​Specialized Capabilities

Bridge Deck Waterproofing (Shop-Applied Option)

Littell Steel offers shop-applied spray-on deck waterproofing as an added capability for bridge projects—an option that extends beyond standard fabrication and coating requirements.

What It Is

A high-build, spray-applied waterproofing membrane designed specifically for bridge deck protection. This system is distinct from traditional zinc/epoxy/urethane coatings and is engineered to resist:

• Water intrusion
• De-icing chemicals
• Long-term wear from traffic and vibration

Typical systems include Sterling deck waterproofing, applied directly to deck plates and related surfaces.

How It Differs from Standard Coatings

• Not part of the standard paint system
• Applied at a significantly greater thickness
• Designed for deck performance, not just corrosion protection
• Functions as a protective barrier layer, not simply a coating

Industry Standard vs. Littell’s Approach

Typical Specification
Bridge deck waterproofing is usually applied in the field by the contractor after erection.

Littell’s Approach
We offer to apply waterproofing in our shop during fabrication, under controlled conditions.

Why It Matters

Improved Quality Control
Application in a controlled environment ensures consistent thickness, adhesion, and coverage.

Reduced Field Labor & Complexity
Minimizes the need for field crews, access systems, and coordination after steel erection.

Lower Total Installed Cost
Shifting this scope into fabrication reduces labor, staging, and weather-related delays.

More Predictable Schedules
Waterproofing is completed before delivery, helping streamline downstream construction.

Value to Owners & Contractors

By integrating deck waterproofing into the fabrication process, Littell Steel helps reduce project risk, control costs, and improve long-term performance – delivering a level of coordination that most fabricators do not offer.

Precision Masking for Galvanized Structures

Selective protection where fabrication demands it.

Littell Steel can provide precision masking for hot-dip galvanized steel structures, including bridge members that require specific areas to remain free of zinc for later welding or stud installation.

This process is commonly used on components such as top flanges of bridge girders, where field-welded shear studs or other welded attachments may be installed after galvanizing. Before the galvanizing process, a specialized masking coating is applied to designated areas of the steel. The coating resists the pickling, acid, and galvanizing baths, preventing zinc from bonding to those surfaces.

The result is a clean, weldable steel surface exactly where it is needed, while the rest of the member receives the long-term corrosion protection of hot-dip galvanizing.

Common applications include:

• Bridge girders requiring field-welded studs
• Selective ungalvanized weld zones
• Galvanized structures with post-galvanizing attachment requirements
• Projects requiring both corrosion protection and controlled weldable areas

Benefit: full galvanic protection where appropriate, with precise uncoated areas preserved for critical field work.