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There is much debate over the role and merit (as well as need) for vapor barriers within varied sects of the construction industry—however, there is a simple truth no matter what side of the discussion you happen to find yourself on. Ultimately, the systems under your building and above the concrete slab need protection, too, and simply leaving HVAC systems, wiring and plumbing, or the framework itself exposed offers far too much room for error—and seriously tempts Murphy’s Law. There is no sense in leaving the fate of your building up to chance, because let’s face it—damage can occur above…
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Building Envelope
Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Crawl Space Vapor Barriers
One of the realities of constructing and repairing commercial buildings is forever remaining aware of the dangers of moisture. Rotting wood, mold, chipped paint and more are all risks of water entering the building in areas where it’s not wanted. One good leak could cause tens of thousands of dollars of damage, and an area that is already susceptible could cause multiple rounds of damage if not dealt with effectively. So prevention is key to protecting buildings from the havoc moisture can wreak. But a rotted roof and a massive storm aren’t the only ways moisture can enter a commercial…
Getting Specified for the McCausland Lower School & Commons
W. R. MEADOWS was specified in a project for the McCausland Lower School & Commons. To read the full case study, click here. Tim Durso was the salesperson representing W. R. MEADOWS on the McCausland project. One of the products used on this project was AIR-SHIELD ALUMINUM SHEET MEMBRANE. This product is a self-adhering air/vapor and liquid moisture barrier, and it is part of a total W. R. MEADOWS system used in completing a building envelope. It is a roll-type product that is nominally 40 mils thick, and the membrane’s controlled thickness is fabricated from aluminum bonded to specially modified…
PRECON For Blindside Waterproofing and Vaporproofing
PRECON goes where conventional waterproofing products are impractical – such as positive-side waterproofing where access is prohibited due to the soil retention system. PRECON fabric bonds tenaciously to poured concrete walls to create solid waterproofing protection. Superior to traditional clay-type products, PRECON features a greater seal to stop water in its tracks. A flexible, rubberized asphalt core also creates stronger protection than clay-type products currently used. The plasmatic core is a seven-layer matrix designed for toughness and provides the lowest water vapor transmission (WVT) rating on the market. Once concrete is poured against PRECON and the concrete cures, a mechanical…
PRECON and How to Apply it Horizontally
What is PRECON PRECON is a composite sheet membrane comprised of a non-woven fabric, elastomeric membrane that is used for waterproofing vertically and horizontally. The plasmatic core is a seven-layer matrix designed for toughness and provides the lowest water vapor transmission (WVT) rating on the market. Once concrete is poured against PRECON and the concrete cures, a mechanical bond forms that secures the concrete to the membrane. Uses PRECON is used as a blindside membrane in vertical applications where access to the positive side is limited. The membrane can also be…
Waterproofing
One of the largest problems facing structures today is water infiltration. When water and water vapor are able to seep into structures, it can contribute to mold growth and the durability of the structure. As below-grade waterproofing is critical to the long-term performance of a structure, it is essential this is addressed with a complete waterproofing system designed and constructed specific for the structure. According to The Concrete Network, “draining any water away and ensuring a dry interior space below grade can be relatively simple or fairly involved depending on geographic location, climate, topography, soil/water table conditions, and depth of…
Learn the Proper Spraying Application for SEALMASTIC EMULSION
Overview SEALMASTIC emulsion-type dampproofing coatings are ideal for reducing dampness and moisture infiltration through foundation walls, parapets, firewalls, tanks, culverts, cisterns, and bridge abutments. They are also applicable for stonebacking, above-grade cavity wall applications, and below-grade masonry wall dampproofing. The SEALMASTIC product line also helps to minimize internal structural damage from mildew and mold, and is compatible with ICF foam forms. Three Types of SEALMASTIC SEALMASTIC TYPE I (spray-grade) is an asphalt-based, nonfibered, clay emulsion. Under normal use, it resists flow or sag. Its greater resistance to water is ideal where spray application is desired. SEALMASTIC TYPE II (brush-on/spray-grade) is…
Learn more about the full line of building envelope products from W. R. Meadows
For years, W. R. Meadows has focused our efforts on manufacturing products that protect the building envelope, such as underslab vapor barriers, concrete waterproofing, and air barriers. Our line is seamless – our products work together as a continuous system to help buildings become more energy efficient, by helping a building block the ingress of moisture underground and above it. We’ve also been involved with LEED-certified structures. Our products are made with recycled material, use nearby raw material sources, and help make a building sustainable, durable, and energy-efficient. To help our distributor partners, contractors, and design teams learn more about…
A New Home For Bioscience Research (Case Study)
Print Version Pursuing the cutting edge in research and education has always been a focus at the University of Arizona—located in Tucson. And this intent was evident when the University first set out to build a new hub, on campus, to house bioscience research themes that included work on biosensors, bioimaging, bioinformatics, healthy aging, genomics technology, and precision medicine. The building itself is a joint collaboration between the University of Arizona Office for Research, Discovery, and Innovation and the University’s Department of Health Sciences. It was designed by ZGF Architects and BWS Architects, and the general contractor was DPR Construction.…
Heavy-Duty Construction Requires a Highly Puncture-Resistant Barrier
W. R. MEADOWS understands that jobsite conditions are often unforgiving when it comes to being cautious with construction products. Underslab vapor barriers can especially take a beating and are commonly exposed to construction traffic that can easily crack, puncture, snag, split, or tear weak membranes. In order to combat these potentially damaging conditions, W. R. MEADOWS offers PERMINTOR HP, a 15 mil underslab vapor barrier with high puncture resistance. PERMINATOR HP’s polyolefin-based resin/chemical technology allows for a dramatically greater puncture resistance compared to standard underslab vapor barriers while maintaining one of the lowest perm ratings on the market. Take comfort…
How to Get the Most out of Air-Shield SMP
It’s no surprise that having an efficient air and liquid moisture barrier is an important part of the building envelope, but the unique features AIR-SHIELD SMP offers to get the job done may have you rethinking the entire air barrier process. AIR-SHIELD SMP is W. R. MEADOWS’ first and only sheet membrane air and moisture barrier that allows vapor transmission, offering a highly flexible, controlled thickness membrane application option that is also vapor permeable. AIR-SHIELD SMP also uniquely features the ability to self-adhere to the substrate without the use of a primer, saving time and money by removing this additional…
AIR-SHIELD Brochure Available in English and Spanish
W. R. MEADOWS offers a complete line of air/vapor and liquid moisture barriers to assist in preventing against poor indoor air quality, inflated energy costs, mold growth, and other damaging results from an unreliable building envelope. Our AIR-SHIELD line includes fluid-applied air barriers, sheet membranes, providing both vapor permeable and impermeable formulations to suite a wide variety of building envelope application needs. Our comprehensive AIR-SHIELD brochure offers an overview of each product the AIR-SHIELD air barrier family comprises of to better understand their functions and proper use. This brochure is offered in both English and Spanish. It can be viewed…
W. R. MEADOWS Introduces AIR-SHIELD SMP
New from W. R. MEADOWS comes AIR-SHIELD SMP sheet membrane vapor permeable air/liquid moisture barrier. It is a self-adhesive membrane that is designed to be fully bonded to the substrate without the use of a primer, saving time and money by removing this additional step. AIR-SHIELD SMP also offers a vapor-permeable sheet membrane option to complete W. R. MEADOWS offering of above-grade products to the air barriers line. AIR-SHIELD SMP is tough, durable, and exhibits excellent resistance to air leakage and liquid intrusion. AIR-SHIELD SMP installation guidelines are available online to provide information regarding the recommended procedures for proper installation.…
Our Air Barriers Handbook is Now Updated
W. R. MEADOWS understands that a reliable building envelope is imperative to provide your construction investment with the best defense from damaging elements. We offer a versatile line of air barriers, including fluid applied barriers, sheet membrane, and vapor-permeable options, to ensure protection peace of mind. The W. R. MEADOWS Air Barriers Handbook has recently been updated to include our newly launched AIR-SHIELD SMP sheet membrane vapor permeable air barrier. This 200-page handbook features detailed information about our full line of air barriers, including product descriptions, application guidelines, and detail drawings. This handy guide can be downloaded as a PDF…
What you need to know about New AIR-SHIELD ALUMINUM SHEET MEMBRANE
New to W. R. MEADOWS’ extensive line of building envelope products comes AIR-SHIELD ALUMINUM SHEET MEMBRANE. This self-adhering air/vapor and liquid moisture barrier is a roll-type product comprised of aluminum bonded to specially modified asphalt. AIR-SHIELD ALUMINUM SHEET MEMBRANE offers several unique features to the building envelope market, including extended UV exposure time, improved sealant capabilities allowing a greater range or sealants that it will adhere to compared to standard poly films, and resistance to punctures during installation when penetrated with self-tapping screws or nails. A handy, printable 1-page PDF can be downloaded which highlights all of AIR-SHIELD ALUMINUM SHEET…
AIR-SHIELD LM New Video Now Available
AIR-SHIELD LM liquid membrane air, vapor, and liquid moisture barrier is a single-component, liquid-applied, water-based, polymer-modified membrane. AIR-SHIELD LM can be applied to most common smooth or rough surfaces in need of a monolithic, seamless membrane and can be integrated into various restoration and new construction wall systems, including green concrete. A new video about AIR-SHIELD LM is now available to view and download through our website. This video discusses the features and benefits of AIR-SHIELD LM as well as visually demonstrating how to properly apply this membrane. The superiority of a product is only as strong as the quality…
Case Study featuring the Minneapolis Veterans Home
When the Minneapolis Veterans Home in Minnesota was in their final stage of its multiple phase, 8-year renovation project, W. R. MEADOWS was proud of the role it played in updating and modernizing Building #22, the 141,800 square foot building comprised of 100 private veterans living quarters, a new skilled nursing facility, resident great rooms, a putting green, and many more sought-after amenities. After using W. R. MEADOWS’ MEL-ROL in the past, Todd Smiley, a project manager at Exterior Building Services (EBS) who was in charge of the installation of air barriers throughout every phases of the Minneapolis Veterans Home…
Required Reading: W. R. Meadows Waterproofing Handbook
Our waterproofing handbook is a great resource for contractors looking for application information on the wide line of waterproofing materials available from W. R. Meadows. This detailed, informational handbook has been recently updated and includes the most up-to-date information on such popular concrete waterproofing products as Mel-Rol, Precon, and Hydralastic 836. The waterproofing handbook covers our entire waterproofing line, and is complete with product descriptions, architectural CAD details, and application instructions. It’s a great tool for contractors as well as architects to see how W. R. Meadows products fit into everyday and unique application situations. The waterproofing handbook, along with…
Choose Perminator EVOH to Effectively Block Vapor and Gas
Our PERMINATOR EVOH is a fantastic solution for underslab installations where blocking harmful gases in the soil is vitally important to the overall performance of the structure. Introduced in 2017, PERMINATOR EVOH has been used throughout North America in many successful projects where a gas barrier is needed. PERMINATOR EVOH is a seven-layer co-extruded barrier manufactured from state-of-the-art polyethylene and EVOH resin and is specifically designed for brownfield sites. PERMINATOR EVOH provides superior resistance to gas and moisture transmission. PERMINATOR EVOH is a highly resilient underslab barrier designed to restrict gases, such as gasoline, solvents, oils, and hydrocarbons from migrating…
Recently Updated PERMINATOR Video Now Available
W. R. MEADOWS’ PERMINATOR 10 and 15 Mil underslab vapor barrier is a highly effective and economical choice to reduce unwanted moisture and water infiltration. Minimize the potential for fungus, mildew and mold growth with PERMINATOR as well as the risk of radon intrusion. PERMINATOR’s polyolefin-based resin/chemical technology offers high puncture resistance with one of the lowest perm ratings available. In order to assure PERMINATOR lives up to its impressive potential, proper installation is essential. PERMINATOR comes to life in a new and improved video now available to view and download through our website. This handy reference offers a product…
What is Window and Door Flashing and Why Do I Need It?
Planning on having a complete, properly-sealed, and void-free building envelope? Even if everything is perfectly planned and executed, your barrier will still end up with giant holes we more commonly refer to as doors and windows. This is where flashing becomes necessary to properly seal around these unavoidable barrier disruptions to prevent wood rot, mold, structural damage, or insect infestation. Flashing is a thin layer of waterproofing that eliminates upward-facing seams, crevices, gaps, or spaces where moisture could collect and seep past the barrier. Proper flashing ensures a seamless, shingled waterproofing surface that will not interfere with the force of…
How to Install an Effective Underslab Gas Vapor Barrier
When superior resistance to gas and moisture transmission is of upmost importance, the performance of the vapor barrier is only as effective as how well it was installed, no matter the quality of the product. W. R. MEADOWS’ PERMINATOR EVOH is a highly resilient gas/vapor barrier designed to restrict naturally occurring gases from traveling through the ground and into the concrete structure above. When properly installed, PERMINATOR EVOH is an effective barrier against radon, methane, solvents, oils, and hydrocarbons. To ensure the ability for PERMINATOR EVOH to show its strength, step-by-step directions in the form of installation guidelines are available…
Precon from W. R. Meadows is your moisture protection solution.
The effectiveness, overall efficiency, and hiqh quality of PRECON, W. R. MEADOWS’ pre-applied/underslab waterproofing membrane, is demonstrated by the fact that architects and contractors continue to trust it for their biggest projects. For 2019, consider PRECON for all your building envelope construction projects, especially ones that require an effective vaporproofing and waterproofing membrane. PRECON is used as a blindside membrane in vertical applications where access to the positive side is limited. The membrane can also be used for horizontal applications for underslab waterproofing and vaporproofing. It is a composite sheet membrane comprised of a non-woven fabric, elastomeric membrane, and W. R.…
How to Repair a Building Envelope Barrier Membrane
A lot of time, money, and effort goes into achieving a leak-free building envelope. Tears, punctures, air blisters, and fishmouths can interrupt the continuity of a barrier in an otherwise properly installed membrane. Accurately repairing these disruptions is essential to achieve the proper bond of a self-adhering barrier membrane. W. R. MEADOWS offers a repair procedure technical bulletin which outlines the steps needed to accomplish repairs needed to maintain the integrity of AIR-SHIELD, W. R. MEADOWS’ high quality self-adhering air/vapor and liquid moisture barrier option. These instructions are also available in a convenient PDF that can be saved to a…
How to properly install a underslab / blindside waterproofing / vaporproofing membrane
While choosing the correct waterproofing/vaporproofing membrane is important to achieve a successful barrier in any underslab or blindside application, proper installation is imperative to avoid costly and time-consuming repairs if failures occur. W. R. MEADOWS recommends using PRECON pre-applied underslab/blindside waterproofing membrane for vertical and horizontal applications when access to the positive side of the concrete is restricted. Prior to applying PRECON, proper surface preparation is necessary to ensure the surface is structurally sound and all objects are removed that may cause damage to the membrane. Use of MEL-DRAIN is recommended to be used with PRECON to assure proper site…
Winter is Coming, but PRECON can Handle it
Labor Day marks the end of summer and colder weather is just around the corner, but don’t let the changing of the seasons inhibit construction plans. PRECON underslab membrane offers a tough blindside waterproofing solution and is able to prevent moisture infiltration and reduce methane and radon gas invasion even in low temperatures. PRECON’s seven-layer matrix designed to mechanically bond to concrete once it cures can be installed in temperatures down to 40°F (5°C). PRECON LOW TEMP is recommended for environments where the temperature is between 60° F (16° C) and 25° F (-4° C). To assist with effective installation,…
Reduce moisture and water vapor effectively with proper PERMINATOR installation
PERMINATOR underslab vapor barrier with polyolefin-based resin/chemical technology offers one of the lowest perm ratings available combined with the additional benefit of considerable puncture resistance. PERMINATOR helps protect structures from fungus, mildew and mold growth by reducing moisture and water vapor infiltration through the concrete slab. PERMINATOR also restricts radon gas from entering the building. As important as it is to choose the correct vapor barrier, proper installation is key to ensure effective protection. To assist in application, installation instructions are available. These guidelines cover typical PERMINATOR applications including penetration detail procedures and how to patch holes. A PDF version…
Ensure a seamless building envelope with the proper application of AIR-SHIELD
AIR-SHIELD self-adhering moisture barrier offers a strong and durable option to prevent unwanted air, vapor, and liquid infiltration through the building envelope. This roll-type membrane allows for guaranteed consistent coverage and will adhere to most primed surfaces at minimum temperature of 40° F (4° C). AIR-SHIELD’s self-healing characteristics offer excellent puncture resistance from self-tapping screws or nails during installation. To help with the proper techniques to treat rough openings with AIR-SHIELD, we offer a detailed guide that covers several suitable detailing options. It’s important to install a transition membrane over every rough opening accurately to secure a tight, dependable building…
Learn more about PERMINATOR EVOH, our Newest Underslab Gas Vapor Barrier
PERMINATOR EVOH, W. R. MEADOWS’ most recent addition to its extensive vapor barrier line, offers a strong gas barrier membrane option that is durable and efficient in preventing contaminates in the soil from penetrating the structure. PERMINATOR EVOH’s seven-layer co-extruded barrier manufactured from state-of-the-art polyethylene and EVOH resin is specifically designed for brownfield sites to restrict gases, such as gasoline, solvents, oils, radon, methane, and hydrocarbons from migrating through the ground and into the concrete slab. EVOH also provides superior resistance to moisture transmissions. PERMINATOR EVOH efficiently resists gas and moisture migration as a part of passive or active building…
AIR-SHIELD TMP for Thin yet Durable Air Barrier Protection
As part of W. R. MEADOWS’ fluid-applied air barrier line, AIR-SHIELD TMP offers a thin air and liquid resistive barrier formulated to allow vapor to pass through it. AIR-SHIELD TMP is a great choice when the application does not require a thicker barrier. This single-component, water-based air barrier cures to form a tough, seamless, elastomeric membrane that has been fully tested to comply with all of the performance requirements for an air and water resistive barrier. AIR-SHIELD TMP may be applied to most common rough or smooth surfaces and integrated into various new construction and retrofit wall systems. AIR-SHIELD TMP…
Ensure a Dependable Building Envelope with AIR-SHIELD LSR
When versatility, simplicity, durability, and cost-efficiency are all top priorities for choosing the proper barrier for your building envelope project, look no further than AIR-SHIELD LSR from W. R. MEADOWS. AIR-SHIELD LSR offers a fluid-applied liquid synthetic rubber barrier option capable of air, water, and vapor protection. AIR-SHIELD LSR possesses many fluid-applied material benefits, such as ease of application, seamless protection, and superior performance. AIR-SHIELD LSR is appropriate to use on most common surfaces, various wall systems, and suitable for both new construction and restoration. Non-toxic and with low VOC content, AIR-SHIELD LSR is environmentally compatible, produces no harmful odors,…
AIR-SHIELD LMP Air and Liquid Moisture Barrier Offers Tough Resistance Combined with Vapor Permeance
AIR-SHIELD LMP water-based air and liquid moisture barrier cures to form a tough, seamless, elastomeric membrane specifically formulated to allow vapor to pass through it. Its high permeability allows the transmission of water vapor, while exhibiting excellent resistance to air leakage. AIR-SHIELD LMP’s versatility offers superior adhesion to most common new construction and retrofit applications even when applied over damp surfaces. AIR-SHIELD LMP’s water-based formula features low VOC content allowing for simple, safe application and easy cleanup. Use nails and fasteners without compromising performance with AIR-SHIELD LMP’s self-sealing functionality. AIR-SHIELD LMP comes in standard gray which is UV resistant up…
AIR-SHIELD LM Air, Vapor and Liquid Moisture Barrier for Tough, Seamless Resistance
When excellent resistance to air and moisture transmission is a must, AIR-SHIELD LM single-component, liquid-applied, water-based, polymer-modified moisture barrier is there to inhibit unwanted air, vapor, and liquid intrusion. AIR-SHIELD LM is versatile and suitable for new construction and restoration applications in various wall system integrations. AIR-SHIELD LM is non-toxic and user friendly, allowing for safe application and easy cleanup. Sprayable AIR-SHIELD LM offers excellent adhesion, capable of being firmly bonded to large spaces even when applied over damp surfaces or green concrete, providing an economically efficient solution. We offer specific application instructions to assist with ease of use, including…
Need effective cementitious waterproofing protection? Choose CEM-KOTE FLEX ST.
Looking for an effective cementitious waterproofing product? CEM-KOTE FLEX ST is the answer! W. R. MEADOWS offers this product, along with a series of cementitious waterproofing products, through our exclusive partnership with Gemite. The key product in this line is CEM-KOTE FLEX ST. CEM-KOTE FLEX ST is a highly flexible, fiber-reinforced, breathable, cementitious slurry, consisting of dry Component A and liquid Component B. CEM-KOTE FLEX ST is designed for positive and negative waterproofing of concrete structures in new construction and restoration. It is suitable for water and wastewater tanks, secondary containment structures, tunnels, concrete slabs, balconies, and patios with light…
Reduce moisture and water vapor infiltration with PERMINATOR
If your project is in need of an economical yet highly effective underslab vapor barrier, look no further than PERMINATOR. PERMINATOR offers polyolefin-based resin/chemical technology which significantly increases puncture resistance while maintaining one of the lowest perm ratings available. The use of PERMINATOR will help reduce fungus, mildew and mold growth as well as decrease radon gas infiltration into any building structure. W. R. MEADOWS offers PERMINATOR in two thicknesses, 10 mil and 15 mil options. Both versions are available in 200’ long rolls which unroll efficiently for quick installation and require fewer seams during application. For superior protection, PERMINATOR…
AIR-SHIELD LIQUID FLASHING for Rough Opening Detailing
When rough openings and detail joints between exterior gypsum boards are in need of detailing, AIR-SHIELD LIQUID FLASHING is the general-purpose, wet flashing membrane needed for the job. This high-quality, gun grade flashing and detailing membrane by W. R. MEADOWS is low-odor, elastomeric, polyether, and compatible with the entire line of AIR-SHIELD air, vapor, and liquid moisture barriers. Perfectly designed for window and door flashing applications, AIR-SHIELD LIQUID FLASHING will not harm foam insulation. AIR-SHIELD LIQUID FLASHING is tough and versatile, able to be applied in damp conditions, bonds to most construction materials, and will not peel back when left…
Our Hawkesbury District & General Hospital (HGH) case study is now available!
Our Hawkesbury District & General Hospital (HGH) case study describes the problem and solution when the new additions to the structure were designed and built. This case study is a great way to learn more about how W. R. Meadows products were used to waterproof this large project. When the Hawkesbury District & General Hospital (HGH) decided to build two large additions to its community hospital in Hawkesbury, Ontario, Canada, construction officials knew there was a big problem to solve. Below ground level was a substrate composed of solid rock with gravel on top. That meant there was no…
Russell Snow to Detail W. R. MEADOWS’ Air Barrier Performance at Pittsburgh Conference
W. R. MEADOWS’ Building Envelope Product Group Manager and Building Science Specialist Russell Snow will be featured in a panel discussion on liquid-applied air barriers during the one-day Materials Selection Conference in Pittsburgh on September 26. The event, hosted by Durability + Design magazine, is titled “Building Wall Coatings, Water Repellents and Liquid-Applied Air Barriers.” Snow currently serves as Chair of the Air Barrier Association of America and is a member of the ASTM E06, ASTM D08, and American Concrete Institute committees. He has also been involved for a number of years with Construction Specifications Canada and is currently involved…
W. R. MEADOWS hosts ABAA Installer Training Course
W. R. MEADOWS was very pleased to host an Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) installer certification training course at our location in Hampshire, Illinois for 15 contractors from across the country. ABAA is the national voice of the air barrier industry, setting a high standard for building envelope excellence through their Quality Assurance Program. ABAA President Russ Snow is also Building Science Specialist at W. R. MEADOWS. This 3-day training program, taught by Peter Spafford, the Director of Quality Assurance from the ABAA, focused on both theory and practical instruction for self-adhered and fluid applied air barriers. The classroom…
PRECON Underslab Membrane for Waterproofing and more
When tough underslab waterproofing is needed, PRECON membrane is the product for the job. Prevent moisture infiltration, reduce methane and radon gas invasion, and create a barricade against termites with the addition of PRECON into your construction project. PRECON is made up of non-woven fabric, elastomeric membrane, and a plasmatic core that is exclusively patented by W. R. MEADOWS. PRECON offers the lowest water vapor transmission rating available with its exceptionally tough seven-layer plasmatic core. A mechanical bond is formed between cured concrete and PRECON to ensure the membrane is sealed to the concrete for long-lasting protection. PRECON is ideal…