Page 445 - Construction Waterproofing Handbook

CHAPTER 11

LIFE CYCLES: QUALITY,
MAINTENANCE, AND

WARRANTIES

INTRODUCTION

The success of any waterproofing system depends not only on the initial application, but
also on the in-place conditions encountered after installation. The successful ability of the
envelope to remain watertight over its useful life expectancy is referred to as its life cycle.
Any waterproofing system or building envelope subjected to life-cycle conditions that
exceed the intended use of the product will result in failures and water infiltration; for
instance, sealant joints that are subjected to expansion due to thermal movement that
exceeds the capability of the material or the parameters of the joint design.
The majority of the Construction Waterproofing Handbook addresses the processes
involved in successfully applying waterproofing systems and integrating them with other
components of the building envelope. However, once successfully installed the systems
must be properly maintained for the envelope to operate optimally throughout its life cycle.
This chapter addresses the issues that can affect the performance of waterproofing products
and the overall building envelope, including

● A contractor’s quality performance
● Product and system manufacturers’ quality
● In-place maintenance
● Waterproofing warranties
The last becomes important only if the other three have not prevented a leakage or fail-
ure problem. As important as it is to have effective quality processes throughout envelope
design and construction, a building owner should recognize the protection, or lack thereof,
provided by their warranty.

CONTRACTORS

Regardless of the quality, performance characteristics, and cost of a waterproofing system,
the systems are only as effective as the caliber of installation. Even the best systems may
prove worthless or ineffective if not installed and transitioned properly into other envelope
systems.
Considering that most construction systems are field-manufactured, it is mandatory for
properly trained mechanics and competent contractors to complete installation of any

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