When it Rains, it Leaks: Why Waterproofing is Imperative

Southern California property managers and owners have been experiencing a drought for the past six years. During that time, waterproofing may not have seemed so necessary. But when the rains begin or rivers flow, the need becomes obvious.

Leaking roofs, windows frames, joints between concrete panes, and decks on terraces, can become victims of rainfall. Over time, the original vinyl around windows shrinks, gaps form in structures, roofing membranes crack, peel and pull away from edges. Sometimes, the materials used in original construction may be beyond their live span.

Why waterproof your building?

• Windows and roofs that leak can lead to mold problems, hazardous to occupants
• Water and moisture can damage interior walls
• Balconies and terraces are particularly prone to damage as water can sit on flat surfaces for long periods of time
• Water that enters an office can not only damage drywall, carpeting and other materials but also tenant property like computers, office furniture, paperwork, etc.
• Better tenant relations
• Saves money – do repairs before serious damage occurs

When is a good time to waterproof your building?

Before serious damage is done.

Says Karim Lopez, HSG Waterproofing Project Manager, “I had one building owner whose tenant, a bank, rented two floors. Every year, the offices would leak and many documents and some electrical equipment were damaged. At each inspection, I recommended to the owner that she wet-seal the entire building but she held off. Finally, the tenant informed the landlord that they were going to leave. The building, six stories, was finally wet-sealed and the tenant decided to stay. Because the owner delayed the repairs, she ended up spending more money over the four years than if the entire building was remediated in the first place.”

What can property owners and managers do?

• When it rains, observe and mark any leaks; leaks may “travel” so an area of up to 15’ around the leak needs to be examined

• Have your building inspected – HSG will check roofing, wall system, balcony coatings, and or parking structure walls

• Fix early – before leaks can cause major damage and major construction/restoration needs to be undertaken

• Though you may not actually have a leak, inspect and repair existing caulking and or coatings to avoid full-blown repairs

HSG Waterproofing Services:

• Building (curtain wall) inspection
• Window wet-sealing
• Roof repair of coatings – re-coat with elastomeric “green roof “(white heat-reflective surface) that will save energy and prevent leaks
• High-traffic coating for parking structures
• Subterranean coating and epoxy injection

HSG provides: Waterproofing | Metal & Curtain Wall Restoration | High-rise Window Cleaning | High Pressure Cleaning | Bird Control Installation |Glass Scratch Removal | Denka Lift Rental and Repairs | OSHA Roof Rigging Requirement & OPOS Consulting

Established in 1980, HSG promotes safety, knowledge and training of its staff and superior customer service and communication. For more information, visit HSG Inc. or call: 323-733-8552.