NRCA Waterproofing Manual – 2nd edition

The NRCA Waterproofing Manual – 2nd Edition is a comprehensive technical guide developed by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) to support the design and installation of waterproofing and dampproofing systems, particularly for below-grade applications. Released in November 2020, the manual serves as a vital companion to the NRCA Roofing Manual Set, filling in gaps where building codes offer limited direction on waterproofing. It is divided into several key sections, beginning with General Project Considerations, which address planning essentials such as quality control, weather limitations, material handling, waterstop use, drainage design, and warranty coordination. The core of the manual provides technical guidelines for waterproofing system selection, application methods, and integration with adjacent building assemblies, including best practices for both positive-side and blind-side waterproofing, as well as gas-barrier installations and hydrostatic vs. nonhydrostatic detailing. The Construction Details section offers highly visual, field-ready illustrations for transitions, terminations, and typical assemblies. In the appendices, the manual includes practical tools such as contractor qualification forms, jobsite checklists, detailed testing protocols—including electronic leak detection—and a robust glossary.

Key Aspects:

• Comprehensive Scope
• Organized Technical Structure
• Real-World Application
• Digital & CAD Resources

Highlights:

• Authored by Experts
• Updated Industry Best Practices
• Detailed Construction Illustrations
• Coverage of Specialized Applications
• Complement to Roofing Manuals

About NRCA

Developed by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), a leading trade association in the roofing industry. The manual was primarily authored by NRCA’s Waterproofing Task Force, a group composed of experienced waterproofing contractors and manufacturers of waterproofing materials. This task force conducted its work from July 2018 to March 2020, collaborating with industry subject matter experts to ensure the manual reflects current best practices and technical standards.

Other Works:

• NRCA Roofing Manual: Architectural Metal Flashing, Cond – 2022
• NRCA Roofing Manual Metal Panel and SPF Roof Systems 2024
• NRCA Roofing Manual Steep slope Roof Systems 2025