Page 36 - Construction Waterproofing Handbook

1.18 CHAPTER ONE
of all the issues raised in Chaps. 1 through 3 that should also be addressed in residential
waterproofing.
Chapters 5 through 7 highlight ancillary envelope practices including sealants, expan-
sion joints, and admixtures that are often used to waterproof building envelopes. The pre-
ventive waterproofing systems in Chaps. 1 through 7 are then supplemented by a
presentation on remedial waterproofing covering restoration systems available to repair
failed envelopes or existing envelope problems.
Chapter 9 has been added in this edition to discuss the subject of mold, particularly in
residential construction, and its relationship to waterproofing. Specifically, that leakage
must be present for mold to form and fester. Thus, mold is in itself evidence of water infil-
tration that must be corrected through the principles presented in this manual.
Chapter 10 presents a detailed discussion on terminations and transitions, the actual
most important step in putting together of a successful envelope. Chapter 11 furthers this
discussion by covering life cycles, quality and maintenance issues of envelopes to prevent
unnecessary 99% and 90%/1% principle problems. Chapter 12 presents detailed coverage
of testing envelope components before construction. Chapter 13 presents methods to deter-
mine and pinpoint the cause of water leakage. Chapter 14 discusses safety issues involv-
ing waterproofing materials including VOC requirements.
The manual then includes two important resource chapters. First, Chap. 15 presents a
series of guide specifications for commonly used waterproofing methods used in new con-
struction. Then Chap. 16 has been updated for use as an in-depth resource guide to avail-
able waterproofing material and system manufacturers, building associations, and other
resources to further assist the reader in gathering sufficient information to successfully
complete any waterproofing installation or repair that might be encountered.

SUMMARY

While this manual is structured to discuss the various waterproofing systems individually,
they should always be regarded as one component in a series of envelope elements.
Remember, no matter how good a material is used, a building envelope will succeed only if
all components act as a cohesive unit. One weak detail on an envelope can cause the entire
facade to deteriorate and allow water penetration to interior spaces.