Water intrusion is an unfortunate reality wreaking havoc on many Florida condominiums and other multi-family structures, the extreme of which we saw during the tragic Surfside collapse in 2021. The latest updates in the investigation point to improper construction, design deficiencies and delayed maintenance as the suspected culprits. These out-of-code components and $15 million worth of delayed structural repairs were further exacerbated by water intrusion, degrading the building’s supports and other critical materials.
This tragedy prompted Florida legislators to create Milestone inspections and Structural Integrity Reserve Studies to ensure condos three or more stories did not make the same mistakes. Whether or not your community falls within this guideline, it’s crucial to recognize the need for proper waterproofing and act accordingly to prevent such structural deficiencies.
Why is Waterproofing Important?
Waterproofing is an essential step in the repair or replacement process to safeguard the integrity of your building. It prevents water from penetrating the building envelope, the essential exterior elements that keep the interior safe and dry.
The building envelope consists of:
- Roof
- Windows
- Stucco/wood siding
Beyond the building envelope, every exterior element of your building should be protected from water intrusion, including your stairways, landings and balconies.
Without proper waterproofing, these elements will enable moisture to seep into the building components, damaging the materials and allowing water into the interior of your units. Not only is the result of this water intrusion costly to repair, but it’s often a premature use of a community’s reserves. Moisture accelerates the rate of deterioration, requiring an urgent fix of the issue long before any repairs were likely budgeted.
Waterproofing vs. Painting
While painting may seem like a quick fix, there’s significant differences between waterproofing and painting – and the benefits they provide.
Painting enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property but provides no moisture control. On its own, painting will only last a short time before the building needs to colored again. Plus, many manufacturers will void their paint warranty if proper waterproofing protocols are not followed.
Waterproofing is not just about applying a color to the exterior; it involves protecting every component of your building envelope. Buildings are built with many types of material such as wood, metal and cement. These materials expand and contract at different rates. Waterproofing is the right preparation and knowledge to blend these materials together. This comprehensive approach minimizes the risk of water intrusion and its detrimental effects. Plus, it pairs well with painting, providing you with both function and beautification.
Why Expertise Matters
In our Florida climate, water is inescapable. Waterproofing requires a thorough knowledge of moisture control and building science to ensure the longevity of your building. A properly waterproofed building will not only protect against water intrusion but will also manage moisture within the component systems. If properly managed, moisture is allowed to escape from the building, rather than seeping into the materials and causing further damage.
With over 40 years of experience in structural integrity and waterproofing, we understand the importance of thorough protection. Our CEO is a Certified Moisture Control Consultant, one of three in Florida and one of ten in the United States. This certification requires intricate knowledge of building science, moisture control and structural drying – and demonstratable field experience in these principles. It is only one of two moisture control certifications to receive third-party accreditation from the Council for Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards.
This certification underscores our commitment to excellence in moisture management. Our licenses and certifications in five key industry areas make us uniquely qualified to care for your community.
By prioritizing waterproofing on every aspect of your buildings, you can safeguard your reserves and minimize the impact of water damage. Don't wait until it's too late; invest in waterproofing today and secure the future of your building.
