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We’ve had contractors call us to ask why their joint sealant isn’t setting right or taking too long to set. The answer can be one of two things. Either the small can of activator is expired – for best outcomes, you will want to use DECK-O-SEAL within one year of our manufacturing date – or there’s a second reason: the installer didn’t use a stop watch set to 10 minutes. You may think that using a stop watch is overkill theater, but the truth is, a two-component joint sealant like our DECK-O-SEAL joint sealant is designed to be mixed for…
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W. R. MEADOWS Celebrates NATIONAL PENNSYLVANIA DAY
W. R. MEADOWS Celebrates NATIONAL PENNSYLVANIA DAY with a DIGITAL PROJECT LOOK BOOK As many of you know, South Central Pennsylvania is home to our manufacturing facility in York. This facility is strategically located to better serve our New England, East Coast, Mid-Atlantic and Eastern Seaboard construction supply customers. We recently celebrated NATIONAL PENNSYLVANIA DAY with a quick look back at some of the fun projects we’ve been involved in over the years, from the Bala Cynwyd Public Library to the Sands Casino, the Lehigh County Government Center, the Crum Creek Viaduct, and the Kalahari Resort. You can read about…
How Will Inflation Impact the Construction Industry?
Construction Economics Analyst Ed Zarenski Has Your Answers Ed Zarenski spent 42 years in construction, 30 of which he spent as a building project cost estimator and construction economics analyst. Today Bloomberg News, the Washington Post, The Financial Times, CNBC, Los Angeles Times, Marketwatch, Newsweek, strategy+business, Yahoo! Finance, ConstructechTV, Ontario Construction News and more seek Ed Zarenski’s crystal ball for deciphering what’s really happening in the construction industry, beyond the headlines. Ed also taught Advanced Construction Cost Estimating and Construction Economics for five years at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and writes an industry blog, Construction Analytics on EdZarenski.com, where he…
5 Tips to Protect Your Bottom Line
How the Construction Industry Can Sidestep Supply Chain Disruptions and Rising Builder Supply Costs How long will we remember the “Ever Given”? While history may relegate the Suez Canal-blocking ship’s name to fodder for future pub trivia, world economies and supply chains will be feeling the impact for months ahead. After all, the Ever Given blocked 350 vessels. Lloyd’s List estimated more than $9 billion worth of goods daily pass through that 120-mile waterway. When you multiply that $9 billion by the 6 days and 7 hours of canal obstruction, that’s a lot of balboas (Panama’s currency) for downstream companies…
7 Air Barrier Facts Architects and Specifiers Need to Know
Insider Guidance from the Air Barrier Association of America’s Ex-Chairman and W. R. MEADOWS’ Building Envelope Product Group Manager Russ Snow is a proven industry thought leader on air barriers, most recently receiving the distinction of a fellowship induction from the Air Barrier Association of America (more on that here) for his commitment to influencing industry best practices. Russ briefed me today regarding air barrier trends in Q2 of 2021. Here’s an excerpt from our conversation: Q: Are there any new trends in air barriers? Russ: This isn’t necessarily a trend, but I want to point out that within the…
Deck-O-Seal Color Options
Our pool product division, DECK-O-SEAL, offers different color options for products DECK-O-SEAL and DECK-O-SEAL ONE STEP® to match all of your projects needs. DECK-O-SEAL is a polysulfide-based joint sealant used for caulking and sealing joints subject to concrete movement to provide a firm, flexible, weather-tight seal ideal for sealing joints around swimming pools. DECK-O-SEAL ONE STEP polymer-based sealing compound is ideal for glazing operations and sealing joints in concrete structures and swimming pools above the waterline, where the tile meets the pool coping. You can choose from Jet Black, White, Stone Gray, Desert Tan, or Redwood for DECK-O-SEAL and Dura-White,…
Properly Install Bentonite Clay Waterproofing Membrane with Animation Tutorial
Bentonite clay waterproofing membrane offers positive puncture protection under hydrostatic conditions with its self-sealing capabilities. CLAY-TITE bentonite clay waterproofing membrane by W. R. MEADOWS also has an additional layer consisting of virgin, 20-mil HDPE which provides further waterproofing security. CLAY-TITE membrane may be safely installed against shotcrete due to its tough polypropylene fabric. Successful waterproofing protection takes place when a quality product is installed properly. Available to help aid in installing CLAY-TITE correctly, we now offer an animated installation tutorial that features instructions that visually demonstrate step-by-step directions to make sure CLAY-TITE performs most effectively. This video may also be…
How to choose the right KEYWAY PVC tongue and groove joint form
KEYWAY is a lightweight, flexible, tongue and groove joint made from PVC. Easily mold a keyed tongue and groove construction joint with KEYWAY. KEYWAY is resistant to impact and warping. Simply nail or staple KEYWAY to the form or header prior to pouring the concrete. After the concrete sets, KEYWAY can be stripped easily to be reused, or it can be safely left in place. KEYWAY comes in two sizes, small and large. A KEYWAY size information technical bulletin is available to help make sure the proper size is selected. This informational document shows nominal measurements to the closest 1/8th…
Celebrating 95 Years
W. R. MEADOWS is proud to announce that 2021 marks our milestone 95th year of business operation. Co-founded in 1926 by W. R. “Bob” Meadows and Edna Meadows, W. R. MEADOWS has grown steadily through the decades to become what it is today: a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of high-quality building materials for today’s construction professionals. Since our founding in 1926, we continue to provide our customers with the highest quality products, outstanding service, and superior business integrity. Since our founding in 1926, the business has remained family-owned and operated. From our beginning 95 years ago, with Asphalt Expansion Joint…
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…
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
In this application, PRECON® was used as a pre-placed/blindside waterproofing solution for a terminal rail station at the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Corgan Associated selected PRECON for the 240,000 sq ft. project because it met physical requirements while also being cost effective and easy to apply. PRECON is a composite sheet membrane comprised of a non-woven fabric, elastomeric membrane, and W. R. MEADOWS’ exclusive, patented plasmatic core (U.S. Patent No. 7,179,761). It is used as a blindside membrane in vertical applications where access to the positive side is limited. Along with PRECON, Corgan Associated architects selected BEM, MEL-DRAIN™ and MEL-ROL®…
MEL-DRAIN TOTAL DRAIN. The Complete Drainage System.
The MEL-DRAIN TOTAL-DRAIN sheet drain system combines any regular MEL-DRAIN sheet drain section with the unique TOTAL-DRAIN section. In the TOTAL-DRAIN system, the regular sheet drain performs its normal function of water collection, while the TOTAL-DRAIN section provides both water collection and a high-profile section for water flow to the designed drainage exits. TOTAL-DRAIN is a two-part, prefabricated geocomposite drain consisting of a formed 24″ high HIPS core covered on one side with a non-woven, needle-punched polypropylene filter fabric. The top section is 12″ of 7/16″ core for water collection. The bottom section is 12″ of 1″ thick for water…
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…
MEL-DRAIN
MEL-DRAIN is a drainage product that combine geotextile filter fabrics with specially designed drainage cores. Used in conjunction with a total W. R. MEADOWS moisture protection system, MEL-DRAIN is the ideal choice for enhanced waterproofing protection of basement walls, plaza decks, earth-sheltered homes, commercial buildings, retaining walls, underground parking, site drainage, etc. This geocomposite allows the passage of moisture through the fabric while preventing fine soils from entering the drainage channel. Various drain designs are available, depending on compressive strength and flow rate requirements. (An optional polyester backing film is available when used in conjunction with flexible waterproofing material.) The…
The Evolution of Fluid-Applied Membranes – The Construction Specifier (09/20)
Print Version By Isaac Sorensen, CSI; Russ Snow, CSP, CTR, BSS, LEED AP; Scott Wolff, CSI, CDT, BEC; Conleigh Bauer, CSI, CDT; Stacey Bogdanow, CTR; Taylor Wodzinski; Patrick Raney, CSI, ICRI, and Roger Smith, CSI, ICRI After centuries of use, fluid-applied waterproofing continues to evolve as the primary method of structural waterproofing. According to Grand View Research, fluid-applied waterproofing is predicted to be a $37-38 billion market by 2025. Historically, humans have used variations of liquid membranes to waterproof their structures since hunters and gatherers used large leaves and tree sap to protect their excess grain from moisture. In the…
History of W. R. MEADOWS
W. R. MEADOWS INC., was started 1926, by a visionary and entrepreneur W.R. “Bob” Meadows established a new company to manufacture a single product – asphalt expansion joints – to be used for the rapidly expanding national highway and road system. The product become known as SEALTIGHT in 1930 and a knight in armor – SIR SEALTIGHT – was adopted as the company’s image. From the beginning, W. R. MEADOWS, INC. was determined to play a leadership role in the concrete construction industry. The company built a reputation for quality, service and integrity among architects, engineers and contractors in the…
W. R. MEADOWS on BIMsmith
BIMsmith created a revolutionary tool called BIMsmith Market. BIMsmith Market allows for designers, engineers, and architects to effortlessly compare, build, and download products from manufactures like W. R. MEADOWS. Because W. R. MEADOWS has a complete building envelope system, creating Revit models has never been easier. BIMsmith Market is the leading building product research tool for architects and designers to research products, then download them for Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and more. The products that can be found on BIMsmith Market from W. R. MEADOWS include: PRECON, AIR-SHIELD LMP, MEL-ROL LM, and more! BIMsmith also includes filters such as fire safety…
Department of Transportation Approval Page
What’s New W. R. MEADOWS has recently added a page to the website and app that has an encompassing list of the Department of Transportation (DOT) approved products. The DOT regulates which products can be used on transportation related jobs. These regulations are a strict combination of product standards, VOC regulations, chemical composition, and a lot more. The new page is in the products tab under the State DOT approval. The DOT Approvals page is an easy resource for customers to find out what W. R. Meadows products are on their state’s DOT qualified product list. The page highlights the…
INDUROSHINE System
What is INDUROSHINE? INDUROSHINE is a jobsite friendly polished concrete flooring system that combines “green” concrete grinding and polishing system from our approved network of applicators with LIQUI-HARD 0.0 g/L VOC-compliant concrete densifier and sealer from W. R. MEADOWS. This provides owners and specifiers with the best polished concrete flooring system on the market. Durability that lasts! For more information on INDUROSHINE, click here: https://www.wrmeadows.com/concrete-densifiers-hardeners-polished-concrete-flooring/ Why Use INDUROSHINE Concrete is the most commonly used building material in the world. It is designed to be tough, durable, practical and sustainable. Some would consider concrete’s inherent strengths to also be its architectural…
MED-CURE
MED-CURE is a ready-to-use, water-based, VOC-compliant concrete curing agent, hardener, and dustproofer. It is residue-free and contains no wax, resin, or other materials that would inhibit the bond of subsequent coatings and/or treatments over substrate treated with MED-CURE. USES MED-CURE is ideal as a curing aid as well as for hardening and dustproofing exposed concrete floor slabs, sidewalks, driveways, beams, columns, etc. It can be used to provide a dust-free surface on concrete floors to be painted or covered by resilient, carpeted, wood, or synthetic flooring. FEATURES/BENEFITS Meets the moisture retention requirement of ASTM C309 on hard trowel concrete. Penetrates…
LIQUI-HARD
LIQUI-HARD concrete densifier and chemical hardener compound is a proprietary, water-based, low VOC, ready-to-use, clear silicate liquid, formulated with chemically reactive raw materials to harden and dustproof concrete. This waterborne solution, when properly applied, offers substantial improvement in abrasion and chemical resistance and will significantly improve the durability of the concrete surface when compared to untreated concrete. As LIQUI-HARD is applied and penetrates into the concrete surface, a chemical reaction takes place, producing a byproduct that fills in the pores of the concrete. This process produces a substantially denser concrete surface with enhanced durability. In addition to the densifying and…
Sealer Maintenance
You’ve got that nice, beautiful, lustrous concrete floor now protected by a W. R. Meadows curing and sealing compound, but how do you maintain that look? Here’s some tips on proper floor maintenance after the application of our product. The following steps are recommended for proper maintenance of W. R. MEADOWS curing and sealing compounds and concrete sealers. Routine dust mopping, sweeping, vacuuming, etc. This will help remove any dust, dirt, grit, etc., which can dull the appearance of the concrete sealer if left on the surface. Routine damp-mopping with a commercially available, MILD cleaner.* Avoid cleaners that contain ammonia, harsh chemicals,…
MEL-ROL and Application Guidelines
What is MEL-ROL? MEL-ROL is a waterproofing membrane that provides a cost-effective answer to provide moisture protection in all below grade applications in residential and commercial construction. MEL-ROL waterproofing system is a flexible, versatile, dependable, bituminous, roll-type waterproofing membrane. It is composed of a nominally 56 mil thick layer of polymeric waterproofing membrane on a heavy-duty, four-mil thick, cross-laminated polyethylene carrier film. It is equally effective for use as between-the-slab waterproofing on plaza decks, parking decks, and structural slabs. Use it as a waterproofing membrane to isolate mechanical and electronic rooms, laboratories, kitchens, and bathrooms. MEL-ROL offers positive protection when…
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…
CDPH Compliant Sealers
What is a VOC VOC stands for volatile organic compound. VOCs are found in many chemical formulations and exhibit a high degree of volatility. Substances that are classified as volatile tend to readily enter the atmosphere when allowed to vent to the air. VOCs can be flammable and have a variety of potential health issues if improperly handled. What Contains VOC To see a full list of VOC sources, check out this article from American Lung Association. Some of the most predominant products from that list include: paint, paint strippers Varnishes and finishes Caulks and sealants Adhesives Flooring, carpet, pressed…
AIR-SHIELD SMP and Product Application
AIR-SHIELD SMP INTRODUCTION AIR-SHIELD SMP is our brand-new product in our line of air shields. AIR-SHIELD SMP is a tough, durable membrane that exhibits excellent resistance to air leakage and liquid water intrusion, while at the same time allow vapor to readily pass through to allow the wall assembly to dry. This product is perfect to fit your above grade waterproofing needs. USES AIR-SHIELD SMP may be applied to most common surfaces and integrated into various wall assemblies. AIR-SHIELD SMP is suitable for both new construction and retrofit applications and works equally well as an air barrier on precast…
DECK-O-GRIP: New samples available!
DECK-O-GRIP Let’s face it, pool decks can get slippery. DECK-O-GRIP is the perfect product to both protect the outdoor concrete surface around your pool and add slip-resistance to the surface to protect from falls and slips. DECK-O-GRIP is a non-yellowing, acrylic-based, high solids, transparent, easy-to-apply liquid cure and seal. It provides a clear, flexible and durable abrasion- and stain-resistant protective film. DECK-O-GRIP also offers improved resistance to most of today’s common pool chemicals. It is specifically designed to retain and enhance the appearance of colored concrete and exposed aggregate surfaces for years to come. The compound contains a slip-resistant additive,…
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…
DECRA-SEAL NATURAL
Description DECRA-SEAL NATURAL is water-based sealer that enhances the natural color and features of decorative concrete, hardscapes, unglazed tiles, concrete pavers, and a variety of porous natural and artificial stone. For more information click the data sheets HERE. Benefits DECRA-SEAL NATURAL is a penetrating water repellent that chemically bonds to the substrate, increasing the service life by providing protection against deterioration or staining. In addition, DECRA-SEAL NATURAL does not create a glossy finish on the surface, instead it preserves the natural look of the substance. It also has a very low VOC which means it is safer for the user…
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…
Choose Decra-Seal W/B to Protect and Enhance Your Decorative Concrete Creations
Decra-Seal W/B from W. R. Meadows is a non-yellowing, high solids, liquid sealer for decorative concrete. The product is clear, transparent, and easy to apply. DECRA-SEAL W/B also offers greatly improved chemical resistance when compared to standard curing and sealing compounds. The product has been formulated to seal and protect decorative colored concrete by producing a hard (yet flexible) clear film. Decra-Seal W/B is designed for various applications, including interior/exterior concrete surfaces, driveways, patios, swimming pool areas, and exposed aggregate, as well as any interior/exterior surface where protection and sealing of concrete is desired. The use of Decra-Seal W/B on…
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…
New DECRA-SEAL Samples Now Available
DECRA-SEAL decorative concrete curing and sealing compound produces a hard yet flexible film designed to seal and protect exterior concrete surfaces such as driveways, patios, swimming pool areas, and exposed aggregate concrete surfaces. This non-yellowing, acrylic-based, high solids liquid curing and sealing compound is clear, transparent, and easy to apply. The permeable film in DECRA-SEAL allows moisture in cured concrete to evaporate. DECRA-SEAL provides a glossy, long-lasting appearance that will not yellow. Recently available is a DECRA-SEAL sample that shows the difference in appearance between untreated concrete and the aesthetically-pleasing sheen that DECRA-SEAL offers. This complimentary sample can be requested…
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…
How to Protect and Beautify Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate allows the natural stone in concrete to be on display, offering a unique, visually appealing texture and a variety of eye-catching colors to appear. As in any concrete construction project, it’s imperative to protect the surface from staining, dusting, wear, and damaging water infiltration. With EXPO-GLOSS from W. R. MEADOWS, exposed aggregate protection can be achieved as well as enhancing the natural beauty of the revealed stone by adding a “wet-look” glossy finish. EXPO-GLOSS is available in clear-transparent and Merrimac brown-transparent to offer a choice in finished appearance. EXPO-GLOSS is equally appropriate for use on old or freshly…
Hampshire Hosts 2019 Sales Training
A fun and informative sales training took place in Hampshire August 20th through 23rd that offered an opportunity to allow our newest employees to get hands-on with some of our most popular products and listen to several information-packed sessions presented by our knowledgeable team members. This comprehensive week of learning covered W. R. Meadow’s liquid line of products, expansion joints and plastics, restoration products, vaporproofing, waterproofing, cementitious waterproofing, air barriers, hot and cold sealants, and our pool and POURTHANE products. There was also an architectural presentation and direct marketing segment that took knowledge of W. R. Meadows’ product line one…
How to Optimize your Results from LIQUI-HARD
LIQUI-HARD and LIQUI-HARD ULTRA concrete densifiers and chemical hardeners are designed to be used on effectively and efficiently cured concrete floors for optimal results. MED-CURE concrete curing agent, hardener, and dustproofer is the ideal curing aid to prepare concrete surfaces for the next step in the densifying process, offering the ability to supplement the LIQUI-HARD line of products to produce tough, durable, long-lasting concrete floors. MED-CURE is residue-free and contains no wax, resin, or other materials that would impair the bond of coatings or treatments over concrete where MED-CURE had been applied, making it idyllic to be used before LIQUI-HARD.…
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…