WATER INTRUSION
WHAT IS WATER INTRUSION?
The uncontrolled movement of water, water vapor or moisture to areas of a building that is unwanted or undesirable. One example would be a leak in your roof or around windows and doors due to rain and moisture.
THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM
People usually call us when they can see discoloration, bubbling or bulking, and sometimes visible mold in their stucco. These are just some of the external symptoms of an underlying issue: water intrusion. By the time you see these visible symptoms, you’re likely looking at structural and building damage, rot, and microbial problems that can lead to “sick building syndrome.”
COMMON SIGNS
Water intrusion is unique in every building because of the different building materials, components, and design.
Indications of water disturbance include:
- Bubbling Paint
- Cracks on exterior walls
- Leak Stains
- Musty and Stale Odors
- Buckling Floors
Uncontrolled water intrusion into a building can originate from numerous sources.
The most common sources include:
- Roof Leaks
- Overexposure to Rain
- Broken Pipes (Potable Water, Drain Lines, etc.)
- Overwatering and Sprinklers Spraying onto the Building
- Staining/Discoloration on Walls & Ceilings
- Moisture Intrusion through the “Building Envelope” (roofing, walls, balconies, doors and windows, poor waterproofing, decks, and degraded materials)
CONSEQUENCES
CRACKS IN STUCCO
ROTTING OF FRAME
DAMAGE TO THE STRUCTURE OF YOUR HOME (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL)
MOLD GROWING FROM THE OUTSIDE INTO YOUR HOME
HEALTH HAZARDS
PREVENTION
VULNERABLE AREAS
- Windows
- Cracks
- Vents
- Expansion Joints
- Doorways
- Gutters
BEST PRACTICES
- Flashing
- Drainage Plane Material
- Three Coat Stucco Layer
- Elastomeric Paint
- Weep Screeds
- Sealing