Rub-R-Guard: The Protection Course for Long-Lasting Foundation Waterproofing

Spray-applied waterproofing membranes like Rub-R-Wall Aqua or Rub-R-Wall CG create a seamless barrier against water intrusion. But once that foundation is backfilled, sharp rocks and construction debris can puncture even the toughest membrane if it’s left exposed.

That’s why Rub-R-Guard exists. This cross-laminated polyethylene protection course is engineered to shield foundation waterproofing membranes from damage during backfilling. Strong, flexible, and durable, it ensures that your waterproofing system performs as designed — not compromised by a stray rock.

Why Rub-R-Guard Matters

Waterproofing membranes are only as strong as their weakest point. A single puncture can create a pathway for moisture intrusion that undermines the whole system. Rub-R-Guard prevents this by acting as a sacrificial layer between the soil and the membrane.

Contractors use Rub-R-Guard because it delivers:

• Superior Tear & Puncture Resistance: Cross-laminated HDPE construction provides balanced strength in all directions .

• Moisture Retarder Performance: With a perm rating of just 0.045 perms, Rub-R-Shield also adds an extra layer of moisture control .

• Durability Against Backfill Rock: With tensile strength up to 6,151 psi and tear resistance tested by ASTM methods, it’s built to withstand backfill stress .

• Temperature Stability: Remains flexible in extreme cold (down to -70°F) and stable in high heat (up to 180°F) .

• Longevity: Will not rot, mildew, or degrade in contact with soil and moisture.

Simply put, Rub-R-Guard keeps the waterproofing membrane intact during the most dangerous stage of construction: backfill.

How Rub-R-Guard Works

Rub-R-Guard is applied directly over the cured waterproofing membrane (like Rub-R-Wall Aqua or CG). Once in place, it acts as a physical armor that absorbs abrasion, punctures, and pressure from soil and rock.

• Cross-Lamination = Equal Strength: The unique manufacturing process stretches two sheets of HDPE film and laminates them at opposing angles. This creates uniform strength across the sheet, so it resists tears in any direction .

• Lightweight, Easy to Install: At 3 mil thickness, Rub-R-Shield is easy to handle, cut, and apply, saving labor time compared to thicker protection boards .

• Flexible Installation: Available in large roll sizes (up to 20’ wide), accordion-folded for quick deployment .

Contractors can cover large sections of foundation wall efficiently while knowing the membrane underneath is protected.

Technical Performance That Protects Waterproofing

Rub-R-Guard has been tested to industry standards to prove it can stand up to the demands of below-grade construction:

• Tensile Strength: 6,151 psi (ASTM D882)

• Elongation at Break: 224% flexibility

• Grab Tensile Strength: 66 lbf (ASTM D751)

• Tongue Tear Resistance: 15 lbf (ASTM D751)

• Trapezoid Tear Resistance: 27 lbf (ASTM D4533)

• Hydrostatic Resistance: 50 psi (ASTM D751)

• Perm Rating: 0.045 perms (ASTM E96, Method A)

These aren’t just numbers on a spec sheet. They represent real-world protection against punctures, tears, and moisture migration — the exact risks that can ruin a waterproofing system during backfill.

Rub-R-Guard vs. Traditional Protection Courses

Contractors who switch to Rub-R-Guard immediately notice easier handling, faster installation, and better long-term protection for their waterproofing membranes.

The Bottom Line: Protect the Membrane, Protect the Building

You wouldn’t install drywall without taping the seams. And you shouldn’t install a waterproofing membrane without protecting it during backfill. Rub-R-Guard is the armor your waterproofing needs to perform for decades.

• Prevents punctures from rocks and debris.

• Adds moisture barrier performance.

• Lightweight, easy to install, and tough enough for any backfill.

• Built from cross-laminated HDPE with superior tear resistance.

If you want your waterproofing system to live up to its promise, don’t skip the protection course. Make Rub-R-Guard part of every below-grade waterproofing job.

Keep the Water Out. Keep the Warranty Strong.

Contractors trust Rub-R-Guard to ensure their waterproofing membranes survive the backfill process intact.