASHTO M 240 for Type IL. At a 1:1 replacement ratio, PLC is designed to be a 28-day performance equivalent to ordinary portland cement (OPC) that complies with ASTM C150/C150M and AASHTO M 85. OPC contains up to 5 percent limestone. The additional limestone in PLC reduces the amount of energy-intensive clinker required, resulting in lower…
Getting It Right: Understanding & Measuring Wet Mil Thickness
Co-authored by Donnie Kruger of W. R. MEADOWS. In construction, precision matters; especially when working with liquid-applied membranes designed to protect a structure from air and moisture intrusion. Whether you’re applying an air barrier, vapor barrier, or waterproofing membrane, ensuring the correct film thickness is one of the most important steps in achieving long-term performance. Even the best membrane system can underperform if it’s applied too thin or too thick. That’s where the wet mil gauge, a small, comb-shaped tool, plays an essential role. It’s a simple, inexpensive device that provides immediate confirmation that a coating has been applied at…
Rethinking Concrete Protection: The Role of Cementitious and Crystalline Waterproofing
Co-authored by Christian Warren of W. R. MEADOWS. Concrete is one of the most relied-upon materials in construction, used across infrastructure, commercial buildings, and residential projects due to its strength, durability, and versatility. But despite these benefits, concrete is inherently porous, which means it’s vulnerable to water intrusion. Over time, even minor moisture exposure can lead to cracking, corrosion, and structural failure. As the most widely used man-made material on the planet, concrete demands a smarter approach to protection, one that goes beyond traditional surface treatments. That’s where crystalline and cementitious waterproofing systems come in. The Challenge of Concrete’s Porosity…
Dampproofing, Vaporproofing, or Waterproofing? Understanding the Right Solution for Your Project
When it comes to protecting concrete structures, not all moisture-related solutions are created equal. Depending on the site conditions, structural use, and exposure levels, it’s critical to select the right approach, whether that’s dampproofing, vaporproofing, or waterproofing. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve very different purposes. At W. R. MEADOWS, we help construction professionals navigate these distinctions to ensure every structure gets the moisture protection it truly needs. What’s the Difference? Dampproofing, waterproofing, and vaporproofing each address different forms of moisture migration. Dampproofing is typically used to resist moisture in the absence of hydrostatic pressure. It serves…
Polished Concrete Floors
History and Growth of Polished Concrete The process of polishing concrete was discovered in the early 1990’s by a crew in Tunisia whose purpose was to finish a concrete slab and accidentally polished it dry. As a result, the finish became highly desired by the building owner and quickly gained popularity around the world. Today, we see polished concrete in several interior applications, such as warehouses, car dealerships, box stores, etc. One of the initial challenges the industry faced was lack of quality control and standardized processes that were measurable to create the desired finish. In the past two decades, several professional…
How Do I Waterproof an Elevator Pit?
Quick Summary: Elevator pits can be waterproofed from the outside (best practice) or from the inside (repair method). Exterior waterproofing during pre-construction provides the most durable, long-term protection against hydrostatic pressure. Interior waterproofing requires identifying leaks, surface preparation, repairs, and application of compatible cementitious systems. We get a lot of questions about how you waterproof an elevator pit, so our Canada technical representative Gary Tench, the ‘elevator pit whisperer,’ thought it was time to write an article about best practices. Here’s what Gary had to say: There are two methods for waterproofing an elevator pit: from the outside, or from…
Build Knowledge Over Lunch: AIA-Credited Seminars from W. R. MEADOWS
Helping the AEC community grow—one learning unit at a time. At W. R. MEADOWS, we believe that building better structures starts with building better knowledge. That’s why we offer a robust selection of AIA-accredited Lunch-and-Learn seminars and online courses designed specifically for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) community. Whether you’re brushing up on building science or diving into the latest in waterproofing technology, our seminars provide valuable continuing education credits—while keeping your team informed and inspired. 🏛 What We Offer Our programs are accredited by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and are approved for Health, Safety, and Welfare…
Waterproofing a Retaining Wall
A Guide from W. R. MEADOWS, INC. Retaining walls are an important aspect of any construction project that involves a significant change in elevation. They are designed to hold back soil or other materials, preventing erosion and protecting the foundation of a building or structure. They are commonly used to create level areas for building, and are crucial in managing the flow of water and preventing damage. However, retaining walls are also susceptible to water intrusion, which can lead to cracking, deterioration, and ultimately, failure. To prevent water damage and ensure the longevity of your retaining wall, it’s crucial to…
Effective Waterproofing on Damp and Green Substrates
When dealing with concrete surfaces, one of the most persistent challenges is ensuring effective waterproofing, especially on damp or freshly poured (green) concrete. Many traditional waterproofing systems require a completely dry substrate, which can lead to delays and increased costs on the job site. However, cementitious waterproofing systems provide a solution that can be applied directly to damp and green concrete, ensuring both efficiency and durability. THE CHALLENGE OF DAMP AND GREEN CONCRETE Concrete surfaces often retain moisture for extended periods due to their curing process, and external conditions like rain or humidity can further prolong drying times. Traditional waterproofing…
Building Solutions Together: Supporting Roofing Distributors with KNIGHTSHIELD Silicone Systems
At W. R. MEADOWS, our commitment to the construction industry goes far beyond manufacturing high-performance products. We believe in building lasting partnerships by sharing knowledge, offering hands-on training, and empowering our clients to grow in every direction. One of the most powerful ways we’re doing this today is through our support of distributors entering – or expanding within—the silicone roof coatings market, particularly with our KNIGHTSHIELD line of liquid-applied roofing (LAR) systems. For roofing distributors, silicone coatings offer a compelling opportunity to increase both customer satisfaction and revenue. More than just a leak-stop or temporary solution, silicone provides long-term protection,…
Crystalline Waterproofing: The Science Behind It & Why It’s Important
Waterproofing is an essential aspect of construction that protects buildings from water damage and moisture-related issues. Concrete, which is a pivotal material in many structures, is porous and will absorb water, waterborne contaminants, and chemicals; all of which will call cause significant and expensive structural damage over time. Not to mention, can lead to mold growth and other health risks to those who work within said buildings/structures. There are multiple ways to waterproof, but Crystalline waterproofing has become a popular technique. Traditional waterproofing methods rely on a barrier system that prevents water from penetrating the surface. However, these systems can…
A Roof for the Long Run
Transforming the Trading Post Strip Mall Download Case Study (.pdf) A ROOF FOR THE LONG RUN: TRANSFORMING THE TRADING POST STRIP MALL In the vibrant city of Huntsville, Alabama, tucked among the bustling streets and thriving commerce, the Trading Post Strip Mall was wrestling with an increasingly urgent problem. Above the lively commerce and daily interactions of shoppers, the mall’s roof—a vast expanse of metal panels—was under siege by a failing acrylic coating. This protective layer, intended to shield the roof from the elements, had begun to erode, threatening the integrity of the metal beneath. BEFORE KNIGHTSHIELD APPLICATION Steven Jacks,…
What is Blindside Waterproofing?
You’ve heard of negative-side waterproofing. You’ve heard of positive-side waterproofing. So, what is “blindside” waterproofing? After reading this article, you can add ‘Blindside Waterproofing Authority’ to your LinkedIn profile in a New York minute. (Translation for our international readers: Really fast—like, Roadrunner fast.) The long short? Blindside waterproofing is a category of positive-side waterproofing. The difference? When you’re pouring a foundation in a dense urban area – think downtown Toronto, New York, London, or Rio de Janeiro – conventional waterproofing simply isn’t possible. In these environments, there’s no room to access the outside face of the foundation after it’s poured.…
Epoxy/Urethane vs. Cementitious
Navigating Waterproofing Solutions for Water Tanks & Water Treatment Plants Waterproofing water tanks and treatment plants is a nuanced art, akin to crafting a custom-tailored suit. To the untrained eye, it might just seem like a choice between materials. However, engineers and architects know that the devil is in the details and with new materials and techniques coming to the forefront, it’s essential for builders and customers alike to stay abreast of the most effective solutions, especially when it comes to waterproofing. Water tanks and treatment plants, owing to their functionality, need the utmost care in terms of waterproofing and/or…
Crawl Space Moisture: The Hidden Threat to Your Buildings (And How to Stop It)
Moisture is one of those unseen threats that can quietly wreak havoc on a building. Left unchecked, it leads to rotting wood, mold growth, electrical failures, and even serious structural damage. All it takes is one bad leak to cause thousands in repairs, and if moisture continues to creep in over time, it can slowly break down a building from the inside out. But here’s the thing—moisture doesn’t just come from the usual suspects like leaky roofs or heavy rainstorms. It can also creep in from below, seeping up from the ground and into a building’s crawl space. And because…
Navigating the Choices: A Comprehensive Guide to Waterproofing Options
Waterproofing is essential in construction, but since there are so many application types available, choosing the right method can become a complex decision. Factors, such as geographical location, hydrostatic pressure, and temperature limitations, play a significant role in determining the appropriate waterproofing system. In this guide, we dissect different methods to help you make a more informed decision. FOUNDATIONAL DEFINITIONS IN CONSTRUCTION In the vast world of construction, terminologies can often leave some of us puzzled. Two such terms are “above-grade” and “below-grade.” As the names suggest, “above-grade” refers to structures or portions of structures that are above the ground…
Fluid-Applied Waterproofing in Elevator Pits: A Comprehensive Guide Series
Elevator pits, though often overlooked, are critical components of any building’s infrastructure. These subterranean spaces house essential elevator machinery and are particularly susceptible to moisture intrusion. Without a proper waterproofing system in place, elevator pits can become breeding grounds for corrosion, mold growth, and equipment damage issues. When it comes to waterproofing elevator pits, fluid-applied systems are among the most effective solutions available. These systems not only ensure a watertight seal, but also adapt seamlessly to various substrates, making them ideal for the diverse materials found in elevator pits. Let’s explore the intricate world of fluid-applied waterproofing and understand why…
Sheet-Applied Waterproofing in Elevator Pits: A Comprehensive Guide Series
When it comes to constructing waterproof systems, the choice of material and application methodology can greatly influence the longevity and overall performance of the structure being worked on. This is even more important when tackling an elevator pit. Due to access, function, location, and the fact that elevator pits tend to be the lowest points in a building, they are especially susceptible to water intrusion and other costly scenarios that are hard to retroactively fix, not to mention the scheduling nightmare that can come from needing to make a repair. Therefore, it is critical to make sure you plan ahead…
Cementitious Waterproofing in Elevator Pits: A Comprehensive Guide Series
Elevator pits are integral components of modern buildings, often hidden yet crucial for the operation of elevator systems. However, being located below ground level, these pits are inherently prone to water ingress, leading to potential corrosion, structural damage, and operational hazards. They are also quite challenging to access for restoration. In this context, cementitious waterproofing becomes a vital solution. Cementitious waterproofing, with its robust and reliable nature, stands as an ideal solution for safeguarding these subterranean spaces. This method employs a blend of cement and waterproofing materials to form a hard, durable barrier against moisture penetration. The concrete construction of…
Why You Need a Pre-Applied Waterproofing Membrane on Your Vertical Application
When it comes to buildings, moisture is always the enemy—no exceptions. Managing moisture should be a top priority in every construction plan. In fact, most E&O insurance claims in the inspection industry trace back to one common issue: moisture intrusion. Moisture is one of the leading causes of building defects. And the consequences go beyond structural damage—health hazards like mold exposure result in billions of dollars in medical costs annually. While “black mold” is often blamed, there are actually many types of molds (some of them black) that produce dangerous mycotoxins. In fact, Dallas tops the list of U.S. cities…
BUILDING YOUR TEAM OF SAFETY LEADERS
When it comes to a safe working environment, the more participation you have at all levels of the organization, the better. Safety is a team sport. It is preferable to have each and every employee actively engaged in the safety program versus supervisors playing “gotcha” with employees when safety violations are observed. When the supervisor makes a correction and leaves, it is likely that corrected employees will revert to bad behaviors. So how do we build a team of safety leaders who are engaged? Employees need to take personal responsibility for their safety as well as the safety of their…
SAFE WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS
Last month’s article talked about cleaning up old materials and classifying them for disposal. Now that some free space has been opened at your facility up let’s talk about warehouse operations. Most points of distribution have some sort of warehouse affiliated with the operation. There are several key areas that need to be evaluated in order to operate a warehouse safely. First and foremost, materials movement is a key activity in a warehouse. Moving materials, unloading trucks, loading trucks, and placing materials into storage occur constantly in a warehouse. Forklift operators are typically completing all these touches in the warehouse.…
Harnessing Global Insights for Enhanced Sustainability
A Journey through Greenbuild 2023 W. R. MEADOWS is not just a brand; we are a community of professionals passionately committed to innovation, quality, and sustainability. Today, we shine the spotlight on Kimberly Lombardozzi, our dedicated Sustainability Manager, who recently attended the Greenbuild International Conference + Expo 2023, a global confluence of green building professionals. Here’s a glimpse into how this enriching experience is set to augment our sustainability initiatives. For more information, please visit: https://informaconnect.com/greenbuild/ TRUE Standard Session The event kicked off with Kimberly immersing herself in an educational session centered around the TRUE Standard. This session was a…
Partnering with YouthBuild to Construct a Better Future
W. R. MEADOWS has partnered with YouthBuild, a non-profit organization that helps young people from low-income backgrounds obtain job training and education to provide valuable opportunities to at-risk youths. This partnership is aimed at providing the necessary skills to help these young people succeed in the construction industry, while also empowering them to take control of their lives and build a brighter future. The partnership between W. R. MEADOWS and YouthBuild is part of a wider effort to address the growing skills gap in the construction industry. According to a recent study, the construction industry is facing a shortage of…
Elevating Sustainability: Biobased Content Verified Products at W. R. MEADOWS & BLUE RIDGE FIBERBOARD
In a world increasingly attuned to the ecological footprint of our industries, W. R. MEADOWS, INC., and our esteemed subsidiary, BLUE RIDGE FIBERBOARD, INC., are proud to announce several of our products now boast third-party verified biobased content, complying with the stringent criteria set by the USDA’s BioPreferred® Program. The Heart of Biobased Innovation: The USDA BioPreferred Program The BioPreferred Program, initiated by the USDA under the 2002 Farm Bill and rejuvenated with the 2018 Farm Bill, is more than a policy—it’s a movement towards a greener, more sustainable future. This program is designed to increase the purchase and use…
How to Choose the Right Concrete Pool Deck Sealer
If you’re like most homeowners with in-ground pools, you’re flummoxed by the endless flow of information for decorative concrete maintenance and concrete pool deck concrete sealants. Even your concrete—if it could talk—would admit it’s a lot to absorb. (FYI, if you’re ever doing an online search, concrete pool construction products are also called “construction liquids.”) Please note, this article refers only to concrete pool decks for inground pools, and not the wooden decks that tend to surround above-ground pools. Fortunately, DECK-O-SEAL’s Division Manager Jim Dill is not one to mince words (DECK-O-SEAL is a subsidiary of W. R. MEADOWS). Jim…
How to Waterproof A Below-Grade Concrete Block Foundation: 7 Steps to Know Now
Concrete blocks have been used for many years as the alternative to a poured concrete foundation wall. Since concrete blocks are porous and concrete block foundations have numerous joints, they can be prone to water leaks. This is why waterproofing this substrate is so critical for the long-term performance of a concrete block foundation. On the positive side, they are strong, and have some thermal and sound insulation properties, which reduces energy usage. They are fire-resistant, and the addition of rebar adds structural strength to the foundation. Concrete block foundations are well suited to seismic areas, e.g., areas that are…
Not All Mil Thicknesses Are Created Equal: Understanding Underslab Vapor Barriers
In the construction industry, underslab vapor barriers play a pivotal role in protecting buildings from moisture intrusion, soil gases, and other external elements that can compromise the integrity of the structure. With a plethora of product choices, it can feel daunting to know which product will best fit your project. The mil thickness of a vapor barrier is often considered one of the primary indicators of its performance and durability. However, not all mil thicknesses are created equal, especially when comparing different product’s engineering, such as if polar or non-polar molecules were used, like EVOH (Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol) resin or…
Silicone Roof Coatings
Silicone Roofing vs. Roof Replacement: The Smart-Choice Explained Building owners are often faced with a critical question: should they opt for a complete roof replacement, or consider a more cost-effective, less disruptive, and sustainable alternative, such as liquid-applied roof coatings? But how do you know what is the best option for you? This guide will provide valuable insights into why liquid-applied roof coating might be a more cost-effective and sustainable option compared to traditional roof replacement, as well as discuss all the liquid-applied options and how to find out if liquid-applied will work for you. UNDERSTANDING THE KEY DIFFERENCES Roof…