Page 341 - Construction Waterproofing Handbook

CHAPTER 8

REMEDIAL WATERPROOFING

INTRODUCTION

Thus far, the waterproofing systems discussed have included applications for new con-
struction or preventative waterproofing. Often, however, waterproofing applications are
not completed until water has already infiltrated a building. Waterproofing applied to exist-
ing buildings or structures is referred to as remedial treatments or remedial waterproofing.
Leakage into structural components can damage structural portions and facades of a
building envelope (Fig. 8.1). In these cases actual repairs to a structure or its components
is required before application of remedial materials. This type of repair is referred to as
restoration. Restoration is the process of returning a building or its components to the orig-
inal or near-original condition after wear or damage has occurred.
With historic restoration, new waterproofing materials or systems may not be allowable.
Weathertightness then depends solely on a building’s facade to resist nature’s forces. Such
facades are typically walls of stone or masonry. Unfortunately, this type of dependence may
not completely protect a building from water damage, especially after repeated weathering
cycles such as freeze–thaw cycles.

REMEDIAL APPLICATIONS

Many systems already discussed for preventative waterproofing may be used for remedial
applications. In addition to these products, special materials are available that are intended
entirely for restoration applications. If existing substrates are properly prepared, most prod-
ucts manufactured for new installations can also be used in remedial applications following
the manufacturer’s recommendations as necessary.
As with preventative waterproofing, in remedial situations no one product is available
to solve all problems that arise. The availability of products used specifically for restoration
is somewhat limited compared to that of the frequently used products of new construction
applications. Applications and use requirements for preventative products are covered
in Chaps. 2 through 7.
Remedial application needs are determined by some direct cause (e.g., leakage into
interior areas). Restoration application needs are usually determined after leakage occurs
or maintenance inspections reveal structural or building damage. In both cases a detailed
inspection report must determine the causes of leakage or damage, and the repairs that
must be made to a substrate or structure before waterproofing. Leak detection is presented
in Chap. 13.

8.1
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