Liquid flashing has become essential to modern construction for weatherproofing a home. Two popular products dominate the market: ZIP System Liquid Flash from Huber and R-Guard FastFlash from Prosoco.
Both offer unique benefits for sealing tight spaces around windows, doors, and other potential entry points for moisture. We compare these two liquid flashing products, examining their features, application methods, and longevity to help you make an informed decision.
What Is Liquid Flashing?
Liquid flashing is a specialized sealant used in construction to create a waterproof barrier around openings in a building’s exterior. It’s particularly useful for sealing areas that are difficult to protect with traditional flashing methods, such as complex joints or irregular surfaces. Liquid flashing sticks to many things and can be put on with a caulk gun or brush.
What Are Key Benefits of Liquid Flashing?
Liquid flashing offers several advantages over traditional flashing methods. These include seamless protection against water infiltration, conforming to irregular shapes and surfaces, and easy application in tight or awkward spaces.
Liquid flashing is durable, long-lasting, and compatible with many building materials.
ZIP System Liquid Flash Overview
ZIP System Liquid Flash is a premium liquid-applied flashing membrane designed to work with other ZIP System products. Produced by Huber Engineered Woods, this product is part of a comprehensive weatherproofing system that includes vapor barrier sheathing and flashing tape.
What Are the Pros and Cons of ZIP System Liquid Flash?
ZIP System Liquid Flash offers several unique advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Integrates seamlessly with ZIP System air and moisture barriers
- Easy to apply, even in adverse weather conditions
- Provides up to 180 days of weather exposure
- Fast curing time of 20–40 minutes
Cons:
- Not available in roller-grade form
- Does not inhibit mold growth
Prosoco R-Guard FastFlash Overview
Prosoco’s R-Guard FastFlash is a versatile liquid flashing solution that is part of the R-Guard line of air and water barriers. Prosoco, known for producing various specialty construction products, designed FastFlash to be effective alongside other R-Guard products.
Pros and Cons of Prosoco R-Guard FastFlash
The pros and cons of Prosoco R-Guard FastFlash are as follows:
Pros:
- Available in both gun-grade and roller-grade variants
- Can withstand weather and UV exposure for up to 12 months
- Seals around nails and fasteners
- Handles rain immediately after application
Cons:
- Not available in smaller sizes
- Relatively slow cure time compared to some competitors
Application Comparison
While both ZIP Liquid Flash and Prosoco FastFlash serve similar purposes, there are subtle differences in their application.
Viscosity and Coverage
ZIP System Liquid Flash has a slightly higher viscosity than FastFlash, which makes it easier to work with when applying to roof seams. In terms of coverage, ZIP Liquid Flash covers up to 22 linear feet from a 20-ounce container, while FastFlash covers about 17 linear feet with the same volume.
This variance impacts the amount of product needed and the cost involved in a project, giving ZIP Liquid Flash a potential advantage in coverage efficiency.
Curing Time
Curing time is another critical factor, particularly for projects with tight schedules. ZIP Liquid Flash boasts a faster curing time of 20–40 minutes, depending on weather conditions.
Meanwhile, FastFlash takes 30–60 minutes to cure. This subtle difference is significant for projects where time is of the essence, providing ZIP Liquid Flash with the edge in time-sensitive applications.
Application Methods
In terms of application methods, the choice between gun-grade and roller-grade affects the ease of application and suitability for different surfaces.
While you can apply both products with a caulk gun, Prosoco Fash is a roller-grade version. This allows for wider coverage and makes it suitable for larger, flat wall sections that need extra protection from the elements.
Compatibility with Other Products
When choosing a liquid flashing product, consider how it will work with other parts of a home’s weatherproofing system. ZIP Liquid Flash works seamlessly with other ZIP System products. Similarly, Prosoco FastFlash works best with other R-Guard weatherproofing solutions. Combining each product with others in its family creates a complete and cohesive moisture barrier system throughout a project.
Longevity Comparison
ZIP Liquid Flash and Prosoco FastFlash both offer impressive durability and longevity, but their ratings for UV stability and weather resistance set them apart.
UV Stability and Weather Resistance
Prosoco FastFlash excels with its 12-month UV stability and weather resistance after application. This longer protection period is useful for projects with unexpected delays or longer construction times. It keeps the waterproofing intact until you finish the final building envelope.
While offering a shorter 6-month-rated exposure time, ZIP Liquid Flash still provides ample protection for most standard construction projects. This duration satisfies construction timelines, providing effective interim protection during active building phases.
Long-Term Performance
Both products provide long-lasting protection once properly installed and covered by the final building envelope. Initial exposure ratings help maintain effectiveness during the construction phase.
Assessing the full timeline of a project and considering potential delays helps in choosing the product that matches specific needs for durability and weatherproofing integrity.
Environmental Considerations
Your construction materials have an impact on the environment. Evaluate product formulations, sustainability practices, and VOC content.
VOC Content
ZIP Liquid Flash and Prosoco FastFlash both have low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) content, adhering to strict environmental standards. This formulation makes them safer for applicators and the environment, aligning with regulatory requirements and eco-friendly building practices.
Sustainability
Both products save energy by improving a home’s air and moisture barrier. However, evaluating manufacturer commitments to a sustainable product lifecycle and environmental stewardship guides responsible product choices.
Ease of Use for DIY Homeowners
If you’re tackling weatherproofing as a DIY project, ease of use is a huge factor. ZIP Liquid Flash’s higher viscosity makes it slightly easier for novices to control during application. Its consistency helps manage product flow, reducing chances of over-application or wasted material.
Both products come with detailed instructions and are user-friendly for those with basic DIY skills. You may benefit from practicing on a small part before doing the whole project to learn how to use the product.
