By Mike Bader, Tremco.  

Learn about waterproofing and building plaza and amenity decks on existing structures.  

Summer is just around the corner and one of the best ways to enjoy it is outdoors. And for those who live in cities, finding green space can be a challenge. This limited access is why many people in high-rise cities are drawn to apartments with plaza decks that offer them an outdoor oasis in the form of lush patios, swimming pools and even dog parks.  

With such a high demand, these amenity decks are a great way to add value to your building. But adding these features isn't simple, especially if you’re adding one to a structure that was not initially constructed to bear the weight or moisture that comes with added greenery and water. In this article, we’ll dive into three key considerations related to building a rooftop deck that is waterproof and structurally sound.  

1 – Managing greenery 

Whether in the form of planters, flowers or trees, new greenery on a plaza deck will introduce a significant amount of water and weight to the structure. The building owner and members of the design/build team should consult with other trades prior to adding any new vegetation to mitigate potential damage. A waterproofing specialist, such as Tremco’s technicians, can review the existing structure for proper water drainage and recommend the addition of drains, application of a waterproofing membrane or any other necessary building changes. An engineer can then assess if the structure can hold the anticipated weight. 

2 – Adding a pool or hot tub 

Swimming pools and hot tubs on plaza decks pose added waterproofing hazards due to the constant presence of water and chlorine. Drains may become clogged with debris which can add to the potential of ponding water on the deck’s surface. Facility managers should routinely check for any cracking of the finish which may indicate a waterproofing or structural concern.

Generally speaking, sealants are typically installed with a concave design. However, on the perimeter surrounding a body of water, this shape can hold the water on the surface of the sealant. A high concentration of chlorine or other chemical can damage the sealant after prolonged exposure. At this location, sealants should instead be installed flush to minimize surface water. Sealants should be inspected annually, so if you notice damage or discolored sealant, a tear out and recaulk is recommended. 

3 – Designing a dog park 

Rooftop dog parks can include pathways, large fenced-in dog runs and dedicated relief areas. While seemingly harmless and lightweight, water is needed to clean the surfaces and dispose of waste. A waterproofing specialist can help determine the necessary slope of the deck to accommodate sprinklers and other drainage systems. They will look for improperly sealed penetrations, such as those for plumbing or electrical, which could cause leaks from the added water.

In addition, if grass or astroturf material is not properly secured to the substrate, moisture could become trapped beneath the surface. And since some waterproofing membranes break down when exposed to the chemical composition of animal waste, any extended exposure could compromise the system.  

Conclusion 

The addition of greenery, pools, hot tubs or dog parks to a plaza deck is not as simple as it might sound. It is critical that owners work with waterproofing specialists and engineers to determine any modifications needed for the proposed design. Always err on the side of caution, as bypassing this step can lead to costly water intrusion and structural issues. 

Original article and photo source: Tremco

By Emma Peterson. 

Why contractors are using the Dryvit Outsulation system for historic and heritage projects. 

Historic buildings are fundamental to preserving our cities’ culture and heritage. However, because of their age, they are often in need of renovations to make them structurally sound and safe for modern use. Historical remediation projects come with a variety of challenges, as the American Society of Civil Engineers points out, “Renovation and restoration present unique challenges over new construction projects, such as complying with preservation laws, managing hazardous materials, addressing potential rezoning concerns, as well as ensuring the availability of skilled workers.” 

But just because it’s a challenge doesn't mean it’s impossible, and Tremco CPG’s Dryvit brand has developed an exterior facade solution that makes it easier to tackle these restoration projects – the Outsulation® system.  

What is the Dryvit Outsulation system 

Dryvit Outsulation is a modern exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) that, as the name suggests, insulates a building from the outside. It features “continuous insulation (CI) adhered or attached to an approved substrate, a basecoat with reinforcing fiberglass mesh and an impact-resistant architectural finish.” Traditionally, the insulator used in the CI of a Dryvit Outsulation system is EPS foam, but GPS, XPS and Mineral Wool are also usable.  

Dryvit Outsulation provides maximum durability, sustainability and thermal performance for all types of climates and structures. It has been shown to lower energy costs, reduce exterior maintenance needs and keep building looking their best.   

Designing with the Dryvit Outsulation system for historic integrity 

For the restoration of aging structures, Dryvit Outsulation is an ideal system for maintaining historical integrity. This is because EIFS provide the perfect balance of design flexibility with contemporary performance. 

Versatility 

EIFS, like the Dryvit Outsulation system, are remarkably versatile when it comes to design. They can be custom shaped and finished to mimic a wide variety of materials, even the intricate details often found on 19th and 20th century buildings (like cornices, dentils and keystones). Additionally, you can choose from countless textures and colors for a Dryvit Outsulation façade, making it simple to refresh a fading coating to match the historical intent. 

Because the CI is used in the system is typically a lightweight EPS foam, they put far less weight strain on a historical structure than other options.  

Performance 

A common challenge for historic renovations is getting the structure up to modern building codes and standards. Dryvit Outsulation is great at bringing heritage buildings up to contemporary energy codes and performance expectations. The combination of CI and the air/water barrier that are installed as a part of the system reduces thermal bridging and air leakage. In fact, since 2013, many national code bodies have started requiring CI for new construction projects for its ability to increase buildings’ R-value.  

Affordability 

These days, every building project seems expensive, but historic work is especially costly since it often involves sourcing rare materials or locating specific skilled labor. By working with the Dryvit Outsulation system, you can save money on the exterior restoration without cutting any corners. Not only is the material itself more affordable than other options, using field-applied or prefabricated EIFS shortens timelines and minimizes labor costs.  

One contractor, Rob Little of Little Construction, shared the benefit of working with Dryvit on his company’s Boston Hill Center project, “You can design it anyway you want, any color you want, almost any texture you want...and get your CI requirements and durability.” 

Conclusion 

Overall, the Dryvit Outsulation system is a powerful tool to have when renovating historical or heritage structures. The CI and other components of the EIFS combine visual adaptability, high-performance and cost-effectiveness to create the perfect balance of “preserving the past and constructing for the future.” 

Learn more about preserving historical buildings with Dryvit Outsolution EIFS.

Join RCS host, Megan Ellsworth, for an open and uplifting conversation celebrating Pride Month, brought to you by Tremco. Megan and panelists will explore how roofing companies can create inclusive environments within their businesses and the industry overall. From recruitment and retention to mentorship, leadership and jobsite culture, the panel shares honest insights about the importance of visibility and allyship in the trades. The discussion also highlights how embracing diversity strengthens teams, drives innovation and helps build a healthier future for the roofing industry. Join us for this very special Pride Month Coffee Conversations!

Register today!

By Emma Peterson. 

How fan array retrofits support comfort, safety and HVAC system longevity. 

The quality of the air we breathe is vital to our health, comfort and overall quality of life. Frank Shadpour, the principal instructor for the HVAC Systems Design and Control Program at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, explains:  

For residential and commercial office buildings, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is primarily employed to ensure occupant comfort. However, in the case of a surgical suite in a hospital, the HVAC system's role is crucial in maintaining the optimal temperature, humidity, air pressure and air purity to ensure proper infection control measures required for safe patient surgeries. The more advanced the building, the more intricate the HVAC design and control systems. 

So, how do you make sure the HVAC in your building is keeping the interior environment healthy and safe? Proactive maintenance and care. This approach also has the added benefit of saving the building owner money in the long run. In fact, WTI PureAir, a subsidiary of Tremco Roofing, estimates that restoring and maintaining an HVAC system can lead to “as much as 70% cost avoidance compared to new equipment costs.” 

One of the most impactful forms of proactive maintenance for keeping HVAC systems healthy and building owner wallets happy are fan array retrofits. A fan array retrofit is a mechanical upgrade that transfers an existing HVAC system’s workload from one large fan to several smaller fans. This is beneficial for a variety of reasons:  

• Increased reliability: Because you have multiple fans instead of relying on just one, a fan array retrofit minimizes the risk of downtime. Tremco explains, “Even if a fan within the wall malfunctions, the remaining fans persist, preventing interruptions to essential HVAC functions.” 
• Simplified maintenance: After installing a fan array retrofit, maintenance will be easier and more cost effective, because technicians will be able to repair individual fans as needed without shutting down the whole system. This enables deferred maintenance scheduling and eliminates downtime and associated costs. 
• Versatile design: By moving away from the one large fan design, engineers can tailor HVAC fan configurations to each project's needs, allowing for optimization of space and performance.  
• Improved efficiency: With multiple fans, you can run them at different speeds based on demand. This leads to significant energy savings as it ensures conditioned air is reaching its destination efficiently. Further, this helps avoid “maximum-capacity operations that also accelerate mechanical wear.” 

Overall, when it comes to HVAC, operational reliability is key. Without proper HVAC systems, you run the risk of harming not only a building, but also the health of its occupants. That’s why retrofits like fan arrays are such important investments. 

Learn more about fan array retrofits and building HVAC systems that will perform for years to come.

Join RCS host, Megan Ellsworth, for an open and uplifting conversation celebrating Pride Month, brought to you by Tremco. Megan and panelists will explore how roofing companies can create inclusive environments within their businesses and the industry overall. From recruitment and retention to mentorship, leadership and jobsite culture, the panel shares honest insights about the importance of visibility and allyship in the trades. The discussion also highlights how embracing diversity strengthens teams, drives innovation and helps build a healthier future for the roofing industry. Join us for this very special Pride Month Coffee Conversations!

Register today!

By Emma Peterson. 

Tremco’s cold fluid‑applied solutions for new construction and restoration. 

In a new episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sat down with Jay Anderson, a business development specialist of fluid-applied roofing for Tremco, to talk about their newest product – the VULKEM® Roofing System. The goal of this release was to reach the construction market in a new way. Jay explained: 

Our applications for new construction were really focused on direct to concrete applications. And when we think about that particular market strategy, it's typically gone to hot rubberized asphalt roofing systems. And one of the challenges of those systems is the safety aspect of working with hot rubberized asphalt. So, what we did with VULKEM was create a cold fluid-applied product that fills that role performance-wise without the safety concerns. 

Within the VULKEM line there are four main product options – MCW, X4, AT and 4083. Jay shared a bit about each of these:  

1. VULKEM MCW – The MCW, or moisture cure waterproofing, product was developed from Tremco’s high-performance below-grade waterproofing products. Jay explained, “MCW is designed for direct to concrete and plywood decks. It is ideal for high build systems because it goes down at 120 wet mils in application with an additional coarse layer of protection on top of that. The result is 180 mils of product installed that is going to give you long-term performance.” 
2. VULKEM X4 – As for X4, this is the VULKEM line’s low-odor, reinforced membrane perfect for light-traffic applications (such as maintenance). In Jay’s words, VULKEM X4 is “a multi-component modified polyurethane methacrylate membrane that cures in as little as 45 minutes, no matter the temperature.” 
3. VULKEM AT – And while VULKEM was created with new construction in mind, they have not forgotten the role of fluid-applied roofing in the restoration market. In fact, that’s what VULKEM AT is designed for. Jay shared, “AT is a single-component urethane product designed for roofing and waterproofing restorations...It is a fully reinforced system and goes down in two coats over everything from a smooth BUR system, a granulated modified bitumen roof system and a single-ply system.”   
4. VULKEM 4083 – Last but not least is the VULKEM 4083, which is an elastomeric acrylic coating designed to protect existing metal roofing. Jay explained what this means, sharing, “It's not intended to be a waterproofing; it's really intended to be a protective coating. Think about these low-slope roofs that are beginning to rust, this is a great opportunity for VULKEM 4083 to come in and provide a protective coating that's going to help sustain that existing metal asset.” 

Overall, if you are looking for a high-performance fluid-applied restoration or new construction roofing system, the VULKEM line stands out. Jay explained, “VULKEM stands out because we developed it by taking what we’ve learned from the industry over the past several decades with our existing products to re-engineer our products into the more competitively priced VULKEM series.” 

Listen to the whole episode to learn more about Tremco’s new VULKEM line of products.

By Emma Peterson. 

Nudura ICFs are engineered and certified for structural integrity in the face of earthquakes.  

Across the world, seismic activity has been growing more threatening. In 2020 alone there were three major earthquakes across Croatia, Turkey and Greece that not only caused more than 1 billion Euros in damage but also put large numbers of human lives at risk. One of the most important things we can do in the face of this rising threat is to build stronger buildings that can endure Mother Nature’s worst.  

The first step to doing so? Making higher-performance products that can withstand high winds, flying debris, seismic waves and more. Products like Tremco Construction Products Group’s Nudura® Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs). 

Nudura ICFs combine the strength of concrete with advanced engineering that not only provides increased energy efficiency but also safeguards lives during seismic events. In fact, Nudura ICFs meet and exceed a variety of building codes that cover earthquake resistance, such as the International Building Code (IBC), National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) and Eurocode 8.  

Further, Nudura has just been tested and certified to meet the ASTM E2126 standard. What is this standard? It is a dynamic seismic shear test that assesses the performance of framed wall assemblies in the face of in-plane seismic forces. The test of Nudura ICFs was conducted by the third-party Eucentre Foundation out of Pavia, Italy. Their findings indicated that:  

The Insulated Concrete Form walls performed equally compared to the conventional concrete walls in reducing lateral sway when faced with seismic shear loads. The findings also indicate that the success of concrete shear walls is less dictated on whether the walls use insulated concrete forming systems or traditional formwork, but rather dependent on steel reinforcement layout and type of concrete utilized. 

In addition to this, Nudura ICFs comply with Department of Defense (DoD) standards UFC 4-010-01 and UFC 4-023-03 and EN 1991-1-7 (Eurocode 1: Accidental Actions), which assess structures’ ability to endure and resist progressive collapse. 

Download Tremco’s Disaster Resilience Brochure to learn more about how Nudura stands up to earthquakes and more.

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn how Dryvit was used to renovate the New Mexico State Capitol, improving performance without sacrificing historical preservation. 

Santa Fe has a long and storied history as the capital city of New Mexico, even before statehood. In 1610, conquistador Don Pedro de Peralta built the Palace of the Governors in current Santa Fe as the “capital for the Spanish ‘Kingdom of New Mexico.” In 1821, when Mexico won independence from Spain, Santa Fe stayed as a capital, this time to the new Mexican province of Nuevo Mexico. By the time President William Howard Taft signed New Mexico into statehood on January 6, 1912, there was no question that Santa Fe would stay the capital. 

The current New Mexico State Capitol is the 232,000 square-foot Roundhouse. Called this because of its unique curved structure, the Roundhouse is the only round capitol building in the U.S. It was designed by W.C. Kruger based on “elements of New Mexico Territorial style, Pueblo adobe architecture and Greek Revival adaptations.”  

Not only does this design make the Roundhouse an iconic and unique structure, it also creates some unique maintenance requirements. This is something that Winter Finishes had to overcome when they were brought in to work on the Roundhouse’s façade in 2024. The last time the façade had been worked on was when a Dryvit Outsulation® system was installed 25 years ago. 

The goal of the 2024 renovation was to address cracks and minor moisture intrusions while also maintaining the historical integrity of the Roundhouse. To do this, Winter Finishes installed around 50,000 square feet of a Dryvit Direct-Applied system. This system was chosen for its impact- and crack-resistant exterior as well as its ability to secure the building envelope. They then used a custom Quarzputz® textured finish to accurately match the color and texture of the historic stucco.  

The result is a clean, vibrant finish on the New Mexico State Capitol that honors its original architectural design and historic significance without sacrificing performance.  

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

In healthcare, roofing is not just about the physical buildings; it is about patient safety and uninterrupted care. 

Healthcare facilities are among the most demanding environments in construction. Hospitals, surgical centers and specialized care facilities operate around the clock with no tolerance for failure. While attention is often focused on advanced medical technology and clinical expertise, one of the most critical components protecting both is the roof. From new construction to restoration and especially reroofing, roofing systems play a vital role in ensuring patient safety, operational continuity and long-term performance. 

The need for high-performing healthcare buildings continues to grow. According to analysis from Sage Economics, healthcare hiring has been a major driver of job growth, fueled by an aging population and increased demand for services. As more patients enter the system and facilities expand to meet that demand, the buildings themselves must perform at a higher level than ever before. Roofing is a foundational part of that performance, protecting everything beneath it from the elements while supporting a safe and controlled indoor environment. 

Unlike other commercial buildings, healthcare facilities cannot afford disruption. A roof leak in a retail building may be inconvenient, but in a hospital it can be devastating. Water intrusion has the potential to shut down operating rooms, damage highly sensitive equipment and introduce contaminants that put vulnerable patients at risk. For individuals undergoing surgery or those with compromised immune systems, even minor environmental issues can have serious consequences. This is why roofing in healthcare is not simply about durability, it is about reliability and precision under any and all environmental conditions. 

Reroofing presents one of the most complex challenges in this environment. Healthcare buildings rarely have the option to pause operations, meaning roofing work must take place while patient care continues uninterrupted. Contractors must carefully plan around surgeries, emergency services and daily operations while controlling noise, vibration and odors. Infection control becomes a central focus, with strict protocols in place to ensure that construction activities do not introduce dust, debris or airborne contaminants into sensitive areas. This level of coordination requires not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of how healthcare facilities function on a day-to-day basis. 

The selection of roofing materials plays a critical role in minimizing disruption and maximizing performance. Low-odor and low-VOC products help maintain indoor air quality during installation, while fast-curing systems reduce the time a roof deck is exposed and vulnerable. Moisture-resistant assemblies are essential for preventing leaks and long-term deterioration, and energy-efficient systems contribute to the overall performance of the facility. Manufacturers such as Tremco Roofing & Building Maintenance have developed solutions specifically for healthcare environments, focusing on restoration and fluid-applied systems that can be installed with minimal tear-off, reducing noise, waste and disruption. 

Installation is equally crucial. Even the most advanced materials will not perform as intended without proper application. Healthcare roofing demands experienced contractors who understand infection control protocols, phased construction and the importance of communication with facility managers and medical staff. Every detail matters, from staging materials to scheduling work in a way that avoids interference. There is no margin for error when patient safety is involved. 

For many healthcare facilities, restoration offers a strategic advantage over full roof replacement. By extending the life of existing systems, restoration can reduce costs while significantly limiting disruption to operations. It also supports sustainability goals by minimizing waste and preserving resources. When combined with a proactive maintenance program, roof restoration can help facilities manage long-term capital planning while maintaining a high level of performance. 

Ongoing service and maintenance are essential for healthcare roofing. Regular inspections and preventative care allow contractors to identify and address small issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach helps protect the integrity of the building envelope, maintain indoor air quality and avoid costly emergency repairs that could disrupt patient care. For roofing contractors, it also represents an opportunity to build lasting relationships with medical providers by becoming a trusted partner in maintaining their facilities. 

As the healthcare industry continues to expand and evolve, the importance of reliable roofing will only increase. Every decision, from product selection to installation to long-term maintenance, directly impacts patient satisfaction, safety, operational continuity and the overall success of the facility. Roofing contractors and manufacturers who understand these unique demands are positioned to deliver solutions that go far beyond traditional construction.

By Emma Peterson. 

A candid conversation with two founders of NWIR about how ten years has changed the perception of female professionals. 

With the amount of stressful news constantly around us, it can be hard to remember to celebrate the good news and progress being made. To put the good in the spotlight, Heidi J. Ellsworth, CEO of The Coffee Shops™ and Jennifer Stone, the director of national accounts, Tremco, sat down for a Roofing Road Trips® episode all about the growth of the roofing industry since they helped launch National Women in Roofing (NWIR) a decade ago.  

Heidi opened the conversation by talking about how NWIR first came to be, sharing, “It started at the Midwest meetings. It was me, Jennifer, Jenny Ford Smith and Sherry Carlazzi. And we had this idea, called Trent Cotney and asked, “how do we make this happen?’” 

And now, ten years later, NWIR is stronger than ever, and today there has been a noticeable change in the perception of women in the roofing industry since the organization’s founding. Jennifer shared:  

When we were getting together 10 years ago, I remember Jenny saying, ‘I can't wait till the day people stop introducing me as the first female leader of sales and you as the first this and the first that.’ And it really feels like we’re getting there... You see so many women that are in the C-suite executive positions, and it isn't a first anymore. 

This growth not only helps women in the industry, but it helps the industry as a whole. Jennifer explained, “We’ve seen a huge growth of diversity in the roofing industry in the last decade, and it makes the industry better because you get diversity of thought, which is where retention, innovation and growth come from.”  

A great example of this was Tremco’s hiring of Mandy McIntyre in a specialized position all about culture and process development. Jennifer spoke a bit about this:  

Mandy's role as a strong woman who's passionate about culture and mental health and people, her focus positively impacts Tremco's culture in numerous, numerous ways, including process development, and performance management...And would she have been hired in this role a decade ago? I don’t know, but what we do know is that because she’s in this leadership role, Tremco’s culture and business are both stronger. 

Heidi added some of her thoughts, “It’s amazing to see this kind of thing. It really shows how the perceptions of women and the perceptions of what's acceptable and what's not acceptable have changed in the last 10 years.”  

Listen to the rest of Heidi and Jennifer’s conversation to hear more about how the perception of women has changed in the roofing industry.