Project Examples

Real Cases

Examples of different waterproofing and insulation situations and how they were approached

Residential terrace showing water damage and deteriorated waterproofing membrane
Case Study

Residential Terrace Restoration

Situation

A residential property in Frías experienced recurring water infiltration through a second-floor terrace. Interior ceiling stains appeared after each significant rain event. The existing waterproofing membrane showed multiple areas of deterioration and blistering.

Assessment

Visual inspection revealed membrane failure at multiple locations. Moisture testing confirmed water presence in the substrate beneath the membrane. The drainage system functioned properly, but the waterproofing layer no longer provided adequate protection.

Approach

Complete removal of the failed membrane system. Substrate repair where water damage had occurred. Installation of new liquid-applied waterproofing membrane in multiple coats. Addition of UV-resistant top coat for extended durability. The project required three days of dry weather for proper curing.

Case Study

Commercial Building Thermal Improvement

Situation

A commercial building in central Frías had high cooling costs during summer months. Thermal imaging revealed significant heat gain through the roof assembly and several thermal bridges at structural connections.

Assessment

Infrared inspection identified areas of missing or inadequate insulation. The roof assembly had minimal thermal resistance. Structural penetrations created continuous thermal bridges. The building envelope lacked air sealing at key transitions.

Approach

Installation of rigid foam insulation over the existing roof deck. Treatment of thermal bridges at structural penetrations with insulating materials. Air sealing at envelope transitions. The work improved thermal performance while maintaining the existing roof membrane that still had serviceable life remaining.

Commercial building roof during thermal insulation upgrade installation process
Interior wall showing moisture damage from party wall infiltration issue
Case Study

Party Wall Moisture Resolution

Situation

A multi-family building experienced moisture problems affecting units on both sides of a shared wall. Interior finishes showed water staining and material deterioration. The issue worsened during rainy periods.

Assessment

Investigation revealed the party wall lacked proper waterproofing at the exterior face. Water infiltrated through the masonry and affected interior spaces on both sides. The wall construction made exterior access challenging.

Approach

Coordination with both property owners for access. Exterior waterproofing application to the exposed portions of the shared wall. Interior drainage improvements where exterior treatment wasn't feasible. The solution required addressing both properties to fully resolve the moisture infiltration.

Common Patterns

Recurring Situations We Encounter

Certain building protection issues appear frequently. Understanding these patterns helps in early identification.

Expansion Joint Failure

Building movement causes sealant failure at expansion joints over time. This creates pathways for water infiltration. Regular inspection and resealing prevents small problems from becoming major issues. Joint design and sealant selection affect longevity.

UV Degradation

Intense summer sun in Santiago del Estero accelerates deterioration of exposed waterproofing materials. Membranes without adequate UV protection show premature aging. This factor influences material selection for exposed applications.

Inadequate Drainage

Standing water on flat surfaces indicates drainage problems. Even good waterproofing membranes perform better when water drains promptly. Addressing drainage often extends membrane service life significantly.

Substrate Movement

Cracks in concrete substrates can telegraph through waterproofing membranes. Addressing substrate stability before membrane application improves long-term performance. Flexible membrane systems accommodate some movement better than rigid coatings.

Lessons Learned

What These Projects Teach

Early Detection Matters

Problems identified early typically require less extensive intervention. Regular inspection helps catch issues before they cause significant damage. Minor repairs cost substantially less than major remediation.

Proper Preparation

Surface preparation significantly affects waterproofing performance. Rushing this phase to save time often leads to premature failure. The substrate condition matters as much as the membrane quality.

System Thinking

Waterproofing and insulation work as systems, not isolated components. Addressing one element while ignoring related issues rarely produces lasting results. Comprehensive assessment leads to more effective solutions.

Facing a Similar Situation?

Each building presents unique conditions, but understanding common patterns helps in developing appropriate solutions.

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