Westcoat Specialty Coatings System
Westcoat Specialty Coatings System
Westcoat Specialty Coatings System
When building a rooftop deck or balcony, be sure you pay close attention to the details to avoid potential waterproofing failures. Here are the best practices to follow to prolong the life of the deck surface and waterproofing system.
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Deck flashing is vital because it prevents water damage around the perimeter of the water deck coating system and acts as a bridge to siding, stucco or cladding. If flashing is not properly installed in can contribute to leaking, which can exacerbate wood rot, and mold, that can weaken the deck.
Be sure your flashing adheres to accepted industry standards, which state that flashing needs to be 4- x 6-inch at all wall-to-deck junctions, have a 2- x 4-inch drip edge on all outside edges, and flashing needs to overlap 4 to 6 inches. We recommend using bonderized metal for waterproofing coatings. Stainless steel, galvanized steel and copper are all acceptable materials for flashing, and will need to be prepped before applying the coating.
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Improper deck rail placement can cause water intrusion
Water intrusion in a waterproofing system is commonly seen often due to a poor railing installation, which causes failure in the deck coating system. Deck mounted railings, which penetrate the waterproof membrane will not only contribute to leaks but will make maintenance more difficult. We recommend installing a face mount railing as seen in the picture.
Cricketing balconies with parapet walls
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Balconies enclosed by a wall can inhibit the drainage of water. Even with proper sloping of the deck, the water can puddle and not reach the scuppers. Therefore, proper cricketing of a balcony deck is crucial with an adequate number of scuppers.
Stopping water from entering a threshold
Interior elevations should always be higher than exterior elevations to ensure that water cannot flow over the threshold. The use of SBS Sheet membranes is highly recommended under flashing, drains and at thresholds, as a means of extra protection. Be sure threshold flashing is installed correctly, proper hem flashing is installed under the door, and there is a minimum of ¾-inch elevation above the deck. Please be aware of American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance for this type of building and in your building jurisdiction
Find a manufacturer that offers a complete waterproofing system
There are many products on the market that can be applied, to waterproofing a deck. We highly recommend that you find a manufacturer that offers a complete system with all the products needed, instead of piecing products together from multiple manufacturers. This will ensure a longer-term warranty, and the manufacturer should be able to get you in touch with a subcontractor that has applied the coatings. We suggest systems that comes with a 1-hour fire rating and are rated as a Class-1 vapor vetarder. For additional information and training, visit Westcoat Specialty Coatings Systems.
