QCML Criteria for Waterproofing Sheet Membrane Systems (M9.08.2)

This criteria was qualified by MassDOT as of the date posted: September 26, 2023

For a Waterproofing Sheet Membrane System to be listed on the Qualified Construction Materials List (QCML), products must meet the requirements of Subsection M9.08.2 of MassDOT’s Standard Specifications including all Material and Testing Requirements outlined herein.

Table of Contents

Material Properties

The membrane waterproofing system shall consist of the following:

  • Primer
  • Sheet Membrane
  • Mastic

The chemical composition, physical properties and dimensional requirements for all components of the Sheet Waterproofing Sheet Membrane System shall conform to the manufacturer’s specifications. All components shall be approved by the manufacturer as being compatible for use with the specified membrane. Cleaning solvents shall also be approved by the manufacturer for use with the Waterproofing Sheet Membrane System. 

All accessory components such as, flashing, primer, etc. used in the application of the sheet membrane will be considered a part of this specification and shall conform to the manufacturer’s requirements.

Primer Material Requirements for Waterproofing Sheet Membrane System (M9.09.1):

The primer shall meet the requirements of Subsection M9.09.1 of the Standard Specifications.

Membrane Material Requirements for Waterproofing Sheet Membrane Systems (M9.08.2):

The membrane sheet shall meet the requirements in ASTM D6153 and Table M9.08.2-1.

The peel-off backing material shall be tear resistant to prevent portions of it from remaining after the membrane is applied.

Table M9.08.2-1: Sheet Membrane Material Properties

Property Test Requirements
Thickness   ≥60 mils
Permeance

ASTM E96

Water Method, Procedure B

≤1.0 perms
Pliability ASTM D146 (1) No breaks

Note:

(1) The test temperature of the specimen shall be 0°F after 24 hours and 180° bend over a ¼ inch mandrel.

Mastic Material Requirements for Waterproofing Sheet Membrane Systems (M9.08.2):

The mastic for use with rubberized sheets shall be a rubberized asphalt cold-applied joint sealant. The mastic for use with modified bitumen sheet shall be a blend of bituminous and synthetic resins. The mastic shall be approved for use by the manufacturer.

Submittal and Testing Requirements

A manufacturer requesting approval of Waterproofing Sheet Membrane Systems shall furnish to MassDOT RMS the following:

  • The material specifications and performance data for their product.
  • Certified independent test reports as specified under the Independent Testing Requirements section shown below.
  • A detailed summary of successful installations that have occurred in the United States, including owner contact information, design and construction details (substrate type & condition, membrane system components, hot mix asphalt overlay thickness and mix details, etc.), year constructed, tests performed, performance monitoring and/or testing, and any other additional information requested by the Department.
  • A demonstration of the product’s installation and performance may be required to be qualified by MassDOT.

All submittals shall be certified to be in conformance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Waterproofing Sheet Membrane Systems qualified by MassDOT per the performance criteria shall be considered for placement on the MassDOT QCML.

Independent Testing Requirements:

All submitted independent test results shall meet the following requirements:

  • The Certified independent test reports submitted must demonstrate conformance to ASTM D6153, Table M9.08.2-1, and the submitted product performance data.
  • The Independent Lab must be recognized by the National Cooperation for Laboratory Accreditation (NACLA) in Construction Materials Engineering and Testing (CMET) or an equal program approved by Research and Materials.
  • All testing shall be performed by one Independent Lab unless approved by the Engineer.
  • Independent test reports must be dated within two years from the initial submission.
  • Samples for all required testing shall be fabricated at the same time. Test reports shall denote the lot of material as well as the sample fabrication and testing dates.

Product Listing, Expiration, and Re-Approval

Once approved, the Waterproofing Sheet Membrane System will be listed on the MassDOT QCML. The product shall remain on the approved list for five (5) years unless one of the following occurs:

  • If the product’s technology changes.
    • If the product formulation or technology changes, the Manufacturer shall notify MassDOT RMS.
  • MassDOT RMS determines that the product no longer meets the minimum requirements.

A written request for re-approval must be submitted to the Department at least 90 days prior to the expiration date for the product to remain on the QCML. The manufacturer will be required to submit certified test reports demonstrating conformance to the specification.

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