Page 171 - Construction Waterproofing Handbook

3.60 CHAPTER THREE
TABLE 3.22 Clear Deck Sealer Properties

Advantages Disadvantages
Cost Not completely waterproof
Ease of application No crack-bridging capability
Penetrating applications Not for wood or metal substrates

Deck sealers should be applied directly from the manufacturer’s containers in the pro-
vided solids contents, and not diluted in any manner. Application is by low-pressure spray
equipment (Fig. 3.48), deep-nap rollers (Fig. 3.49), or squeegees. The concrete should be
thoroughly saturated with the material. Brooming of material to disperse ponding collection
for even distribution and penetration is then required. Concrete porosity will determine the
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amount of material required for effective treatment, typically ranging from 100 to 150 ft /gal
of material.
Adjacent metal, glass, or painted surfaces of the building envelope should be protected
from sealer overspray. All sealant work should be completed before sealer application to
prevent joint contamination that causes disbonding of sealants.
Deck sealers are extremely toxic and should not be applied in interior or enclosed areas
without adequate ventilation. Workers should be protected from direct contact with materials
(Fig. 3.50). Sealers are flammable and should be kept away from open flame and extreme heat.

PROTECTED MEMBRANES

With certain designs, horizontal above-grade decks require the same waterproofing protec-
tion as below-grade areas subjected to water table conditions. At these areas, membranes

FIGURE 3.48 Horizontal spray application of clear deck sealer.
(Courtesy of Sivento)