Once it has been established that waterproofing is required, the next important decision is to determine where it is required. Typically, waterproofing should be applied over all below-grade concrete surfaces.

To review, there are five reasons why waterproofing is required. They are: 1. To meet code requirements. 2. To keep water out of the building. 3. To protect the structure’s concrete and steel elements. 4. To cope with hydrostatic pressure. 5. To minimize economic concerns, such as the cost of future excavation.

In addition to keeping moisture out of the building, waterproofing serves another equally important role. It helps protect the structural elements - concrete and steel - from damage due to moisture and chemicals in the environment.

The determination of hydrostatic pressure is an important element prior to the design stage. This is a basic factor in the choice of a waterproofing system. By definition, if hydrostatic pressure is present then waterproofing - not dampproofing - is required.

The termination of a parapet coping at a wall is a frequent trouble spot. The most common mistake at this intersection is to allow the metal coping to but up to the wall without the application of termination metal. 

As the use of modified bitumen roof systems has increased over the past 20 years there have been significant changes to material technology and material application procedures.

Environmental issues continue to be at the forefront of the roofing industry. These issues and regulations are having an impact on the design and application of roof systems and materials that we will be using well into the 21st Century. 

We started ARW in 2006 with the intent of providing roofing and waterproofing technical information for architects and engineers. The publication initially appeared as an e-zine that was produced four times a year. The publication is now produced six times a year with three e-zines and three print publications.

The most important ingredient in a fine wine is a quality grape. The grape must be properly watered, exposed to sunlight and fertilized. The result of an insufficient grape could be a wine with an unpleasant taste.