How bad will hurricane season be this year?
It’s not looking good. Hurricane Beryl was the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record and only the second ever recorded in July. Overall, one respected weather authority expects 25 tropical storms, 12 hurricanes and six major hurricanes before the season ends on November 30.
For contractors operating in Atlantic and Gulf coastal states, it’s a good time to think about avoiding problems from intense driving rains. One effective preparedness strategy that’s often overlooked is rated to fight off wind-driven rain of up to 140 mph (Category 4) and resists 15 PSI, the water pressure equivalent of a 33-feet high (three stories) wall of water.
For homes made of concrete, stucco or masonry, there’s nothing like a properly applied coating of a top rated waterproofer to seal off water intrusion. A few reasons why:
- Small openings or cracks allow water to penetrate the envelope, opening the home to mold, mildew and other respiratory hazards
- Interior and exterior air pressure differentials can be significant. Tiny exterior openings can then act like a vacuum, drawing in water from the hydrostatic pressure
- The duration of exposure – one day? two days? three or more? – can weaken the envelope and make it even more vulnerable to water intrusion
In truth, it’s likely to be a combination of all three forces at work. Very few coatings or sealers are formulated to withstand such pressures. What makes a top performing waterproofing coating different?
ASTM Tested
“Cement fillers create a dense, waterproof barrier,” explains Michele Neary, director – product management for United Gilsonite Laboratories (UGL), a Sika company, a leading manufacturer of specialty paints and coatings, including Drylok, the building industry’s top brand for masonry protection. “The formula is a liquid applied waterproofer which penetrates deep into the substrate’s pores, creating a seamless watertight coating across the surface.” Effectiveness is tested to ASTM D-7088 (hydrostatic pressure) and ASTM D-6904 (wind-driven rain) standards.
Neary is quick to point out that breathability should also be considered. A concrete and masonry waterproofer should allow water vapor to escape, which is permeability. “Breathability regulates moisture by allowing any trapped substrate moisture to escape as vapor,” she notes, adding DRYLOK also includes a biocide that helps resist mildew.
What Users Think
What do homeowners think? This south New Jersey homeowner remembers the time he put Drylok to the test on the eve of Hurricane Sandy.
“I only had enough waterproofer for one coat up to four feet,” the owner recalls. “By rainfall, the sealer still had another hour for full curing. From Sunday afternoon through Tuesday morning, the coating withstood the torrential downpour. I was very impressed.”
The experts at Drylok recommend following application instructions accurately, especially in hurricane situations, prepare and plan the project before storms hit, Outside or inside, a top-grade waterproofer like Drylok represents a high-value service opportunity for pros in a hurricane zone. Surface preparation and application don’t require special tools beyond a high-quality nylon bristle brush, ¾” nap roller or industrial sprayer. If brushing or spraying, be sure to back brush two recommended coats.
Hurricanes and severe thunderstorms are nasty and getting nastier. Show homeowners with concrete, stucco or masonry exteriors why it’s time to protect their home with the water-stopping power of Drylok.
Learn more about how Drylok works to safeguard homes from extreme weather events.
