In the commercial and residential construction industry, building envelope integrity is non-negotiable. Whether you are an architect specifying materials for a high-rise curtain wall or a general contractor addressing moisture infiltration in a renovation, the flashing membrane you choose determines the long-term success of the project.

Wasco Seal Plus has emerged as a high-performance alternative to traditional PVC flashing membranes. Engineered by York Flashings, this product is designed specifically for professionals who need to combine flexibility with extreme durability.

But what exactly is it used for, and why is it currently outperforming traditional materials on job sites across the country?

What Is Wasco Seal Plus?

Wasco Seal Plus is a flexible membrane manufactured from crosswoven polyethylene. Unlike older, PVC-based flashings that rely on plasticizers for flexibility, Wasco Seal Plus features an ARC (Abrasion-Resistant Coating).

This coating provides two critical advantages:

1. UV Resistance: It protects the membrane from degradation during the construction phase.

2. Adhesive Compatibility: The ARC surface is specifically engineered to provide an superior bonding surface for modern construction sealants and adhesives, ensuring a watertight and airtight transition.

Why It’s a "Next-Generation" Material

Professionals often transition to Wasco Seal Plus because it solves the inherent weaknesses found in older vinyl or PVC flashing products. Data from the manufacturer indicates significant performance gains over standard PVC membranes:

• 5x higher breaking strength.

• 7x higher burst strength.

• 14x higher tear strength.

• 3.6x higher puncture resistance.

By eliminating plasticizers, Wasco Seal Plus does not suffer from the "migration" effect—a common cause of flashing failure where materials become brittle, shrink, or crack over time.

Primary Applications: Where Is It Used?

Wasco Seal Plus is used as a critical component in the building envelope to manage water, air, and vapor. Its versatility allows it to be used across several high-stakes construction environments:

1. Through-Wall Flashing for Masonry

This is perhaps its most common application. In cavity wall construction, Wasco Seal Plus is used to direct water that penetrates the masonry veneer back to the exterior through the drainage plane. Its tear resistance makes it ideal for handling the rough edges of brick, block, and metal shelf angles.

2. Air and Moisture Barriers

In modern building design, maintaining an airtight envelope is vital for energy efficiency. Wasco Seal Plus provides a reliable, non-permeable barrier at building transitions, window heads, and door openings, preventing air and moisture infiltration.

3. Below-Grade Waterproofing

Because of its exceptional puncture resistance, it is effectively used in foundation and below-grade waterproofing applications where standard membranes might be torn during backfilling or contact with rough concrete surfaces.

4. Roofing Membrane Transitions

It is frequently used for sealing complex junctions in roofing systems, particularly where different materials meet, ensuring that the transition remains sealed despite the building’s natural movement.

Why Professionals Choose Wasco Seal Plus

For architects and contractors, the cost of a callback due to a leaking building envelope far outweighs the material cost of the flashing. Buyers choose Wasco Seal Plus because it offers:

• Reduced Liability: Because the material does not become brittle, it reduces the risk of long-term failures.

• Installation Efficiency: It is flexible, easy to cut, and can be formed by hand on-site, which saves labor time.

• Seamless Compatibility: It works with a wide range of standard construction adhesives, eliminating the guesswork during installation.

Where to Buy Wasco Seal Plus

Quality installation starts with quality materials. If you are ready to specify or purchase Wasco Seal Plus for your next project, you can find it through specialized building material distributors.

For professional contractors and architects, obtaining the right width for your specific transition is key. You can find available widths and order the exact amount required for your project at Spycor Building Products.

Get Your Wasco Seal Plus Membranes Now

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Wasco Seal Plus compatible with all sealants?
Wasco Seal Plus is designed to work with a wide range of industry-standard construction adhesives and sealants. However, it is always best practice to review the project’s specific sealant data sheet to confirm chemical compatibility.

Can Wasco Seal Plus be left exposed?
While it offers UV resistance due to its ARC coating, it is designed as a concealed membrane. It should be covered within 180 days of exposure to ensure the longest service life.

How is it different from traditional PVC flashing?
Traditional PVC uses plasticizers to remain flexible. Over time, these chemicals leach out, causing the membrane to shrink and crack. Wasco Seal Plus uses a crosswoven polyethylene construction that is chemically stable and significantly stronger in every performance category (tear, burst, puncture).