TECHNICAL CHALLENGE
Review the leakage history
Note how the building responds to weather events, such as high humidity, rain, or snow. Temperature fluctuations affect building materials, so record any correlations with moisture observations. If the leak is worse after it rains, surface runoff is the likely cause. Check joints between walls and slabs, as well as conduits. If the leak is constant, uncorrelated with rain, it may be caused by a water line, either potable or sanitary sewer. Even an adjacent excavation or infill construction can indirectly lead to leakage by causing differential settlement cracks or changing water flow.
If the leak occurs after using certain equipment in a kitchen or mechanical room, perform usage tests to identify the faulty component. If water bubbles up between the foundation wall and the slab on grade, rising groundwater levels may be the issue, or a combination of groundwater and surface runoff. Flash storms may overflow combined sanitary and storm sewers, raising the water table. Clogged or inadequate perimeter / footing drains can also contribute to the problem.
Identify the water source
A water test can tell you which type of water is leaking. If the water contains chlorine, it is potable (drinking) water, and the source is likely a plumbing leak. If the water has a high coliform count (e.g. e. coli bacteria), a sewage waste line is the problem. If the water tests negative for both of the above, it is most likely groundwater or storm water.
Rule out ambient moisture
Where there is a significant temperature differential between inside and outside, condensation—not leakage— may be the culprit. To test, secure a piece of impervious material, such as aluminum or plastic, to the wall where you have observed moisture, and wait a few days. If the sheet is wet on the side facing the wall, water intrusion through the wall surface is most likely the problem. If moisture appears on the side facing the room interior, condensation may be to blame, which can be addressed by adjusting HVAC equipment or improving ventilation.
Determine the leak location
Water is deceptively migratory, such that the spot where stains or cracks are observed can be quite remote from the site of water entry. Correlate with events. When, where, and under what conditions you have noticed signs of moisture can help determine the water access pathway.
Correlate with design>Original as-built drawings and construction specifications provide clues as to potential weak spots in the waterproofing system.
Non-destructive testing> Flood tests saturate an area, such as the backfill at a foundation wall, to generate conditions conducive to moisture penetration. Waterproofing failures can then be noted and addressed. Additives, such as dyes or scents, incorporated into the flood test water can help identify leaks that are otherwise difficult to detect.
Resolve the leak
With the likely water type, source, and location of the leak pinpointed, your architect or engineer will recommend a course of corrective action, which may include:
Drainage improvements. Storm water leaks can often be resolved by redirecting water away from the foundation. Repair areas include:
Resolve the leak. With the likely water type, source, and location of the leak pinpointed, your architect or engineer will recommend a course of corrective action, which may include: Drainage improvements. Storm water leaks can often be resolved by redirecting water away from the foundation. Repair areas include: Improperly connected leaders and gutters, Downspout extensions too close to foundation walls, Clogged roof drains and gutters, Flashing failures in pools or planters, Expansion joint failure at plazas and pedestrian tunnels, Leaking underground oil storage tanks causing membrane disintegration, Backfill settlement directing surface water to footings, Improper drainage and seals at stairways, window wells and openings, Inadequate subsurface drainage.
BLUSKY™ Products
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