Spray adhesives are transforming waterproofing prep and bonding applications, offering solutions that go far beyond their traditional uses. From adhering drainage boards below grade to enhancing the bond of vapor barriers and flashing tapes above grade, these adhesives provide a faster, more efficient way to ensure a secure and lasting seal. By helping to simplify installation and reducing reliance on mechanical fasteners, spray adhesives are quickly becoming a go-to choice for contractors seeking reliable and versatile performance.  

Below Grade: Securing Drainage Boards Efficiently  

Spray adhesives are primarily used below grade to attach drainage boards to liquid or sheet-applied waterproofing systems. They serve as a temporary adhesive that holds the boards securely in place, allowing contractors to precisely position them before securing them with mechanical fasteners or backfilling. This method eliminates the hassle of misalignments and ensures a seamless installation process.  

With a sprayed adhesive, the biggest advantage is speed. Contractors can adhere large areas quickly, helping to significantly cut down installation time and allowing them to move on to mechanical fastening without delay, or until backfilled when the system is complete. This efficiency makes spray adhesives a valuable tool for projects with tight schedules and extensive waterproofing requirements. 

Some products offer an aggressive grab tack for fastener-free adhesion and a wide spray pattern for quick coverage. With long working times and compliance with SCAQMD and OTC regulations, it provides both flexibility and efficiency on the job site.  

Above Grade: Enhancing Adhesion for Vapor Barriers  

Above grade, spray adhesives act as primers to improve the adhesion of vapor barrier membranes and flexible flashing tapes. By preparing the surface for a stronger bond, they help prevent air and moisture infiltration, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the building envelope.  

Their ability to bond to a wide range of substrates—from concrete and metal to wood—makes spray adhesives a versatile solution for various above-grade applications. Contractors benefit from faster installation times and a more reliable seal against the elements.  

Speed and Efficiency: The Key Advantage  

The primary reason for the growing popularity of spray adhesives is their speed of application. With canister-based delivery systems that include a spray gun and hose, contractors can cover large surfaces efficiently. The fast-tack nature of these adhesives allows for immediate handling and positioning, streamlining the workflow and helping to reduce labor costs.  

Additionally, spray adhesives offer sufficient open time, giving contractors the flexibility to make adjustments without compromising the bond. This balance between quick tack and long open times is a notable advantage over traditional adhesives and mechanical fasteners.  

Benefits and Considerations of Spray Adhesives for Waterproofing Applications  

While spray adhesives offer numerous benefits, they do come with some considerations. 

Benefits: 

• Fast application and coverage for large areas. 
• Long open times for adjustments. 
• Portable, user-friendly systems requiring minimal training. 
• Low VOC options for environmentally conscious projects.  

Considerations:  

• Some foam insulation materials may not be compatible with specific adhesive chemistries.  
• Requires careful selection based on materials and temperature conditions.  

Choosing the Right Spray Adhesive  

Selecting the right adhesive depends on the materials and substrates involved, as well as the environmental conditions of the installation site. For below-grade applications, it’s crucial to choose adhesives compatible with waterproofing systems and drainage boards. Above grade, the focus should be on compatibility with vapor barriers and flashing tapes.   

Temperature exposure is another critical factor—adhesives must maintain their bond integrity across a range of temperatures to ensure lasting performance. Reviewing technical data sheets and manufacturer recommendations can help in making the right choice.   

For example, some systems are designed to work across both vertical and horizontal applications, offering flexibility for different job site conditions. These products are some of the first canister spray adhesives on the market, offering industrial-grade performance for below and above-grade applications. Formulated to adhere drainage composites to various substrates, they feature an aggressive grab tack for fastener-less adhesion and a long working time for flexibility.    

More Than Just Bonding: Additional Benefits  

Spray adhesives do more than just bond materials; they also serve as primers, enhancing the adhesion of subsequent layers. Their ability to bond multiple products to different substrates simplifies the installation process and reduces the need for multiple types of adhesives on-site.   

Furthermore, the self-contained nature of spray adhesive systems makes them easy to use. This simplicity, combined with speed and efficiency, explains their rising popularity among contractors.  

As the demand for innovative adhesives and sealants continues to grow, manufacturers are expanding their portfolios to meet a variety of project needs.