Whether it's TUFF-N-DRI™ Basement Waterproofing System (TUFF-N-DRI), or WATCHDOG WATERPROOFING™ brands from Tremco Barrier Solutions, the result is an environmentally-responsible package of top-quality basement waterproofing products.

Their are so many reasons to use Tremco Barrier Solutions to treat basements in new construction. When you take the time to waterproof a basement, not just dampproof it, you add value to the home without a large increase in costs. All Tremco Barrier Solutions products are water-based, non-flammable, and do not contain Vilatile Organic Compounds (VOC's).

Waterproofing Excels
Waterproofing provides a long-term shield against water penetration. The term "waterproofing" includes a range of alternatives, but each dramatically outperforms the dampproofing method. Dampproofing provides some measure of water protection to basements by applying a thin layer of unmodified asphalt to the outer walls of a home's foundation.

But thats not enough, the asphalt is typically only 10 mils thick when cured and is not created to protect basement or aven to repell water.

Home builders now have a number of options from Tremco Barrier Solutions, the leading provider of foundation waterproofing systems. Those include:

Best: The best waterproofing protection comes with a the selection of Tremco Barrier Solutions' TUFF-N-DRI brand. TUFF-N-DRI is a unique system that can be used on either block or poured concrete foundations. With TUFF-N-DRI, the polymer-modified asphalt membrane is sprayed on and a high-quality ridged foundation board is applied over the membrane to protect the channel of water to a drainage system away from the foundation. The new foundation board also insulates basement walls to make the space inside more comfortable and energy efficient. It is backed by a 30-year transferable warranty.

Better: Another level of protection is the WATCHDOG WATERPROOFING™ product line. The WATCHDOG + Armor™ option provides a resilient membrane engineered for strength and flexibility. This tough, specially-formulated membrane protects against backfill damage around the foundation and also provides additional protection against water penetration. WATCHDOG + Armor is backed by a 10-year transferable warranty.

Good: The most affordable WATCHDOG option features the WATCHDOG WATERPROOFING™ membrane, which is spray applied to seamlessly bridge foundation settling cracks. This membrane is made of an exclusive polymer-enhanced asphalt and remains elastic at low temperatures to provide year-round resistance. WATCHDOG provide a 5-year transferable warranty and is still far superior to traditional dampproofing.

Surface Preparation
The wall surface should be smooth, monolithic and clean. Remove loose aggregate, dust, mud or sharp protrusions from the wall. On poured concrete walls, remove all wall ties - both inside and out. Repair all substantial voids - including large tie holes, cracks and honeycombs larger than your fist - with an asphalt-based mastic or non-shrinking grout.

System Application
WATCHDOG + Energy's waterproofing membrane is sprayed evenly over the entire foundation wall. The membrane can be applied when ambient temperatures are as low as 20°F, and on damp or green concrete. However, the membrane must not be applied over standing water, a water film, ice or snow. On poured concrete basements, WATCHDOG + Energy can be applied as soon as the forms are removed, and on block basements, as soon as the mortar is dry.

Insulation Board Performance
WATCHDOG + Energy's insulation board keeps foundation wall temperatures closer to the air temperature of the basement, which helps reduce condensation. The insulation board also helps reduce the risk of damage due to freeze/thaw cycles, particularly if the insulation board is extended to the sill plate. The compressibility of the insulation board will also absorb moderate soil expansion and help protect the basement wall.