Space Needle
Preserving and renovating the observation deck of the 57-year-old world icon - with minimal interruption to visitors.
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) for waterproofing
Pedestrian and vehicular waterproofing
VIEW PMMA PRODUCTSIntroduction to PMMA
What is PMMA for waterproofing?
One of the most successful commercial product innovations of the last century occurred in the 1930s when polymethyl methacrylate resins, commonly known as PMMA, were first synthesized. Practical applications for the new resin soon followed, but the material was to rigid for use in waterproofing applications - until the 1970s. That's when a PMMA formulation was developed that, once cured, was resilient rather than rigid. Today, Terapro Waterproofing and Surfacing Systems offer all the benefits of PMMA technology in products that meet the performance standards of Siplast.
Advantages of Implementing Siplast PMMA Waterproofing Systems
Waterproofing applications benefit from the numerous advantages PMMA resins hold over other liquid-applied waterproofing systems. Terapro Resins are VOC compliant, and unlike many polyurethane materials, are solvent-free, and isocyanate-free. Terapro Systems provide exceptional:
- Abrasion resistance.
- Weather resistance.
- UV resistance.
- Durability.
Applications of PMMA for waterproofing
In addition to performance advantages, PMMA resins offer a dramatic application advantage over other liquid-applied, layered systems - application speed. PMMA Systems can be applied and trafficked within an 8-hour day, which is a significant financial and practical benefit for hotels, condominiums, and public facilities. PMMA systems are not highly sensitive to atmospheric humidity during application, as are other liquid-applied systems. And importantly, PMMA field membrane and flashing resins can be applied in temperatures as low as 23°F - allowing a much greater window of opportunity than other liquid-applied products such as polyurethane and polyester systems.
Project profiles
The Ford
Waterproofing a historic theater to help remediate water damage resulting from deterioration of materials used in a 1931 reconstruction.
Circle Towers
Deer Point
Harbourside Terrace
Get started with essential components for PMMA waterproofing
Resins alone do not provide all the benefits of PMMA waterproofing. The resin requires peroxide to initiate a chemical reaction, which turns the liquid MMA monomers into a high-performance PMMA membrane. Also, optional reinforcements are embedded between layers of PMMA resins to provide additional resiliency and redundancy.
Reinforcement
A reinforcement is one of the resilient layers encapsulated in liquid-applied waterproofing PMMA systems. Additionally, Terapro Resins can be used in unreinforced applications for unoccupied spaces.
Resins for PMMA waterproofing
Once catalyzed, our PMMA resins start to cure into a flexible, high-performance liquid-applied membranes and flashings. Terapro Base Resin is used in field membrane applications for both pedestrian and vehicular projects. Terapro VTS Resin is the waterproofing and wearing layer for vehicular traffic waterproofing applications of unreinforced Terapro and Terapro VTS Systems, and the wearing layer of reinforced Terapro and Terapro VTS Systems. Terapro Flashing Resin is used with fleece reinforcement for detailing all Terapro Waterproofing and Surfacing applications, like curbs, drains, and penetrations. Each serves a unique purpose in a waterproofing and surfacing system - you may even need a combination of all three.
Terapro Base Resin for horizontal applications
This PMMA resin is used in field membrane applications for both pedestrian and vehicular projects. When reinforced with fleece or fiberglass scrim, the cured membrane creates the waterproofing layer in the system. Additionally, Terapro Base Resin is used in unreinforced applications.
Terapro VTS Resin for horizontal vehicular applications
Terapro VTS Resin is the waterproofing and wearing layer for vehicular traffic waterproofing applications of unreinforced Terapro and Terapro VTS Systems, and the wearing layer of reinforced Terapro and Terapro VTS Systems.
Terapro Flashing Resin for vertical applications
Terapro Flashing Resin is used with Pro Fleece to create a reinforced membrane for detailing all Terapro Waterproofing and Surfacing applications, including curbs, drains, and penetrations.
Explore high performance and exceptional protection Discover our systems
Enhance with accessories for PMMA waterproofing
Balconies, walkways, and terraces are among the most distinctive components of building design, and as exposed structural elements they face a widely varied set of requirements. Obviously, they must be waterproof and resistant to weather and environmental damage. But since they are highly visible, aesthetic considerations are extremely important. They must be able to withstand foot traffic and abrasion. And, because they are in high access areas, application must be safe and fast. Our suite of accessories allow you to meet the waterproofing requirements and maintain aesthetic appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What products can I use to clean PMMA waterproofing systems?
Pro Prep and Pro Prep M are used to clean the transition areas of in-place Terapro Waterproofing and Flashing Membranes at tie-ins, repairs, and between staged coats of resin. They are also used to clean metal and plastic surfaces prior to application of Terapro Systems. Pro Prep products can also be utilized for cleaning spills, tools, and equipment.
How do I ensure successful application of liquid-applied waterproofing systems?
With multiple components in a waterproofing system, there is a higher risk of system failure and water infiltration. Here are some helpful tips for working with the Terapro Waterproofing and Surfacing Systems:
- Terapro is a two-component product. All Terapro Resins, both summer and winter grades, must be catalyzed prior to application regardless of ambient or substrate temperature. Because Terapro Resins are not activated until they are mixed with Pro Catalyst, contractors can eliminate waste by only preparing the amount of resin required for a job. Uncatalyzed resin will not cure, and will result in a failed application.
- Properly prepare the substrate and keep the application site clear of debris. Contamination of Terapro materials during storage, mixing, and application can adversely affect the system's performance.
- Always follow the detailed Terapro application instructions in the Terapro Waterproofing and Surfacing Systems Installer's Guides here.
What is proper storage and handling of PMMA waterproofing materials?
Warm weather presents a unique challenge to the storage and handling of PMMA materials. Always store PMMA resins and catalyst products out of direct exposure to sunlight and areas where solar load can be excessive (such as vehicle dashboards). PMMA resins and catalyst products should be stored in cool, dry places that are well ventilated. These materials should never be stored on the job site, so keep PMMA resins and catalyst products away from direct sunlight until application. Materials kept on the job site during application should be placed on a pallet in a shaded, well-ventilated area. In unshaded areas, materials should be covered with a white, reflective tarp in a manner that allows air circulation underneath the tarp. Refer to the safety data sheets here for these materials for detailed handling and storage information.
