ASTM C1127/C1127M-15(2023)

Standard Guide for Use of High Solids Content, Cold Liquid-Applied Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane with an Integral Wearing Surface

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide is divided into two sections which provide design and specification guidelines for the use of a cold liquid-applied elastomeric membrane with integral wearing surface for waterproofing building decks in building areas to be occupied by personnel, vehicles, or equipment.  
4.2 The intent of Sections 5 – 11, Design Considerations, is to provide information and design guidelines where a waterproofing membrane with integral wearing surface is to be used. The intent of the remaining sections is to provide minimum guide specifications for the use of the purchaser and the seller in contract documents.  
4.3 Where the state of the art is such that criteria for a particular condition is not as yet firmly established or has numerous variables that require consideration, reference is made to the applicable portion of Sections 5 – 11 that covers the particular area of concern. Section 16 describes the repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of the membrane.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide describes the design and installation of cold liquid-applied elastomeric waterproofing membrane systems that have an integral wearing surface. The cold liquid-applied elastomeric waterproofing membrane (membrane) to which this guide refers is specified in Specification C957/C957M.  
1.2 Concrete Slab-on-Grade—Waterproofing the upper surface of a concrete slab-on-grade presents special problems due to the possibility of negative hydrostatic pressure causing loss of bond to the substrate. Consideration of these problems is beyond the scope of this guide. Consult the membrane manufacturer for recommendations when this situation exists.  
1.3 The committee having jurisdiction for this guide is not aware of any similar ISO standard.  
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see 15.4.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Aug-2023
• ICS: 83.140.99 - Other rubber and plastics products
• Technical Committee: D08 - Roofing and Waterproofing
• Drafting Committee: D08.25 - Liquid Applied Polymeric Materials Used for Roofing and Waterproofing Membranes that are Directly Exposed to the Weather

Relations

• Refers: ASTM C957/C957M-17(2024) - Standard Specification for High-Solids Content, Cold Liquid-Applied Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane with Integral Wearing Surface
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM D1079-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM C755-20 - Standard Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2020
• Refers: ASTM C755-19b - Standard Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM C755-19a - Standard Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2019
• Refers: ASTM C755-19 - Standard Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C150/C150M-19 - Standard Specification for Portland Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C717-19 - Standard Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM D1079-18e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM D1079-18 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM C717-18 - Standard Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM C920-18 - Standard Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2018
• Refers: ASTM C717-17a - Standard Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM C957/C957M-17 - Standard Specification for High-Solids Content, Cold Liquid-Applied Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane With Integral Wearing Surface
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM C330/C330M-17 - Standard Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete
• Effective Date: 01-May-2017

Overview

ASTM C1127/C1127M-15(2023) provides comprehensive guidelines for the design and use of high solids content, cold liquid-applied elastomeric waterproofing membrane systems that feature an integral wearing surface. These systems are primarily intended for waterproofing building decks in areas subject to personnel, vehicular, or equipment traffic. The standard addresses both technical and practical aspects of specifying, installing, and maintaining these advanced membrane systems, offering valuable insight for architects, specifiers, builders, and product manufacturers concerned with waterproofing performance and durability on structural decks.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application: The standard applies to cold liquid-applied elastomeric membrane systems with integral wearing surfaces, commonly specified for concrete or plywood deck structures where waterproofing and traffic resistance are required.
• Design Considerations: Guidance is provided on evaluating project-specific factors such as substrate type, climatic conditions, drainage, membrane thickness, expected wear, and the compatibility of all system components.
• Structural Requirements: Recommendations are included for suitable concrete substrates (minimum compressive strength, moisture content, finish), and for plywood and incidental substrates to ensure long-lasting adhesion and performance of the membrane.
• Surface Preparation and Application: Detailed advice is offered on preparing various types of substrates-such as concrete, plywood, and metals-including cleaning, priming, and moisture management before membrane application.
• Joints and Terminations: Best practices for treating joints (reinforced, non-reinforced, expansion, and seismic) are covered, as well as correct termination details at walls, drains, penetrations, and transitions to prevent leaks.
• Maintenance and Repair: Regular inspection, repair, rehabilitation, and eventual replacement practices are outlined to extend the life and effectiveness of the waterproofing system.

Applications

This ASTM standard is essential for:

• Rooftop Plazas and Parking Decks: Where an exposed membrane must both waterproof the structure and withstand continuous pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
• Balconies and Walkways: Especially in high-rise residential or commercial buildings, where integrated waterproofing and durability are critical.
• Industrial Platforms and Equipment Areas: Requiring robust resistance against mechanical wear, moisture ingress, and chemical exposure.
• Building Decks Above Occupied Spaces: Where preventing water penetration is crucial to avoid damage to interiors or sensitive equipment.
• Integration with Drainage and Joint Systems: Ensuring the overall performance of the deck and waterproofing membrane in real-world conditions.

Related Standards

This guide references several related ASTM specifications and industry documents, for which familiarity is beneficial:

• ASTM C957/C957M: Specification for the high-solids content, cold liquid-applied elastomeric waterproofing membranes with integral wearing surfaces.
• ASTM C33/C33M, C150/C150M, C330/C330M, C332: For concrete aggregates and cement types suited for deck substrates.
• ASTM C920, C962, C1193: Standards guiding the selection and use of elastomeric joint sealants and details for joint preparation.
• ACI 301: Specifications for structural concrete as a substrate.
• SSPC Standards: For cleaning and preparing steel surfaces.
• APA PS 1: Construction and industrial plywood standards.

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM C1127/C1127M-15(2023) enables project teams to select appropriate waterproofing membrane systems with confidence, ensuring:

• Increased Durability: Through detailed installation and maintenance practices, reducing the risk of leaks and structural deterioration.
• Effective Waterproofing: Providing robust protection against water intrusion in high-traffic, exposed deck environments.
• Regulatory Compliance: Aligning with internationally recognized standardization principles and supporting clear contract documentation between purchasers and suppliers.
• Long-Term Performance: Promoting integrated, well-coordinated waterproofing systems that extend service life and reduce repair costs.

Leveraging these guidelines ensures reliable, high-performance deck waterproofing solutions for a wide range of commercial and industrial building applications.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C1127/C1127M − 15 (Reapproved 2023)
Standard Guide for
Use of High Solids Content, Cold Liquid-Applied
Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane with an Integral
Wearing Surface
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1127/C1127M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This guide describes the design and installation of cold 2.1 ASTM Standards:
liquid-applied elastomeric waterproofing membrane systems C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
that have an integral wearing surface. The cold liquid-applied C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
elastomeric waterproofing membrane (membrane) to which C330/C330M Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for
this guide refers is specified in Specification C957/C957M. Structural Concrete
C332 Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for Insulat-
1.2 Concrete Slab-on-Grade—Waterproofing the upper sur-
ing Concrete
face of a concrete slab-on-grade presents special problems due
C717 Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
to the possibility of negative hydrostatic pressure causing loss
C755 Practice for Selection of Water Vapor Retarders for
of bond to the substrate. Consideration of these problems is
Thermal Insulation
beyond the scope of this guide. Consult the membrane manu-
C920 Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants
facturer for recommendations when this situation exists.
C957/C957M Specification for High-Solids Content, Cold
1.3 The committee having jurisdiction for this guide is not
Liquid-Applied Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane
aware of any similar ISO standard.
With Integral Wearing Surface
C962 Standards Guide for Use of Elastomeric Joint Sealants
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in (Withdrawn 1992)
C1193 Guide for Use of Joint Sealants
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
values from the two systems may result in nonconformance Fluids
D1079 Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
with the standard.
D1752 Specification for Preformed Sponge Rubber, Cork,
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
and Recycled PVC Expansion Joint Fillers for Concrete
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Paving and Structural Construction
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
D2628 Specification for Preformed Polychloroprene Elasto-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
meric Joint Seals for Concrete Pavements
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
2.2 U.S. Department of Commerce Standard:
For specific hazard statements, see 15.4.
Product Standard PS 1-74 Construction and Industrial Ply-
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
wood
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
2.3 American Concrete Institute (ACI) Standard:
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
301-84 (1985) Specification for Structural Concrete for
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Buildings
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D08 on Roofing and the ASTM website.
Waterproofing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D08.25 on Liquid The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
Applied Polymeric Materials Used for Roofing and Waterproofing Membranes that www.astm.org.
are Directly Exposed to the Weather. Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2023. Published September 2023. Originally Bureau Dr., Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, http://www.nist.gov.
approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as C1127/C1127M – 15. Available from American Concrete Institute (ACI), P.O. Box 9094, Farmington
DOI: 10.1520/C1127_C1127M-15R23. Hills, MI 48333-9094, http://www.concrete.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1127/C1127M − 15 (2023)
2.4 Steel Structures Painting Council (SSPC) Standards: 4. Significance and Use
Steel Structures Painting Manual, Systems and Specifica-
4.1 This guide is divided into two sections which provide
tions:
design and specification guidelines for the use of a cold
Specification SSPC SP-2 Wire Brush Cleaning
liquid-applied elastomeric membrane with integral wearing
Specification SSPC SP-6 Commercial Blast Cleaning
surface for waterproofing building decks in building areas to be
2.5 American Plywood Association (APA) Standard:
occupied by personnel, vehicles, or equipment.
APA Plywood Construction Guide
4.2 The intent of Sections 5 – 11, Design Considerations, is
to provide information and design guidelines where a water-
3. Terminology
proofing membrane with integral wearing surface is to be used.
3.1 Definitions—Refer to Terminology D1079.
The intent of the remaining sections is to provide minimum
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
guide specifications for the use of the purchaser and the seller
3.2.1 cold-applied—capable of being applied without heat-
in contract documents.
ing as contrasted to hot-applied.
4.3 Where the state of the art is such that criteria for a
3.2.1.1 Discussion—Cold-applied products are furnished in
particular condition is not as yet firmly established or has
a liquid state, whereas hot-applied products are furnished as
numerous variables that require consideration, reference is
solids that must be heated to liquefy them.
made to the applicable portion of Sections 5 – 11 that covers
3.2.2 curing time—the period between application and the
the particular area of concern. Section 16 describes the repair,
time when the material attains its intended physical properties.
rehabilitation, and replacement of the membrane.
3.2.3 deflection—the deviation of a structural element from
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
its original shape or plane due to physical loading, temperature
gradients, or rotation of its support.
5. General
3.2.4 finish—the exposed top surface of the plaza deck
5.1 Major Components, Subsystems, and Features—Design
system, or traffic or wearing surface.
of plaza deck waterproofing includes consideration of several
3.2.5 floated finish—a concrete finish provided by consoli-
subsystems, with their material components and interrelation-
dating and leveling the concrete with only a power-driven or
ships. The specific project requirements, types of substrates
hand float, or both.
exposed to weather, difference in climatic conditions to which
3.2.5.1 Discussion—A floated finish is more coarse than a
the deck is exposed, and interior environmental requirements
troweled finish. For specifications, see ACI Specification 301.
of the occupied space are major determinants in the selection of
components. Information needed to design the deck subsys-
3.2.6 freeze-thaw cycle—the freezing and subsequent thaw-
ing of a material. tems includes temperature extremes of the inner and outer
surfaces, precipitation rates, solar exposure, prevailing wind
3.2.7 grout—concrete containing no coarse aggregate; a thin
direction, the pattern and reflectivity of adjacent structures,
mortar.
anticipated amount and intensity of vibration resulting from
3.2.8 preparatory coat—an initial coat of the liquid-applied
function or adjacent occupancies, and design live loads.
membrane which is applied at cracks, joints, or terminal points
5.2 Major Subsystems—The major subsystems to be consid-
to provide reinforcement to the membrane at these critical
ered in waterproofing a building deck are the structural
areas.
building deck or substrate to be waterproofed, deck supports,
3.2.9 structural slab—a horizontal, supporting, cast-in-
traffic-bearing waterproofing membrane, drainage, membrane
place concrete building deck.
terminations, and joint systems (see Fig. 1). The design
3.2.10 traffıc surface—a surface exposed to traffic, either
guidelines, as well as the details, components, and drawings
pedestrian or vehicular.
which follow, illustrate a principle but are not necessarily the
only solutions for a diversity of environments.
3.2.11 troweled finish—a concrete finish provided by
smoothing the surface with power-driven or hand trowels, or
5.3 Compatibility—Components and contiguous elements
both, after the float finishing operation.
should be compatible and coordinated to form a totally
3.2.11.1 Discussion—A troweled finish is smoother than the
integrated waterproofing system.
floated finish. For specifications, see ACI Specification 301.
3.2.12 wearing surface—see traffıc surface.
3.2.13 wet-film thickness—the thickness of a liquid coating
as it is applied.
3.2.14 wet-film gauge—a gauge for measuring the thickness
of a wet film.
Available from Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC), 40 24th St., 6th Floor,
FIG. 1 Basic Components of Cold-Applied Elastomeric
Pittsburgh, PA 15222-4656, http://www.sspc.org.
Available from American Plywood Assoc. (Forest Industries), P.O. Box 11700, Waterproofing Membrane with Integral Wearing Course
Tacoma, WA 98411. (see 5.2 and 5.4)
C1127/C1127M − 15 (2023)
5.4 Waterproofing Membrane—The waterproofing mem- 6.3 Aggregates and Moisture Content—Concrete is a com-
brane may be composed of several components, such as plex mixture of portland cement, water, aggregates and,
substrate primer(s), base coat(s), top coat(s), and antiskid optionally, admixtures. The portland cement used should be in
aggregate(s), and each material may be single or multi- conformance with Specification C150/C150M, Type I or III.
(Types II, IV, and V are rarely, if ever, used in building deck
component. The thickness of each coat, the use of primers, as
well as the type and amount of aggregates needed for each construction.) Aggregates generally available for use in con-
crete are in conformance with Specifications C33/C33M,
particular application, vary according to the exposure condi-
tions. Areas of high stress and wear, such as sharp turn radii C330/C330M, and C332. The moisture content of the cured
concrete, which is related to the type of aggregate used, can
and areas with heavy acceleration and braking from vehicular
affect the adhesion of the waterproofing membrane to the
traffic, require a greater application thickness of the membrane
substrate. With an excessively high moisture content, moisture
and aggregate than do areas of lower stress. The membrane
may condense at the interface of the membrane and concrete,
system must be applied at a thickness great enough to
and cause membrane delamination. This is particularly so if the
withstand the conditions of use. The actual thickness of each
top surface is cooler than the concrete below. Lower moisture
coat required for a particular application and the use of
contents are achieved with the use of dense stone aggregates
aggregate in top coats should be established between the
conforming to Specification C33/C33M, which generally pro-
purchaser and the seller. The purchaser should specify that the
vides structural concrete with a 3 to 5 % moisture content when
minimum membrane or film thickness meets or exceeds the
cured. Aggregates conforming to Specification C330/C330M
requirements for the particular application and substrate.
will provide lightweight structural concrete generally having a
5.5 Membrane Wear—The liquid-applied elastomeric mem-
5 to 20 % moisture content when cured. Aggregates conform-
brane forms the wearing surface of the building deck and
ing to Specification C332 provide lightweight insulating
therefore can be expected to show wear and deterioration. The
concrete, generally having a relatively low compressive
installed membrane system requires maintenance to provide
strength and capable of having over 20 % moisture content
maximum life and waterproofing protection. A program of
when cured. The concrete used for the deck substrate should
regularly scheduled inspections (that is, annual, semi-annual,
have a maximum moisture content of 8 % when cured and a
3 3
or quarterly) shall be established to detect problems before
minimum density of 1760 kg/m [110 lb/ft ]. Hence, a limited
major damage occurs to the membrane. Small areas of high
number of lightweight aggregates (Specification C330/
wear (such as a sharp turn in a parking deck) or areas subjected
C330M) may be used, and no lightweight insulating aggregates
to abuse can and should be repaired. If the top coat or wearing
(Specification C332) shall be used.
surface has begun to deteriorate, the wearing surface (including
6.4 Admixtures, Additives, and Cement/Concrete
aggregate) can be rehabilitated. Should the membrane system
Modifiers—Admixtures, additives, and modifiers serve many
become worn to the point where large areas of the deck
functions in mixing, forming, and curing concrete, such as to
substrate are visible, the membrane system probably will have
retard or accelerate the cure rate; reduce the water content
to be completely replaced and structural repairs may be
required; entrain air; increase strength; create or improve the
required. Loss of watertight integrity should not be permitted
ability of the concrete to bond to existing, cured concrete;
as corrosion of reinforcing steel can occur, causing spalling and
permit thin topping overlayers; and improve workability. Some
thereby jeopardizing the structural integrity of the deck.
admixtures and modifiers (particularly polymeric, latex, or
other organic/chemical based materials) may coat the concrete
6. Cast-in-Place Concrete
particles and reduce the ability of the waterproofing membrane
6.1 General—The concrete substrate or building deck re-
to bond to the concrete. The membrane manufacturer should be
ferred to in this guide is reinforced, cast-in-place structural
consulted if the concrete used for the deck contains any
concrete, which should conform to all requirements of ACI
admixtures, additives, or modifiers in order to determine the
Specification 301.
compatibility of the membrane with the concrete.
6.2 Strength—The strength of concrete is an important 6.5 Underside Metal Liner and Coating—The underside of
factor since liquid-applied elastomeric membranes have a the concrete deck should not be impervious to water, but rather
much higher modulus and tensile strength than a typical should permit the free evaporation of water from the concrete.
building sealant or a waterproofing membrane normally used If an underside metal liner, used as a form or composite
with a separate wearing course. (For example, the 100 % structural component, does not permit moisture to evaporate,
(tensile) modulus value may range up to 34.47 MPa [5000 water vapor may be trapped between the membrane and the
psi].) The concrete must have sufficient strength to avoid support and condense at the membrane-concrete interface. The
rupture at the bond line of the membrane when the membrane condensate can destroy or prevent the adhesive bond of the
is under tensile or shear stress. The strength of concrete is also membrane to the concrete. Adequate drying of residual mois-
a factor to be considered insofar as it relates to finish, bond ture in concrete poured over permanent metal liners requires a
strength, and continuing integrity (absence of cracks and other much longer period (possibly years) to achieve similar mois-
defects that could affect the integrity of the membrane after ture content as is achieved with slabs stripped of forming.
installation). Thus, the concrete should have a minimum Uniformly spaced perforations in permanent metal liners may
compressive strength of 20.68 MPa [3000 psi] when the provide a solution to the vapor barrier problem, but as yet there
membrane is applied. are no definite data on the requirements for the size and spacing
C1127/C1127M − 15 (2023)
of the perforations. Subsequent coating which might inhibit 6.8.3 Chemical Curing—Liquid or chemical curing com-
moisture vapor transmission through the vents should be pounds should not be used unless approved by the manufac-
avoided. Coating the underside of a stripped concrete deck
turer of the liquid-applied membrane, as the material may
with a coating that inhibits vapor transmissions should also be interfere with the bond of the membrane to the structural slab.
avoided. The minimum perm rating permissible for such a
6.9 Dryness—Membrane manufacturers’ requirements for
coating to be acceptable is 1 metric perm [1.52 U.S. perms].
substrate dryness vary from being visibly dry to having a
6.5.1 Perforations—Perforated metal liners have different
specific maximum moisture content as measured by a moisture
structural characteristics and properties than nonperforated
meter. Since there is a lack of unanimity in this regard, it is
material. These differences must be recognized and accommo-
necessary to meet the manufacturer’s requirements for the
dated in the design and use of these materials.
particular membrane being applied.
6.6 Slope for Drainage—Drainage at the membrane level is
6.10 Joints—Joints in a structural concrete slab are herein
important. Since the waterproofing membrane is placed di-
referred to as reinforced joints, nonreinforced joints, and
rectly on the concrete slab, a monolithic concrete substrate
expansion joints, as follows:
slope of a minimum 11 mm/m [ ⁄8 in./ft] should be maintained.
6.10.1 Reinforced Joints—Reinforced joints consist of hair-
Slope is best achieved with a monolithic pour, as compared
line cracks, cold joints, construction joints, and control joints
with a separate concrete fill. The fill presents the potential of
held together with reinforcing steel bars or wire fabric. These
additional cracks and provides a cleavage plane between the fill
are considered static joints with little or no movement antici-
and the structural slab. The cleavage plane complicates the
pated because the slab reinforcement is continuous across the
detection of leakage in the event that water penetrates the
joint.
membrane at a crack in the fill and travels along the separation
until reaching a crack in the structural slab.
6.10.2 Nonreinforced Joints—Nonreinforced joints consist
of cracks or butted construction joints and isolation joints not
6.7 Finish—The structural slab should have a finish that
held together with reinforcing steel bars or wire fabric. These
facilitates proper application of the liquid-applied membrane.
joints are generally considered by the designer of the structural
The surface should be of sufficiently rough texture to provide
system as nonmoving or static joints. However, they should be
a mechanical bond for the membrane, but not so rough as to
considered as capable of having some movement, the magni-
preclude achieving continuity of the membrane of the specified
tude of which is difficult to predict.
thickness across the surface. As a minimum, ACI Specifica-
6.10.3 Expansion and Seismic Joints:
tion 301 floated finish is required with ACI Specification 301
troweled finish preferred, deleting the final trowelling. Follow
6.10.3.1 Expansion joints, as differentiated from control
the requirements of the membrane manufacturer as to the
joints, are designed to accommodate movement in more than
required finish.
one direction, are an integral part of the building structural
6.7.1 Vertical Substrate—The vertical surface to which the system, and are to be carried through the entire structure.
Expansion joints are incorporated in the structural frame to
waterproofing membrane is adhered should have a sound,
smooth finish, dry and free from cracks and loose materials, as reduce internal stresses caused by wide temperature ranges, or
differential movement, or both, between structural elements, as
stated for the horizontal or deck substrate.
might be the case in large adjoining heated and unheated
6.8 Curing—Curing of the structural slab is necessary to
spaces; where there are different foundation settlement condi-
provide a sound concrete surface and obtain the quality of
tions between adjacent elements; or where movements between
concrete required. Curing is a chemical reaction accomplished
high and low attached structures are anticipated.
with moisture and should not be misconstrued as drying. The
6.10.3.2 Seismic joints are a special case in which the joints
concrete should be cured a minimum of seven days and aged a
are generally quite large and are designed to limit damage to
minimum of 28 days, including curing time, before applying
the structural frame during earthquakes.
the liquid-applied membrane. The more commonly known
6.10.3.3 Expansion and seismic joints are best located at the
curing methods are moist curing, impermeable sheet curing,
and chemical curing. high points of contoured substrates to deflect water away from
the joint. For expansion joints designed for thermal movement
6.8.1 Moist Curing—Moist curing is achieved by keeping
only, the movement is expected to be only in the horizontal
the surfaces continuously wet by covering them with burlap
plane. Seismic joints are designed to accommodate both
saturated with water and kept wet by spraying or hosing. The
vertical and horizontal movement. In detailing expansion joints
covering material should be placed in a manner that provides
to achieve watertightness, the amount of movement anticipated
complete surface coverage, with joints lapped a minimum of
should be carefully determined using a reasonable factor of
75 mm [3 in.].
safety. The opening size and configuration should then be
6.8.2 Sheet Curing—Sheet curing is accomplished with a
related to the capability of the joint seal materials so as to
sheet vapor barrier, which reduces the loss of water from the
accommodate the anticipated movement.
concrete and moistens the surface of the concrete by
6.10.4 Joint Design Using Cold, Liquid-Applied Elasto-
condensation, thus preventing the surface from drying while
curing. Laps of sheets covering the slab should not be less than meric Joint Sealants—The guidelines provided in Guide C962
should be followed for the joint size and configuration needed
5 cm [2 in.] and should be sealed or weighted. (See Practice
C755.) to accommodate the anticipated joint movement. Joint
C1127/C1127M − 15 (2023)
preparation, backup material requirements, and sealant type 8. Plywood Substrate
should also conform to the requirements detailed in Guide
8.1 General—Plywood decks are normally used only in
C962.
pedestrian applications, such as walkways and balconies,
6.10.5 Joint Design Using Compression Seals—
where light to moderate loads are expected.
Compression seals are designed to be continuously under
8.2 Grade—All plywood should be identified as conforming
compression through the entire joint movement range. There
to PS 1 for construction and industrial plywood by the grade,
are two main types of joint designs: (1) those which use a steel
angle cap at the face and surface of the joint, and (2) those trademarks of the American Plywood Association, or equiva-
lent. For maximum smoothness, EXT Type APA, Grade A-C
which use a curve or bevel in the concrete at the top edge of the
should be used. The “A” side should be positioned to receive
joint face. The use of a beveled or curved face on the concrete
the coating.
is not recommended because of the difficulty of maintaining a
uniform coating of the liquid-applied membrane on a curved or
8.3 Placement—Select plywood thickness and attachment
beveled surface, the possible compatibility problems between
methods as indicated in the APA Plywood Construction Guide
the membrane and the compression seal and its lubricant/
and other APA literature, using only nonrusting screw, spiral, or
adhesive, and water ponding in the recessed surface of the
coated nail-type fasteners. An option would be to recess or
compression seal. Since there is no uniform recommended
1 1
countersink fasteners ⁄8 to ⁄4 in. and seal with a compatible
practice for the design and installation of compression seal
sealant. Suitable edge support to prevent differential deflection
expansion joints, the compression seal manufacturer should be
between panels should be provided. Panel edges should be
contacted for joint design and installation guidelines. All
tongue and groove or supported on solid blocking. Space
compression seal materials used should meet the requirements
1 3
panels 3 to 5 mm [ ⁄8 to ⁄16 in.] at panel ends. The space
of Specification D2628.
directly below the plywood should be vented to the exterior
and below the vented space should be a vapor barrier over
7. Precast Concrete Decks
occupied space or damp areas to maintain as dry a condition as
7.1 General—The application of liquid-applied elastomeric possible for the plywood and its supports.
membranes directly to structural precast concrete decks is not
8.4 Finish—The finish of the plywood should be consistent
recommended. Such decks, which consist of numerous indi-
with the grade according to PS 1.
vidual units or panels, can have problems in many areas.
Among these problems are unsuitable surface finish of the 8.5 Joint Treatment:
individual panels, maintenance of uniformity in level and
8.5.1 Panel Spacing Joints—Joints between plywood panels
proper slope during installation, uniform joint spacing, and
should be filled flush with a sealant compatible with the coating
installation, coverage, and protection of the shear connectors.
system, as recommended by the coating manufacturer. Prior to
The individual planks are subject to differential movement
installing the sealant, the joints should be dry and swept or
(vertically and horizontally) at the panel joint, which could
blown clean of dust, dirt, and debris.
overstress a membrane and lead to premature failure if the
8.5.2 Expansion Joints—Expansion joints are not necessary
membrane was carried across the joint. A poured-in-place,
in plywood decks unless required because of other factors in
reinforced concrete topping slab applied over a precast con-
the building construction. If such joints exist in the building
crete deck may be a suitable substrate for the liquid-applied
structure, the membrane should be terminated on either side of
membrane under certain conditions. It can provide the finish
the joint, but in such a manner as to provide a watertight seal
and slope uniformity necessary for proper drainage and geom-
at the joint interface.
etry at control joints. Shear connectors should be used to limit
movement at joints (except at expansion joints). The topping
9. Incidental Substrates
slab should be bonded to the precast units and the control joints
9.1 General—All incidental substrates such as metal,
centered over the precast unit joints.
plastic, and coated materials should be cast-in-place or other-
7.2 Topping Slab—The topping slab should be of a mini-
wise firmly anchored to prevent any horizontal shear of the
mum thickness to meet the design requirements and should
membrane. Joints at edges of any substrate that is not firmly
conform to the requirements of 6.1 – 6.4.
anchored should be treated as expansion joints terminating on
7.2.1 Topping Slab Reinforcement—The topping slab should
the deck substrate.
be reinforced with metal mesh or bars to reduce the possibility
9.2 Patching, Leveling, and Topping Compounds—
of crack growth and to control the differential movement
Patching, leveling, and topping compounds are used to repair
(horizontal and vertical shear) in the control joints.
concrete decks and provide proper slope and finish to the deck.
7.3 Control Joints—A control joint should be placed above
Some compounds, particularly those containing polymeric,
each junction where two precast units are butted together. The
latex, or other organic chemical materials, may have poor
joint should be a minimum of 13 mm [ ⁄2 in.] wide and 25 mm
adhesion with the membrane. The membrane manufacturer
[1 in.] deep.
should be consulted to determine the compatibility of these
7.4 Topping Slab Treatment—The topping slab should con- compounds with the membrane. Patching, leveling, and top-
form to the requirements of Section 6 in all respects of slope, ping compounds, when used, must be well cured and meet the
drainage, finish, curing, dryness, and joint design. dryness tests in 6.3 and 6.9.
C1127/C1127M − 15 (2023)
10. Membrane sweeping. Contamination from oil or similar materials should
be removed from the substrate. If an air blast is used, caution
10.1 General—A liquid-applied waterproofing membrane
should be taken to prevent oil or water from the air compressor
has the capability of adhering to the substrate and should be
from getting into the air line and contaminating the substrates.
applied so as to take optimum advantage of this inherent
10.2.6 Primers—When required by the membrane
characteristic. Without this adhesion, a waterproofing mem-
manufacturer, each substrate should be primed with the primer
brane with integral wearing surface could be torn loose with
specified by the membrane manufacturer for that substrate
even the lightest traffic, leading rapidly to complete membrane
(steel, iron, brass, aluminum, metal, wood, concrete, plastic,
failure. Water vapor that condenses at the membrane-concrete
coating, etc.) and allowed to dry as specified.
interface, or water diffusing through the membrane, can act at
the interface to destroy the adhesion of the membrane to the 10.3 Application—The membrane should be applied under
concrete.
dry, frost-free conditions. The frost-free condition should exist
10.1.1 The detection of leakage in a building deck water- throughout the depth of the concrete slab, and not simply on
proofing system could be a significant problem when the
the surface. Membrane manufacturers’ requirements for sub-
waterproofing membrane is not bonded to the structural slab. strate dryness are described in 6.9. Excessive moisture in the
Water penetrating an unbonded membrane could migrate substrate (see 6.3 and 6.5) or moisture on the surface (see 6.9)
laterally under the membrane until reaching a crack or defect in (as from frost or rain) may result in a membrane that has an
the structural slab and then leak through to the space below. improper cure with excessive gas pockets being formed, has
Leakage through the slab, therefore, would not necessarily little or no adhesion to the substrate, and may give poor
indicate the location of the water entry in the membrane above. service. In case rain or snow interrupts the application after at
10.1.2 Systems that meet the requirements of Specification least one coat of material has been applied, the membrane
C957/C957M could be expected to bridge reinforced hairline manufacturer’s directions should be followed pertaining to any
cracks that develop after the undersurface is laid. The systems necessary treatment of the cured, already applied material
are not designed to bridge dynamic, unreinforced cracks that before continuing the application process.
develop under the membrane.
10.4 Terminal Conditions—Four locations where a liquid-
10.2 Surface Preparation:
applied membrane is normally terminated or interrupted are on
10.2.1 Concrete Surface Preparation—Concrete surfaces walls, at drains, at penetrations, and at expansion joints. The
important consideration at terminal conditions is to prevent
should be prepared according to the membrane manufacturer’s
recommendations to remove laitance and other unwanted water from penetrating the substrate or behind the membrane at
its edge.
matter. Such preparation may include either an acid etch or
mechanical abrasion (such as sand blast, water blast, 10.4.1 Termination on Walls or Other Vertical Surfaces—
scarifying, or grinding) or a combination of mechanical abra-
The membrane should be turned up at vertical surfaces to
sion followed by an acid etch. Note the chloride ions that result eliminate the possibility of ponded surface water penetrating
when muratic (hydrochloric) acid is used, as the acid may
the wall above the membrane and running down behind it into
contribute to chloride-ion induced corrosion of the reinforcing the building. The minimum safe height of such a termination is
steel. The concrete must be thoroughly rinsed and allowed to
dictated by the opportunity for conditions such as ponding and
dry before starting any preparatory work. drifting snow that may be presented by the building’s geometry
10.2.2 Plywood Surface Preparation—The wood surface and environment. The membrane may be continued farther up
should be cleaned of all dirt, dust, and debris by sweeping or the wall for aesthetic reasons. The aggregate is rarely continued
by an air blast. All contaminants should be removed. Washing up the wall. The possibility of water entering through joints or
the plywood surface with detergent and water is not recom- cracks in the surface of the wall behind the coated surface must
mended. The absorbed moisture can cause poor adhesion and be examined. Water entering behind the coated surface is held
form bubbles and blisters if the membrane is applied to a moist by the membrane and consequently acts to destroy the adhesive
deck, and any detergent film remaining on the deck may cause bond between the membrane and the wall. Where this possi-
poor adhesion of the membrane. bility exists (as determined by the building’s geometry and
10.2.3 Metal Surface Preparation—Remove any weld slag, environment), waterproof the opposite surface or devise a way
flux, and burrs and grind welds smooth. Clean to a bright metal for the water to get out without getting under the deck coating
finish with power wire brush in accordance with SSPC SP 2, or membrane.
preferably sand blast to an SSPC SP-6 finish. Do not burnish 10.4.1.1 Deck to Vertical Surface Dynamic Joints—Any
the substrate. Coat with a primer or an anticorrosion finish junction of the horizontal deck and a vertical surface that is
followed by a primer as soon as possible. The metal should be capable of movement greater than 3.2 mm [0.125 in.] in any
coated before any rust bloom forms. direction should be treated as an expansion joint, in accordance
10.2.4 Plastics, Paints, and Other Coatings—Wipe the sub- with 6.10.3. Junctions that move less than 3.2 mm [0.125 in.]
strate with the solvent or cleaning solution specified by the should be treated in accordance with 14.6.1.
membrane manufacturer until all contamination has been 10.4.2 Termination at Drains—Drains should be designed
removed. Apply the primer according to the manufacturer’s
with a 50 mm [2 in.] wide (minimum) flange as an integral part.
requirements. The drain should be cast in the slab when the deck is placed
10.2.5 Cleaning Substrates—All dust, dirt, and any type of with the top of the flange set flush with or slightly below the
contamination should be removed by air blast, vacuuming, or surface of the slab. The wide flange provides a termination
C1127/C1127M − 15 (2023)
point for the liquid-applied membrane without endangering the
function of the membrane or the drain.
10.4.3 Termination at Penetrations—Penetrations or protru-
sions into or through the surface by such items as conduits or
service pipes create critical problems and should be avoided
wherever possible. Such critical locations are best treated by
casting a pipe sleeve into the structural slab (see Fig. 2). Such
a sleeve may be cast in the deck during the main pour, or may
be boxed out and cast at a later date.
10.4.3.1 A second method involves cutting a core hole in the
deck and putting a sleeve having a wide flange into the hole. It
FIG. 3 Termination at a Core-Drilled Sleeve Having a Wide Flange
(see 10.4.3, 14.6.3.3, and 14.6.3.4)
is more difficult to maintain a waterproof seal using this second
type of sleeve and is the least preferred method (see Fig. 3).
10.4.4 Treatment at Joints—Joints in the structural slab
should be treated as follows, depending on whether they are
reinforced joints, nonreinforced joints, or expansion joints:
10.4.4.1 Treatment of Reinforced Joints or Cracks—Fig. 4
indicates one recommended treatment of reinforced concrete
joints in the structural slab. The designer should realize that the
elongation capacity of this type of detail is quite limited and
implicitly relies on the membrane’s crack-bridging ability to
withstand the strains imposed by the opening of cracks and
reinforced joints. Alternatively, prevent the membrane from
(a) Hairline Crack Treatment
adhering to the substrate for a finite width centered on the joint
or crack by employing a properly designed compatible bond-
breaker tape.
10.4.4.2 Treatment at Nonreinforced Joints—Nonreinforced
joints that are in reality nonmoving could be treated in the same
manner as reinforced joints. However, since the joints are not
held together with reinforcing steel, some movement, however
slight, should be anticipated and provided for since the
liquid-applied membrane has limited ability to take movement.
Nonreinforced joints could open due to such factors as
(b) Treatment of Cracks Wider than 1.6 mm [0.063 in.]
shrinkage, creep, and thermal contraction. Fig. 5 shows a
nonreinforced butted joint that is capable of expanding 3.2 mm
FIG. 4 Treatment of Reinforced Cracks and Joints
(see 10.4.4.1, 14.5.1, and 14.5.2)
[ ⁄8 in.], the minimum that should be provided for when using
a sealant capable of 625 % movement. The minimum sealant
width should be correspondingly wider with a sealant having
lesser movement capability. If the designer of the structural
system feels that greater movement than 3.2 mm [ ⁄8 in.] could
occur in such joints, they should be treated as expansion joints.
10.4.4.3 Treatment of Expansion Joints—Expansion joints
are designed to accommodate a predetermined amount of
movement. Such movement could be due to thermal change,
shrinkage, creep, deflection, or other factors and combinations
FIG. 5 Treatment of Nonreinforced Cracks and Joints
(see 10.4.4.2 and 14.5.3)
of factors. Because waterproofing membranes with integral
wearing surfaces generally have limited elongation capacity,
they should not be continued over an expansion joint. Rather,
the membrane should terminate on either side of the expansion
joint. Thus, the design of the expansion joint can be made
separate from the design of the waterproofing membrane
except that the base coat or top coat of the membrane must be
applied over any metal flashing or flanges used in the design of
the expansion joint. A gutter system may be provided under the
FIG. 2 Termination at Cast-in-Place Sleeve (Protrusion Installed)
(see 10.4.3, 14.6.3.1, 14.6.3.2, and 14.6.3.4) expansion joint for a secondary line of defense against leakage.
C1127/C1127M − 15 (2023)
11. Drainage System 12.2 Marking and Shipping—The liquid-applied membrane
materials shall be delivered undamaged to the project site in
11.1 General—Drainage should be considered as a total
original, sealed containers, clearly identified as to contents, the
system with particular emphasis on the rate of flow into the
manufacturer’s name, shelf life, and precautions on flamma-
drain.
bility and toxicity. The manufacturer’s written instructions for
11.2 Requirements for Drainage at Membrane Level—It is
application procedures shall be available. Dented pails are
essential that water be removed from the membrane level for acceptable as long as the seal is unbroken and the membrane
the following reasons:
material within is not damaged.
11.2.1 To avoid building up a pressure head against the
12.3 Handling and Storage—Proper handling, storage, and
membrane and particularly against the more vulnerable splices
protection of waterproofing materials are essential. Since some
and joints in the system.
waterproofing materials are susceptible to moisture damage
11.2.2 To avoid freeze-thaw cycling of trapped water, which
and absorption, optimum storage and protection is in a water-
could disrupt the wearing course.
tight enclosure. When job conditions make this unrealistic,
11.2.3 To minimize the deleterious effect prolonged, und- materials shall, as a minimum, be stored off the ground or deck
rained water could have on the membrane, and particularly on on pallets and covered above and on all sides and ends with
the adhesion of the membrane to the substrate. breathable-type canvas tarpaulins. Plastic sheets shall not be
used as they permit condensation build-up under them. Mate-
11.3 Recommendations for Drainage of Membrane Level:
rials shall be stored and used in accordance with the manufac-
11.3.1 Slope the substrate under the membrane a minimum
turer’s specifications.
of 11 mm/m [ ⁄8 in./ft].
12.4 Safety—Where hazardous materials are involved, rigid
11.3.2 Slope the substrate under the membrane so as to
adherence to the special precautions of the manufacturer, as
drain away from expansion joints and walls.
modified by local, state, and federal authorities, shall be
11.3.3 Drains should have an integral flange at least 5 mm
followed.
[2 in.] wide for adherence and bonding with the concrete slab
and also for termination of the liquid-applied membrane, with
13. Materials
sufficient room for an adhesive bond. The flange should be set
13.1 Drains—See analysis in 10.4.2.
level with or just slightly below the substrate surface.
13.2 Pipe Sleeves—See analysis in 10.4.3.
MINIMUM GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
13.3 Membrane—The liquid-applied membrane shall be in
conformance with Specification C957/C957M.
12. Certification, Marking, Shipping, Preservation, and
Safety
13.4 Membrane Primer—Primers, when required or recom-
mended by the manufacturer of the liquid-applied membrane
12.1 Certification:
for optimum performance, shall be as recommended and
12.1.1 When requested, manufacturer’s laboratory certifica-
supplied by the manufacturer of the liquid-applied membrane.
tion attesting that the materials conform to Specification
C957/C957M requirements shall be made available to the 13.5 Aggregate—Aggregate shall be clean and dry, and
purchaser before delivery of materials to the project site. sieve graded. The sieve size range, type, hardness, and quantity
Complete documentation, including a referenced method, the used shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s require-
material specification limits, and typical test results, shall be ments for the particular application.
made available on request. Such certification shall be current
13.6 Top (Color) Coat—The top coat shall be compatible
with results obtained from tests performed no earlier than three
with the base coat and aggregate and as recommended or
years from the award of the contract. A separate certification
supplied by the manufacturer of the liquid-applied base coat.
shall be attached indicating quality control results on the
The top coat color shall contrast in color or hue with the base
shipped material compared to typical values or the range of
coat or aggregate, or both, to ensure application completeness
values of quality control results, and identified by batch or lot
and in-service residual.
numbers.
13.7 Flashing Compound—Flashing compounds, when re-
12.1.2 Independent laboratory certification shall contain
quired or recommended by the manufacturer of the liquid-
complete documentation, including a referenced test method,
applied membrane for optimum performance, shall be as
the material specification limits, and test results. Such certifi-
recommended or supplied by the manufacturer of the liquid-
cation shall be made available before delivery of materials to
applied membrane.
the project site, attesting that the materials conform to the
specification requirements. Such certifications shall be current 13.8 Sealant—Sealant for use in nonreinforced butted joints
with results obtained from tests performed n
...