A reprieve from persistent waterproofing failures

By Dani Sheehan.

Learn how Pli-Dek's waterproofing solutions saved this Sarasota townhome community from long-term frustration and costly repairs.

Long-term durability is non-negotiable when it comes to offering waterproofing solutions to your customers. When Joss Contracting needed a reliable fix for the failing waterproof deck coatings at KB Home Willowbrook Townhomes in Sarasota, Florida, they reached out to Pli-Dek®, knowing their solutions would speak for themselves.

The problem: Recurring waterproofing failures

Despite being less than ten years old, the existing waterproof deck coating at the 540-unit, 1,080-deck townhome community had already failed twice. Initially, a single-ply PVC roofing membrane was installed, but performance issues and design flaws led to its deterioration. When a mock-up of the original membrane was reinstalled, it quickly suffered punctures from foot traffic, signaling an inevitable repeat of past failures.

The Pli-Dek solution: A durable, long-lasting system

Recognizing the weaknesses of the original system, the Pli-Dek team worked closely with Joss Contracting to create a corrective plan that would eliminate past issues and provide long-term protection. With waterproofing contractor JBLJ Consulting, Karins Engineering Group, Inc. providing engineering support and supplier Coastal Construction Products, Inc. contributing essential materials, Pli-Dek successfully rehabilitated the community, replacing all exterior plywood balconies with a more resilient solution.

First, all existing decks were removed and rebuilt using proper exterior materials and sloping techniques to ensure effective water drainage. The Pli-Dek Waterproof Base Coat was then applied, providing superior moisture protection and a stable foundation. Once the exterior building finishes were completed, the Pli-Dek Waterproofing Membrane and topcoat were installed, delivering both durability and decor. The chosen finish color, Hickory, complemented the buildings’ paint scheme, improving the overall curb appeal of the community.

Read the full case study to learn more about the benefits of adding a Pli-Dek waterproofing solution to your next project.