Waterproofing integrity for your building envelope.
Keep your entire property dry, from foundation to roof, with Schaefer Waterproofing’s comprehensive protection systems.
Why do building envelopes leak?
Building envelope failures are a common problem, often leading to structural damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. Understanding why the building envelope leaks is essential for preventing water intrusion and maintaining the long-term integrity of your building.
Poor design
Inadequate planning of critical junction points, flashing details, and drainage systems during the design phase is a main cause of leaks. Poor design creates vulnerabilities that lead to water intrusion.
Material failure and deterioration
Sealants, membranes, and waterproofing materials naturally degrade over time due to UV exposure, thermal cycling, and weather conditions. Aging materials develop cracks, lose adhesion, or become brittle, creating pathways for water to enter.
Building movement and settlement
Normal building movement from thermal expansion or structural settling can cause rigid waterproofing systems to crack or separate. These stress-induced failures often occur at vulnerable points where different building materials meet.
Improper installation and workmanship
Even the best waterproofing materials will fail if not installed properly and according to manufacturer specifications. Common installation errors include inadequate surface preparation, poor application, and failure to properly seal penetrations.
Building envelope waterproofing lifespan varies significantly depending on the material and system used. Some sealants might only last five years, with good quality and well installed membrane lasting 25 years or more.
Why you should care
Building envelope leaks are one of the most serious and costly problems property owners face. Getting on top of water intrusion early can save thousands in repairs while protecting your investment and occupant safety.
Structural damage = costly repair
Water infiltration causes severe structural damage including rotting wood framing, corroding steel, and deteriorating concrete. Repair costs can lead into hundreds of thousands of dollars as damage spreads throughout the structure.
Health risks
Moisture intrusion creates ideal conditions for mould and bacteria growth, triggering respiratory problems and allergies for occupants. Poor indoor air quality from water damage can make your building unsafe until extensive remediation is completed.
Reduced property value
Buildings with water intrusion problems suffer significant decreases in market value and become difficult to sell or lease. Insurance companies may deny claims, increase premiums, or refuse coverage for properties with documented envelope failures.
Increased energy costs
Water infiltration compromises insulation and forces heating and cooling systems to work harder, increasing energy bills. Moisture can also damage electrical systems and equipment, leading to expensive emergency repairs and replacements.
Spot the warning signs
Early detection of building envelope problems can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and prevent serious health hazards. Watch for these key warning signs that indicate your building’s waterproofing system may be failing:
Visible water stains and discoloration: Water stains on ceilings, walls, or around windows are clear indicators of moisture penetration through your building envelope. These brown, yellow, or dark patches often appear after rain or in areas where water has been infiltrating over time.
Musty odors: Black, green, or white mold spots on surfaces, along with persistent musty smells, indicate ongoing moisture problems within your building. These signs often appear in corners, around windows, or in areas with poor ventilation.
Damaged interior finishes: Paint bubbling or peeling on walls and ceilings suggests moisture is penetrating from behind the surface. Warped flooring, damaged drywall, or deteriorating trim work are also common signs of water intrusion.
Condensation issues: Excessive condensation in areas where it shouldn't occur, such as on walls away from moisture sources, around building penetrations, or condensation that appears consistently in the same locations indicate your building envelope isn't properly controlling moisture.
Additional signs to watch for: Soft or spongy plaster, windows fogging between panes, moss growth on exterior surfaces, cracked foundation walls, loose flashing, or unexplained utility bill increases.
The Schaefer solution
Schaefer Waterproofing ensures your building envelope receives comprehensive, long-lasting protection against water intrusion. Our systematic approach combines expert assessment, quality materials, and meticulous installation to deliver waterproofing solutions that stand the test of time.
1.
Assessment and solution design
We inspect the existing building envelope to identify all potential water entry points, assess current conditions, and develop a comprehensive waterproofing strategy based on building type, climate, and exposure conditions.
2.
Waterproofing system selection
We select appropriate waterproofing materials based on area, application required, and substrate. These could include repointing of brick walls, applying sealers or impervious coating on walls. Factors such as expected lifespan and budget are taken into consideration.
3.
Surface preparation
Surfaces are cleaned and any structural defects, cracks, or damaged areas in the substrate repaired. If repointing, deteriorated mortar and loose debris and dust is removed. We ensure any concrete has fully cured before applying waterproofing, to prevent trapping water inside.
4.
Waterproofing system installation
Proper drainage systems are installed, if needed. If repointing, joints are filled with new mortar using specialised tools. The substrate is primed and the chosen sheet or liquid waterproofing membrane is applied. Wall sealer is applied using a low-pressure sprayer or brush/roller.
5.
Penetration and detailing
We install flashing around wall roof-wall and wall-wall connections, windows, doors, and penetrations. All joints, gaps, and penetrations are sealed with appropriate sealants to create continuous water barriers.
6.
Inspection and testing
The waterproofing system is tested, a final inspection of all details is carried out, and a maintenance schedule is provided for ongoing protection and performance monitoring. For extra assurance, we offer independent third-party leak detection testing.
7.
Project handover
We provide end-to-end project management, coordinating seamlessly with other trades. Following application, all work is documented with photo evidence and a detailed installation report.
Is your building envelope compromised? Book a call!
Protect your building from costly structural damage, health hazards, and property value loss caused by water intrusion. Contact Schaefer Waterproofing today for a friendly, informative chat and ensure your building stays safe, dry, and fully protected.
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