Advanced Vapor Barrier System for Chemically Contaminated Building Footprint

The Challenge

During the ongoing construction of a commercial building for Princess Auto, site-specific contamination (hydrocarbons) was discovered within the building footprint. This discovery necessitated an immediate pivot to a heavy-duty vapor barrier system capable of withstanding these contaminants.

The project faced significant obstacles beyond the environmental conditions. The client was operating on a strict critical path schedule, meaning any delays in the vapor barrier installation would cascade and impact subsequent trades. The site also presented logistical difficulties, including very limited laydown space for materials and the need for complex sequencing around underground plumbing, conduits, and overhead works. The customer required a robust system that could be smoke-tested to ensure zero air leakage prior to pouring the base slab.

The Titan Solution

Titan was engaged to provide a simplified yet robust solution that could be installed within the condensed timeframe. Titan supplied and installed Stego’s Drago Vapor Intrusion Wrap system, a specialized liner designed to block hydrocarbon permeation. 

To provide the required cushioning and protect the vapor barrier from subgrade irregularities, a 10oz geotextile was installed beneath the barrier.

To ensure the system’s integrity around numerous building penetrations, Titan utilized a comprehensive suite of components. The Drago liner seams were overlapped by 12 inches and sealed with Drago SealTape. For difficult pipe clusters or areas with limited access, the team applied Stego Mastic—a trowel-grade material that bonds the liner to plastic, steel, and concrete—to create a homogenous, leak-proof seal. The liner was mechanically terminated to all grade beams using plastic termination bars and 304SS hardware for longevity, utilizing double-sided Drago TackTape as a gasket between the liner and the concrete.

Titan’s local presence was a key advantage, allowing for flexible scheduling and resource deployment that out-of-province contractors could not match. The team provided front-end support, including constructability reviews and termination details, to align all stakeholders.

Achievement

Titan successfully delivered a high-quality vapor barrier system that met the rigorous demands of the site conditions. The Drago system provided the necessary chemical resistance against the hydrocarbon contamination while adhering to the tight construction schedule. 

A major success of the project was the quality assurance process. Titan provided an in-depth quality control turnover package, documenting all smoke tests performed during various pour stages to verify the system's airtight integrity.

By utilizing local resources and materials that were readily available, Titan avoided the delays and higher costs associated with alternative systems requiring outside contractors. The client expressed high satisfaction with Titan’s support, production rate, and ability to seamlessly coordinate with other trades to maintain the project workflow.