Bridges withstand heavy traffic, which often causes the concrete deck to develop tiny cracks. Cracks are bad news for any concrete structure because they allow water to seep into the deck and corrode the reinforcing steel. This corrosion and deterioration can weaken the bridge’s structural integrity, increasing the potential for partial or total collapse. 

In addition, the steel supports that hold the bridge structure in place are also prone to rust and corrosion caused by environmental factors such as weather conditions, road salt, and steady usage if they’re not appropriately protected. That’s why keeping excess snow, ice, salts and water away from bridge decks is extremely important to protect the bridge and extend its lifespan.

The best way to protect bridge decks from premature deterioration is by waterproofing it. Bridge deck waterproofing is the process of applying a protective, waterproof coating to the bridge deck to protect it from environmental and structural damages, such as corrosion and rust.  

Bridge deck waterproofing can be applied during the bridge construction phase or many years later as a restoration program.

Not only does bridge deck waterproofing extend the lifespan of decks, but it can also save money, reducing the need for expensive maintenance and rehabilitation. 

Multiple systems have been used to protect bridge decks from corrosion and damages; however, these other systems often fail over time. Properly applied bridge deck waterproofing using a polyurea coating, on the other hand, ensures the bridge is safely waterproofed for many years and significantly extends the lifespan of the bridge compared to other waterproofing processes.