An Excellent Marine Plywood Alternative:
Waterproofing Membrane

How Waterproofing Membrane Products Can Help Provide An Excellent Marine Plywood Alternative

Marine plywood has long been the go-to material for projects requiring durability and water resistance. Its ability to withstand harsh environments makes it a favorite among builders and DIY enthusiasts. However marine plywood can sometimes be challenging and expensive. Fortunately, innovations in waterproofing technology offer a compelling alternative: liquid membrane products. One standout option is Semco’s liquid membrane, which provides excellent protection and versatility, making it an ideal substitute for making an equivalent to marine-grade plywood. It can also be used to further the longevity of marine-grade plywood.

What is Marine Plywood?

Marine plywood is a premium-grade exterior structural panel that’s designed to be strong, water resistant, and durable. It’s made of multiple thin layers of wood with no large knots or voids, and the core plies are usually of a higher grade than other exterior panels. Marine plywood is also manufactured with an adhesive that can withstand prolonged exposure to water and high temperatures.

The Advantages of Marine Plywood

Marine plywood is prized for its robustness and water-resistant properties. Constructed with waterproof adhesive and durable veneers, it’s designed to resist delamination and fungal attacks. This makes it perfect for applications in boat building, outdoor furniture, and environments exposed to moisture.

However, despite its benefits, marine plywood has its drawbacks:

• Cost: High-quality marine-grade plywood can be quite expensive.
• Availability: It’s not always easy to find a reliable supplier nearby.
• Weight and Handling: Marine plywood can be heavy, making installation labor-intensive.

Semco’s Liquid Membrane

Semco’s liquid membrane offers a modern solution to these traditional challenges. This innovative product is a fluid-applied, seamless waterproofing membrane that cures to form a tough, durable layer. It’s designed to make lower grades of plywood have superior water resistance and protection against the elements, making the combination a formidable alternative to marine plywood.

Key Benefits of Semco’s Liquid Membrane:

1. Superior Waterproofing: Once cured, the liquid membrane forms a barrier that protects against water infiltration. This makes it perfect for marine environments and any application where moisture resistance is critical.
2. Flexibility and Versatility: Unlike rigid plywood, Semco’s liquid membrane can be applied to various surfaces and shapes, offering more design flexibility. It adheres well to wood, concrete, metal, and other materials.
3. Ease of Application: The liquid membrane can be easily applied with a brush, roller, or spray, allowing for a seamless finish even in hard-to-reach areas. This reduces labor costs and installation time compared to traditional plywood. Semco’s anti-fracture fabric can be used to bridge joints between panels of plywood when embedded between two coats of liquid membrane.
4. Durability and Longevity: The cured membrane is highly resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and physical wear, ensuring long-lasting protection in harsh conditions.
5. Cost-Effective: Where a regular sheet of ¾” plywood averages around $1.25/sq ft, marine grade plywood can often be as much as $4/sq ft. At a typical yield of 800 sq ft for a 5 gallon bucket the Liquid Membrane only adds about $.50/sq ft providing considerable savings.

Applications of Liquid Membrane as a Marine Plywood Alternative

• Boat Building: The liquid membrane can waterproof much of the wood on a boat.
• Outdoor Structures: Gazebos, pergolas, and other outdoor constructions benefit from the seamless waterproofing properties of the liquid membrane, ensuring longevity and durability.
• Roofing and Decking: The membrane is excellent for waterproofing roofs, balconies, and decks, where traditional marine plywood might be used.
• Bathrooms and Wet Areas: Its waterproof nature makes it ideal for wet rooms, bathrooms, and other high-moisture environments.

SEMCO Liquid Membrane

Bonus Tip: SEMCO Liquid Waterproofing Membrane comes in a variety of colors, allowing you to seamlessly blend waterproofing with aesthetics. Choose from classic options like black and white, or add a touch of personality with Cove Blue or Sandy Beige.

How to Apply Semco Liquid Membrane

Applying Semco Liquid Membrane is straightforward and can be done by professional contractors or DIY enthusiasts with some experience in home improvement.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Surface: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from any loose debris or contaminants.
2. Apply the Membrane: Using a brush, roller, or sprayer, apply an even coat of Semco Liquid Membrane. Ensure all areas are covered, especially joints and corners. Joints may require an anti-fracture fabric, check the product documentation for more details.
3. Allow the first coat to dry: This usually takes a few hours but can vary based on environmental conditions.
4. Apply the second coat
5. Inspect and Finish: Check the surface for any missed spots or thin areas and apply additional coats or touch-up if necessary.

Compare Semco Liquid Membrane

Consider using Semco Liquid Membrane to waterproof your regular plywood or OSB; to the higher costs and availability of marine plywood and or acx plywood.

While marine-grade plywood remains a solid choice for many applications, Semco’s liquid membrane offers a cost-saving functional alternative,

…when coupled with lower grades of plywood. Its superior waterproofing capabilities, ease of application, and flexibility make it an excellent choice.

Whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor looking for reliable products, Semco Liquid Membrane is a top choice for marine plywood cost savings alternatives of choice.