Waterproofing is a critical component of construction projects, especially in areas where moisture intrusion can lead to structural damage, mold growth, or compromised building integrity. One of the leading products in this domain is Henry Blueskin® WP200, a self-adhered composite membrane designed for both above and below-grade applications. This article provides a comprehensive guide to installing Henry Blueskin WP200, based on manufacturer specifications, technical documentation, and best practices outlined in the provided source materials.
Overview of Henry Blueskin WP200
Henry Blueskin® WP200 is a self-adhered waterproofing membrane composed of an SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) rubberized asphalt compound laminated to a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film. The blue HDPE layer gives the membrane its distinctive appearance and contributes to its durability and resistance to environmental factors. It is designed to bond directly to a variety of substrates, including concrete, masonry, wood, and polystyrene insulation forms.
Key features include: - Self-adhering without the need for heat, flame, or special equipment - No VOCs and low odor, making it suitable for interior and environmentally sensitive applications - High elongation properties for flexibility and movement accommodation - Resistance to hydrostatic pressure up to 231 feet - A thickness of 60 mils, with standard dimensions of 36 inches in width and 66.7 feet in length - A unique side-lap feature that enhances water-tightness
The membrane is suitable for use in a variety of construction scenarios, including foundation walls, plaza decks, tunnels, parking decks, mechanical rooms, laboratories, and wet rooms. It is also recommended for use in insulated concrete form (ICF) applications when combined with Aquatac, a water-based primer.
Surface Preparation for Installation
Proper surface preparation is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of Henry Blueskin WP200. The membrane must be applied to a clean, dry, and structurally sound substrate. Acceptable substrates include cast-in-place concrete, precast concrete, wood, concrete block, and polystyrene insulation form foundations.
All surfaces must be free from oil, dust, and excess mortar. Concrete surfaces should be smooth, without large voids, spalled areas, or sharp protrusions. Before applying the membrane, the concrete must be allowed to cure for a minimum of 7 days. Structural lightweight concrete requires a longer curing time of at least 14 days. Additionally, the surface must be dry and free from frost.
To enhance adhesion, the surface should be primed with Aquatac, a water-based primer. This is applied via spray or roller at a rate of 300 square feet per 3.78 liters (1 gallon). The primer must be allowed to dry thoroughly before applying the membrane. If primed surfaces are not covered by the membrane within the same working day, they must be re-primed.
Vertical Applications
For vertical applications—such as foundation walls or retaining walls—Henry Blueskin WP200 should be applied in lengths of 8 feet or less. Each membrane section should overlap the adjacent one by 2½ inches at both the side and end laps. The protective film is removed, and the membrane is pressed firmly into place. A counter-roller should be used immediately to ensure proper adhesion and sealing of the laps.
When multiple lengths are required on a vertical surface, they should be applied in a shingle fashion. This ensures that water flows over the laps rather than through them. At all termination points and T-joints, the laps must be sealed using 925 BES Sealant. Similarly, any lap within 12 inches of a 90-degree change in plane should also be sealed with the same sealant.
Termination of the membrane can be achieved using 925 BES Sealant, a termination bar, reglet, or counter flashing, depending on the specific application and manufacturer details. For below-grade applications, protection boards or Henry DB Drain Boards are recommended to safeguard the membrane against mechanical damage during backfilling.
Horizontal Applications
In horizontal applications—such as plaza decks, slabs, or flat roofs—Henry Blueskin WP200 should be applied starting from the lowest point of the surface and working toward the highest point in a shingle-like manner. This method prevents water from collecting in low areas and ensures proper drainage.
As with vertical applications, 2½-inch side and end laps must be provided. After placement, the membrane should be rolled over the entire surface to ensure proper adhesion. At all termination points and T-joints, the laps must be sealed with 925 BES Sealant. Any lap within 12 inches of a 90-degree change in plane must also be sealed.
For applications where the ambient temperature is below 40°F, it is recommended to apply the membrane within one hour of primer application to ensure optimal adhesion.
Special Considerations and Best Practices
Cold Weather Applications
Henry Blueskin WP200 is designed to remain flexible and perform well in cold weather. However, care must be taken to ensure the surface is free of frost and that the membrane is applied within the recommended temperature range. If the surface is below 40°F, the primer should be applied immediately before membrane installation to prevent loss of adhesion.
Protection During and After Installation
For below-grade applications, it is strongly recommended to apply protection boards or drain boards over the membrane. These materials help prevent mechanical damage during backfilling and reduce the risk of punctures or tears.
In above-grade applications, the membrane should be covered with appropriate surfacing or protective layers to prevent UV degradation and physical damage.
Use with Other Materials
Henry Blueskin WP200 is compatible with a range of complementary products, including Aquatac primer and 925 BES Sealant. It is also designed to work in conjunction with other waterproofing systems such as Henry MiraPLY® and MiraWELD® for pre-applied applications, or Henry Prodeq® and CM100 for fluid-applied systems. These combinations allow for greater flexibility in design and construction sequencing.
Technical Support and Documentation
Henry provides a range of technical documents to assist with the proper installation of Blueskin WP200. These include: - ES-H101 – Foundation Wall Applications - ES-H102 – Concrete Plaza Deck Applications - ES-H103 – Wall/Footing Detail - ES-H104 – Raised Slab Detail - ES-H105 – Deck/Wall Downturn Detail - ES-H106 – Deck/Wall Upturn Detail - ES-H107 – Termination Bar Detail - ES-H108 – Expansion Joint Detail - ES-H109 – Precast/Expansion Joint Detail - ES-H110 – Vent Detail - ES-H111 – Projection Detail - ES-H112 – Drain Detail - PMDQ-TID-A3A to A3D – Pumadeq System transitions - PRDQ-TID-B1A – Prodeq System transition
These documents provide detailed installation instructions and are essential for ensuring that the membrane is applied correctly in different construction contexts. Users are encouraged to consult the latest versions of these documents for up-to-date specifications and best practices.
Conclusion
Henry Blueskin® WP200 is a high-performance, self-adhered waterproofing membrane suitable for a wide range of above- and below-grade applications. Its ease of installation, combined with strong adhesion and resistance to hydrostatic pressure, makes it a preferred choice for waterproofing critical building components such as foundation walls, slabs, and decks.
By following the manufacturer's guidelines for surface preparation, vertical and horizontal application techniques, and special considerations such as cold weather and protection, installers can ensure a durable, water-tight barrier that meets the long-term performance requirements of modern construction.
For detailed installation instructions and technical support, users should consult the official Henry documentation and product specifications.